Mid-America Union Executive Committee Remains United in Service 

Members of the Mid-America Union Executive Committee gathered on April 23, 2026, for their regularly scheduled spring meeting to receive reports, vote ordination recommendations and vote on the proposed budget for 2026. The 37-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 presented by devotional speaker Vernon Herholdt, president of the Dakota Conference. Herholdt focused on the story of the woman Jesus healed while on His way to Jairus’ house. “God notices us when we feel unseen,” Herholdt said. “When she touched His garment, He stopped for her as if she were the only person who mattered.” Herholdt emphasized that the grace of Jesus changes everything.

During his remarks, MAUC president Gary Thurber mentioned highlights from the General Conference Spring Meeting earlier this month (including the OneVoice 2027 initiative), along with dates for important upcoming events and constituency sessions for Minnesota Conference, Kansas-Nebraska Conference and the Mid-America Union. He also shared information regarding Loma Linda University’s upcoming presidential transition. Dr. Anthony Hilliard was recently voted president elect in preparation for Dr. Richard Hart’s retirement in June.

In addition, a motion was made and passed unanimously to approve the presented agenda for MAUC’s constituency session in September. Adding items to the agenda at a later date requires a two-thirds majority vote by constituency delegates.

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 67,512 as of December 31, 2025. Morel also presented 13 names for ordination and one name for emeritus/honorary ministerial credentials—all approved by the executive committee.

At the beginning of his financial report, MAUC vice president for finance Roy Simpson introduced Karen Senecal, new undertreasurer, who began employment with the Mid-America Union on February 1 of this year. Simpson thanked her for her work and praised God for providing for the needs of the union.

Simpson reported a union-wide tithe gain of 1.98 percent YTD, as of December 2025. Simpson also presented the MAUC 2026 budget, which was unanimously approved.

Dr. Yami Bazan, president of Union Adventist University, spoke about their 2025-2028 strategic plan titled Onward. “These three years will be key pivotal years,” said Bazan. The plan has nine pillars with measurable goals including KPIs, action teams and built in accountability.

The first pillar focuses on enrollment growth. Data from eAdventist shows that 80 percent of Adventist students in Mid-America aged 14-19 are currently attending public schools. In response to this, Union’s alumni recently funded an associate chaplain whose responsibility will be to connect with these students in various ways. “Collaboration will be key,” said Bazan.

AdventHealth Rocky Mountain Region chief executive officer Brett Spenst’s report showed how the organization is deeply motivated by their mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ. This includes a commitment to their service standards, Vision 2030 (their strategic plan) and continued growth of market share.

Dr. Dexter Thomas, president of Christian Record Services for the Blind, shared how they are launching a new initiative called The Quiet Crisis, aiming to meet people at the point of diagnosis of low vision by connecting with eye care specialists. Christian Record then sends them a packet with relevant resources. Christian Record is 100 percent donor funded and 80 percent of recipients of their services are not Adventists.

Committee members were asked to complete a short survey during the presentation from the MAUC communication department led by Hugh Davis, asking for their input on topics to be addressed in the union’s OUTLOOK magazine. “Clarity builds trust,” said Davis, referring to their focus for the year. Additionally, in March the department was awarded a $10,000 Versacare grant to host a year-long communication fellowship.

The final agenda item was an announcement by Gary Thurber of his intention to retire in September. “It’s been a great run,” said Thurber, referring to his tenure as MAUC president. “It will be 11 years in September…I’ve gotten to work with the best presidents, the best committees. You’ve had courage to do hard things in the face of difficulties. To do the right things. It’s just been phenomenal for me and I can’t thank you enough.” The committee responded with a standing ovation in recognition of Thurber’s leadership.

The next Mid-America Executive Committee is scheduled for November 19, 2026.