The Iowa-Missouri Conference Executive Committee has voted to hire Jovannah Poor Bear-Adams as the new education superintendent. Poor Bear-Adams brings 13 years of experience in classroom teaching and school administration to the position, where she will oversee the conference’s elementary schools throughout Iowa and Missouri and serve on the leadership team at Sunnydale Adventist Academy.
“We had multiple qualified and talented candidates, but after much prayer, the personnel committee recommended Jovannah to the conference executive committee,” said conference president Lee Rochholz. “We believe she will be a great addition to the conference team and the education department. Please pray for her and her family as they make this transition.”
“As I step away from my role as superintendent, I am filled with confidence and excitement for the future under the leadership of Jovannah Poor Bear-Adams,” said Melissa Morris, current executive secretary and former education superintendent. “Her dedication and vision will undoubtedly inspire our teachers and elevate Adventist education within the Iowa-Missouri Conference. It has been a true pleasure to serve alongside such high-quality educators. I look forward to witnessing how the Lord furthers the work of Adventist education in our conference.”
Poor Bear-Adams comes to the Iowa-Missouri Conference after serving at several Adventist institutions, including Holbrook Indian School in Arizona, Dakota Adventist Academy, and Thunderbird Adventist Academy. A proud graduate of Holbrook Indian School herself, Poor Bear-Adams continued her education at Union Adventist University, where she met her husband, Zak Adams.
Her academic credentials include a master’s in School Leadership and Principal Credential through the North American Division. She is pursuing a doctorate of education in Educational Leadership with a superintendent emphasis.
Beyond her administrative expertise, Poor Bear-Adams is recognized as a public speaker who shares her testimony and advocates for Christian education at venues across the country. She encourages educators, students and churches to invest in the mission and power of Adventist learning.
The Adams family includes Jovannah, her husband Zak, who is also an alumnus of Union Adventist University, and their five children. They enjoy outdoor activities, including camping, hiking and kayaking.
The Iowa-Missouri Conference Education Department serves 13 schools throughout Iowa and Missouri, with nearly 500 students annually. The conference remains committed to providing quality Adventist education that nurtures spiritual growth alongside academic excellence.
