The buzz around the NAD Office of Education (NADOE), right now, is, “Do you think we will have the 2023 Teachers’ Convention in person?” and “What do we need to get done ahead of time?” These are two important questions and there are so many more!

The Union Directors of Education, in our annual 2021 December meeting, took an action to change the name from NAD Teachers’ Convention to NAD Educators’ Convention. This name change better reflects the growth and inclusiveness that have transpired over decades. Another change to take note of is the desire to have the convention every 5 years as compared to the previous 6-year rotation. So, be prepared to attend the NAD Educators’ Convention, themed Something Better, in Phoenix, Arizona, from August 7-10, 2023. Not to worry, the convention site is air conditioned and the streets have misters as participants will all be housed within walking distance of the convention hall.

This event will host approximately 6,000 Adventist educators from across our territory and beyond. There will be keynote and plenary speakers, hundreds of breakout sessions, devotional, and prayer time.  In addition, more than 200 exhibitors will have on display everything from classroom supplies to curriculum and resource materials to furniture, higher education information, professional development resources, publishing materials, online educational resources, and more. This marks the single largest professional development and spiritual growth opportunity for Adventist educators as they network, rekindle friendships, learn, collaborate, gain skills, and receive resources to help them become more effective educators on their Journey to Excellence.

The NADOE is currently planning for this event in partnership with union and conference leaders. Soon, information regarding registration, hotels and travel will appear via emails, newsletters and on the NAD education website. Also, you will be able to register, or nominate someone, as a breakout speaker with the forms and protocols available to you soon.

As we approach August of 2023 let us find the time to pray with and for one another. I am not sure how many more Education Conventions we will see. Matthew 6:33 says that above all things in our lives, we should seek God, and everything else will be provided for us. Our relationship with Him is most important!

Prayers and courage,

​

Arne Nielsen, PhD

Vice President of Education

Arne Nielsen, PhD

Vice President of Education

Arne P. Nielsen believes that the real object of education, through the work of the Holy Spirit, is to transform the lives of students and “restore in man the image of his Maker …promoting the development of body, mind, and soul.”

Arne holds a PhD in Leadership from Andrews University, a Master’s in School Administration from Western Carolina University, and a Bachelor of Science from Andrews University.