The Pacific Union Conference Department of Education recently welcomed Martha L. D. Havens as its new associate director for elementary education. Havens comes, most recently, from the Southeastern California Conference where she worked as the associate for curriculum and instruction.

“Today's teachers are extraordinary people and skilled professionals. They have to be,” says Havens. “The Christian teacher is there not only to provide the educational tools that will help the students to succeed, but also to model a life style that will inspire and change lives. That is what true Christian education is all about.”

Havens, a veteran educator with 35 years of experience, has taught in classrooms, trained teachers, principaled schools and led from conference offices. She slips consulting jobs and speaking appointments into her “spare” time, and even worked as an administrative assistant in the Colombian Embassy in Beijing, China.

“I love to travel and live abroad,” Havens says. “My husband and I have been able to do so, thanks through our involvement in education and with ADRA International. In my moments of relaxation I love to be with family, children, animals and painting. Given my choice, I’m on the back of a horse or in a waterfall in South America or sailing the Caribbean with Doug.”

“Martha Havens has been a respected member of the leadership team in our union for a number of years,” said Kelly Bock, director of education for the union. “She brings a wealth of experience in elementary school teaching, site administration and conference leadership.”