That partnership continued Sept. 16, 2026, during the annual AU-LUC Professional Day, which brought Andrews education students together with conference superintendents, principals and other education professionals for worship, practical training and conversations about careers in education.
“This is one of the ways the Lake Union invests in the next generation of teachers,” said Nicole Mattson, Lake Union Conference education director. “We want students to know there is a place for them in education and to give them opportunities to learn from experienced educators, ask questions and begin building the relationships that will support them as they step into the classroom.”
The day opened with worship led by Andrews education students before moving into interactive table discussions focused on issues teachers may encounter in today’s classrooms. Topics included special education services, pastor-teacher collaboration, certification and tuition scholarships, as well as social-emotional learning and trauma.
Students also participated in simulated interviews with superintendents, principals and teachers, giving them an opportunity to practice answering questions and receive feedback from educators involved in the hiring process.
Afternoon breakout sessions explored teaching in both public and private schools and offered insight into what employers look for when hiring. A panel discussion followed with practical guidance for navigating the employment process.
The day concluded with a conversation about navigating the first year of teaching and an opportunity for students to reflect on the experience.
“I really appreciated the intentionality and engagement of all the administrators and faculty,” one student wrote in the event survey. “It felt like a safe space to ask questions and be inspired and encouraged. The enthusiasm, good conversation and networking were my favorite parts.”
Organizers said the professional day is designed to do more than prepare students for a job search. By bringing future teachers into direct conversation with education leaders, the event gives students a clearer picture of the opportunities and challenges they may encounter while helping them build professional relationships before entering the classroom.
The annual partnership also reflects a shared commitment by Andrews University and the Lake Union Conference to prepare educators for lives of service. The event draws on the principle expressed by Ellen G. White in Education: “Education prepares the student for the joy of service in this world …”
Participants included:
Lake Union Conference
Nicole Mattson, director of Education
Laura Frary, associate director/registrar
Wadzanai Bepe, special education coordinator & instructional coach
Illinois Conference
Luis Ortíz, superintendent
Janette Rodríguez, principal, Hinsdale Adventist Academy
Indiana Conference
Leona Bange, superintendent
Armando Camacho, principal, Indiana Academy
Lake Region Conference
Deirdre Garnett, superintendent
Michigan Conference
Jeremy Hall, superintendent
Brian Kittleson, associate superintendent
Girlie Aguilar, associate superintendent
Rubén Pérez-Schulz, principal, Andrews Academy
Samantha Mills, principal, Battle Creek Academy
Greg Bevier, principal, Grand Rapids Adventist Academy
Delwin García, principal, Great Lakes Adventist Academy
Benjamin Zork, principal, A.S.P.I.R.E.
Evelyn Savory, principal, Ruth Murdoch Elementary School
Roger Dunder, principal, Village Adventist Elementary School
Wisconsin Conference
Katrina Baun, superintendent
Debbie Darnall, associate superintendent
Derek Timms, principal, Wisconsin Academy
Andrews University School of Education Faculty and Staff
Anthony Bosman, dean, College of Arts & Sciences
Michael Gayle, chair, director of Teacher Education
Charity García, associate professor, director of Curriculum and Instruction Programs
Randy Graves, first year advisor
Luana Greulich, interim director of student teaching, Director of Special Education
Lori lmasiku, assistant professor, director of TESOL
Brad Sheppard, editor, Journal of Research in Christian Education
John Simon, editorial assistant, Journal of Research in Christian Education
Kirsten Baldwin, administrative assistant
Nicole Mattson serves as Lake Union Education director.