Berit von Pohle did not intend to follow her father’s footsteps. Von Pohle’s father, an educator, had taught at various levels within the Seventh-day Adventist educational system for more than 40 years. Growing up in the home of an avid educator, she tried to avoid education for her own profession.

“I tried hard not to become a teacher, but when I was a senior at Rio Lindo Adventist Academy, I saw a display during college days at Pacific Union College that pushed me back toward education,” said von Pohle. “Once I decided, the mission was clear and I’ve never looked back.”

Rather, von Pohle has continued to progress in her professional track. After graduating from Rio, she received her bachelor’s degree in business education from Loma Linda University and subsequently a master’s degree in counseling and guidance. She then earned her doctorate in educational administration from La Sierra University.

Beginning in April 2005, von Pohle will serve as the new Northern California Conference education superintendent. Currently, she is the principal of Columbia Adventist Academy in Battle Ground, Wash.

“Berit has been at CAA for the past nine years, during which she has been a real leader with the teachers and students,” said Ed Tilloston, vice-principal of CAA. “One of the most significant things that Berit has contributed to is the spiritual environment of CAA, which has led to an overall positive atmosphere on campus. We’re really going to miss her when she’s gone, but we wish her the best in where she’s going.”

As an educator, von Pohle stresses not only the importance of education, but also vision. “My vision for Seventh-day Adventist education has at its core two major components. First, it is one of the essential ministries of the church at all levels, and second, it must glorify God through its excellence.”

In order to make her vision tangible, von Pohle believes that the conference office of education must assume a vital role. “The conference office of education serves as a bridge between the school system (church) as a whole and what takes place at the desk of each student,” said von Pohle.

Looking ahead, she is anticipating “the challenge of a new way to minister to kids” and is excited about her transition to California. “Following Dave Escobar is an honor,” she said. “I’m an alumnus of Rio Lindo, and in many ways, it feels like we’re coming home.”