The South Atlantic Conference Office of Education under the leadership of Kim Gaiter, superintendent, held its 2025 Educator Commissioning and Dedication Ceremony at River Oaks Campground in Orangeburg, S.C. The sacred event honored a distinguished group of Adventist educators who have dedicated a decade or more of service to the ministry of Christian education.
To qualify for shortlisting for commissioning, teachers must meet a number of rigorous criteria. These include a minimum of six to 10 years of unbroken denominational service, proven spiritual maturity, involvement in their local church, and proof of ongoing professional development. They should also be able to offer clear evidence of the integration of faith within their teaching practice, and evidence of leadership in school and church communities.
This year, the South Atlantic Conference was privileged to commission 10 exceptional educators as the 2025 Commissioning Class. Combined, these teachers have more than 130 years of service within Adventist education. Awardees are Rhyanne Carrington, associate superintendent, with 10 years of service; Khandi Cooper, M.Ed., 11 years; Gisele G. Fields, M.Ed., 12 years; Deidre Hodnett, B.A., 24 years; Yanick Lebrun, M.B.A., 12 years; Jennifer Mabry, M.Ed., 13 years; Felicia Barnard, M.Ed., 10 years; Courtney Stokes, M.Ed., 17 years; and Jennifer Wales, Ed.D. candidate, with 10 years of continuous service.
Each candidate was formally recognized and given a charge by guest presenter Nehemiah Mabry, Ph.D., and Calvin Preston, South Atlantic Conference president, to continue their ministry in education with renewed purpose, spiritual passion, and unwavering faith. Their commissioning stands as a testament to their impact and commitment to the sacred mission of Adventist education. Leaders reminded attendees that Adventist education is more than academics; it is a sacred calling to shape lives for eternity. The ceremony served not only as a personal milestone for the educators honored, but as a recommitment by the Church to the high calling of Christ-centered education.
As the Church navigates a rapidly changing world, this ceremony echoed a powerful truth: Now more than ever, Adventist schools need committed, spiritually grounded educators who see their work as a ministry and mission. Through their example, the Commissioning Class of 2025 embodies the Church’s commitment to “educate for eternity,” equipping students not only for success in this life, but for the life to come.
South Atlantic | August 2025
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