In a momentous event that captivated the audience with profound insights and wisdom, Ella Smith Simmons, a former General Vice President of General Conference in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, delivered the Inaugural Public Lecture at Adventist University of Africa. The lecture, was held at the University’s prestigious campus on Wednesday, April 24, 2024.
Ella Smith Simmons, known for her remarkable contributions to the global Seventh-day Adventist community, took centre stage as she shared her thoughts on the theme “What difference does it make? Leading for positive societal transformation.” Dr Ella reminded the audience of the urgent need for unique leadership in Africa, which is underscored by a myriad of challenges, from climate change and food insecurity to healthcare accessibility and peacekeeping efforts. Dr Simmons underscored that leadership for positive change in society requires individuals who are committed to social transformation, well-educated, competent, ethical and who have spiritual intelligence. She made a rallying call for social change leadership that rests on the principles of social responsibility, collaboration, inclusivity, and values-driven decision-making, aiming to create a better world for all.
The Adventist University of Africa (AUA) was challenged to bring about positive sustainable change in the societies it influences through leadership development, emphasizing relevance and excellence in research, teaching, and service. The university was tasked to ensure that its teaching, research, and social action are informed by realistic views of future challenges and breakthroughs, balancing the need for continued social change with cautious optimism. By embracing the integration of faith and education, AUA was called to provide leadership for service and address public needs while upholding high standards for ethical direction and social contributions.
Her words resonated with the audience, inspiring all present to reflect on the importance of nurturing and developing future leaders who will carry forward the mission and values of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
The event was graced by the GC Vice President and AUA Council Chair, Elder Geoffrey Mbwana, AUA Chancellor, Dr Harrington Akombwa, GC Education Director, Dr Lisa Beardsly-Hardy, GC Associate Treasurer, Elder George Egwakhe, and ECD President, Dr Blasious Ruguri, among other University Council members, a representative from the Commission of University Education-Kenya as well as faculty, staff and students of the University. Elder Mbwana commended Ella Smith Simmons for her dedication to education and leadership development within the Adventist community. The University administration expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to host such a distinguished speaker and highlighted the University’s commitment to foster excellence in education and research.
The representative from the Commission of University Education-Kenya praised the deliberate efforts by Adventist University of Africa to effect positive societal transformation and challenged the University to increase a broader reach for a wider impact.
The faculty and staff of Adventist University of Africa were deeply inspired by Ella Smith Simmons’ lecture, with many expressing their admiration for her vision and leadership in advancing education and mission-driven work within the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Dr Simmons is the first woman elected general vice president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and completed three full terms and a two-year extension before retiring in 2022. In her service she provided leadership in education, administrative consultation, coaching and evaluation, with spiritual support to Church leaders world-wide. She advised three General Conference departments, chaired the Seventh-day Adventist International Board of Education (IBE), the Board of Trustees of the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS) and the University Council (Board) of the Adventist University of Africa (AUA). In addition, she served as vice chairperson to the International Board of Ministerial and Theological Education (IBMTE), the Adventist Accrediting Association (AAA), and the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) and as member on numerous administrative and ministry-based committees.
Ella is married to Nord Simmons, a retired high school teacher and electrical contracting business owner. They have two sons who are educators, two daughters-in-law, a granddaughter, two grandsons, and two great-grandchildren.
As the event came to a close, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and a shared commitment to positive societal transformation in their places of influence. Ella Smith Simmons’ inaugural public lecture will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on all those who were fortunate enough to be present. The public lecture will be held annually to serve as a beacon of inspiration for the future of governance and leadership within the Seventh-day Adventist community and the world.
Article and photos by
Janet Oyende-Kariuki
AUA Marketing and PR Office
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