Potomac Conference

Sung Kwon presents an award to Minnie McNeil as her husband, Andrew, looks on.

Story by V. Michelle Bernard / Photos by Dan Weber/NAD Communication

During the Adventist Ministries Convention in Albuquerque, N.M., North American Division (NAD) leaders recognized several longtime Columbia Union Conference leaders with Lifetime Achievement awards. 

“Our hope is that when we recognize and show gratitude to individuals who are [providing] exemplary contributions, other leaders are inspired to value excellence in their pursuits for God and His Church,” says Debra Brill, NAD’s vice president for Ministries and event organizer.

Math teacher D’Anya Brezzell (right) shares her thoughts about Kelli Raí Collins’ new devotional book.

Story by Salena Featherstone

Kelli Raí Collins has been the data specialist at Potomac Conference's Takoma Academy (TA) for five years, and is a proud parent of three: current TA student Solomon (’20), TA alum Zoie (’18) and Oakwood University (Ala.) student Mykel. Collins, a third generation Seventh-day Adventist, has always been dedicated to giving her children the Christian education she received.

Manassas students work together to catch and study bugs.

Story by Tiffany Doss

Catching butterflies, looking at worms under a microscope, constructing forest homes and digging in dirt happen to be part of the Virginia-based Manassas Adventist Preparatory School’s (MAPS) curriculum this year. As part of a pilot program, students in kindergarten and first grade are taking time to explore God’s second book of nature as part of a new forestry class.

Interview by Alexis A. Goring

Edwina Neely, a member of Potomac Conference’s Rockville (Md.) church, recently wrote Children Are Gifts, a book for parents. It includes illustrations about younger children, as well as principles that apply to parents with children of all ages.

During her 30 years of working in education, Edwina was employed as a teacher, childcare center owner and in the Potomac Conference Elementary Education Department—all of which provided the experience she needed for her book. She credits God for helping her finish the book, published by WestBow Press.

In the interview below, read more about this book and its relevant message to parents: