Members of the Mid-America Union Executive Committee gathered on April 24, 2025, for their regularly scheduled spring meeting to receive reports, vote ordination recommendations and vote on the proposed budget for 2025. The 35-member group is composed of institutional leaders, pastors, educators and lay members from all six conferences in the union.
The day began with biblical lessons drawn by devotional speaker Lee Rochholz, president of the Iowa-Missouri Conference. He reminded the group that God is our spiritual shelter, as described in Psalm 91. “Christ is our fortress—He guards our salvation,” said Rochholz. “Christ transforms our life to be more like Him. We can’t accomplish this work; we must trust Jesus to do it in our life and others’ lives too.”
During his remarks, MAUC president Gary Thurber mentioned main points from the General Conference Spring Meeting earlier this month, along with dates for important upcoming events. Information was also shared regarding AdventHealth’s recent presidential transition.
Hubert J. Morel, Jr., MAUC vice president for administration, presented the union’s statistical report, which showed a slight overall increase YTD in membership. The current membership total for the union is 66,727. Morel also presented 10 names for ordination and two names for emeritus/honorary ministerial credentials.
During the financial report, MAUC vice president for finance David VandeVere presented the audited summary for 2024 along with key operating metrics. A union-wide tithe gain of 8.83 percent YTD, as of February 2025 was also reported. Vandevere then presented the final adjusted MAUC 2025 budget, which was unanimously approved, and finished with various reports from financial subcommittees.
Sam Huenergardt, who has worked with AdventHealth for 25 years and is now chief executive officer for AdventHealth’s Mid-America Region, said he loves serving on the MAUC Executive Committee because it allows for collaboration in mission. Huenergardt’s report showcased a variety of community service projects being sponsored by AdventHealth, both locally and internationally.
Christian Record Services president, Diane Thurber, who will be retiring July 31, shared about the services provided to blind and low-vision individuals. Over 15,000 people in the United States and Canada, including 2,600 within the Mid-America territory, are currently benefiting from their holistic services. The CRS team is exploring partnership opportunities with AdventHealth, along with other community and church partnerships.
In the report from Union Adventist University shared by President Yami Bazan, she spoke of the miracles happening at Union during 2024 and 2025. “If you ever wonder if God still parts the Red Sea, or brings down the walls of Jericho, this report is for you,” said Bazan. “We have been asking, How do we help each other? How do we think differently?” Partnerships with a local bank and hospital have been instrumental in bringing specific blessings to the university this year. In addition, an anonymous donor reclassified a gift, allowing Union to pay off all loans. This will result in saving nearly $1 million a year in interest and allow a balanced budget to be presented to the university’s Board of Directors for the coming school year.
Tyrone Douglas, MAUC director of church ministries (covering six key areas), gave updates on youth, young adult, children, prayer, health and family, and Adventist Community Services ministries. The focus has been on training and mentoring new leaders of all ages in all areas of ministry.
The final agenda item was a recommendation brought by administration for Hugh Davis to serve as MAUC communication director, effective May 1, and for Brenda Dickerson to serve as associate communication director. Following an explanation of this unprecedented recommendation, the committee voted unanimously in favor of the transition of titles, originally proposed by Dickerson, that 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,” said Thurber. “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.” (Read more on leadership transition)
The next Mid-America Executive Committee is scheduled for November 20, 2025.
Photos: Hugh Davis
