During its regular spring meeting, the Mid-America Union Executive Committee voted to approve a recommendation brought by MAUC’s administrative team that lays out a leadership transition for the union’s communication department. Following the vote, current director Brenda Dickerson will become the associate director, and the current associate director/digital media manager Hugh Davis will become the new director, effective May 1, 2025. This transition of titles, originally proposed by Dickerson, will serve to model the value of succession planning and smooth leadership transitions in appointed positions.
“Brenda has faithfully led the communication team for over a decade, shaping OUTLOOK magazine, digital platforms, and strategic messaging with skill and dedication. Over the past several years, she has mentored and prepared Hugh for this role, ensuring a seamless transition that continues the strong foundation she has built,” said MAUC president Gary Thurber.
He further stated that Dickerson and Davis share the same vision and remain committed to the mission of effective and meaningful communication for the Mid-America Union. “This transition can be likened to a cross country road trip. Brenda and Hugh are both still on the same journey to the same destination. They’re both still in the front seat of the car. They’re just switching drivers, with Brenda now serving in a supporting role,” said Thurber.
Dickerson and Davis both believe the transition will be good not only for their team but for the union at large. “Succession planning is an important part of leadership, and over the past year, I have been intentional about preparing for this proposed transition,” said Dickerson. “Hugh Davis is well equipped to lead, and I am confident that this shift will strengthen our communication efforts for the Mid-America Union. I look forward to continuing to support our team in this new capacity,” she added.
Davis is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in digital media, communication, marketing and business. With over 20 years of experience working in healthcare, public education, city government, and running his own business, he brings a wealth of knowledge to his role.
Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Davis is a proud product of Adventist education. He attended Peterson-Warren Academy in the Lake Region Conference and earned his degree from Andrews University. He also holds a graduate certificate in marketing from the University of Phoenix and has completed additional courses in digital marketing through the American Marketing Association.
As an ordained elder in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Davis has over two decades of experience leading different ministries and committees. His dedication to excellence, leadership experience, and passion for good communication make him a valuable part of both the Mid-America Union Conference and the wider Seventh-day Adventist community.
Although the transition itself is of an unusual nature, the timing for it is not. With 2025 being a General Conference Session year, this is a natural point for leadership transitions. In addition, it is over a year before the next Mid-America Union Session will convene, allowing for stability between leadership cycles.
“Our team’s deep commitment to effective communication for building up God’s kingdom will continue,” stated Davis. “And both Brenda and I will still be working in our areas of strengths in the day-to-day realm.” OUTLOOK magazine will still be edited by Dickerson, including the daily work flow of producing it. The union’s social media sites and web sites will continue to be managed by Davis, with the newsletters being produced jointly.
Davis shared, “Brenda has been a wonderful example, leader, and mentor and I am grateful to have been able to serve along side her and look forward to continuing to serve with her, as well as our conference communicators. I am happy that she is not retiring but only making room for new leadership.”
“We invite everyone who will be impacted by this transition — from our office staff to our conferences to other communication colleagues and constituents — to support Hugh’s vision and leadership, pray for our ongoing success, and reach out with any helpful feedback,” concluded Dickerson.
MAUC communication team: Brenda Dickerson, Hugh Davis, Barb Engquist
—Mid-America Union News
The Mid-America Union Conference is a non-profit organization headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska, that provides administrative support for Seventh-day Adventist churches and schools in a nine-state region of the heartland.
We provide leadership and resources to six state conferences in the midwest and are connected to the North American and worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church.
