Dr. Edwin Hernández Appointed New President of Antillean Adventist University in Puerto Rico
22 January 2024 |
Antillean Adventist University in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico has announced the retirement of its current president, Dr. Myrna Colón, and the appointment of Dr. Edwin Hernández as her successor, effective July 1, 2024.
Dr. Colón, who served as president for two terms, totaling eight years, has been lauded for her extraordinary service and commitment to the university, having been the first female president of a higher education institution in Puerto Rico. Her tenure, spanning 1996-2001 and 2022-2024, has been marked by perseverance, dedication to innovation, and exemplary servant leadership.
Pr. Luis A. Rivera-Maldonado, President of the Board of Trustees, expressed gratitude for Dr. Colón’s contributions, noting her role in closing a historical chapter at Antillean. “Dr. Colón is a high-caliber professional who has become a model of Christian service,” he said.
The incoming president, Dr. Edwin Hernández, currently the Executive Director of the Louisville Institute in Kentucky, is set to bring a wealth of experience to his new role. He has previously led AdventHealth University in Orlando, Florida, and his academic and leadership background is seen as ideal for guiding Antillean into a new era of growth and excellence.
“I am honored and excited to join the Antillean Adventist University community,” said Dr. Hernández. “My passion for Christian education and commitment to academic excellence align perfectly with the university’s mission and values.”
Dr. Hernández, an ordained pastor of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, has had a distinguished career at prestigious institutions such as Notre Dame University, Doug & Maria DeVos Family Foundations, The Pew Charitable Trusts, and Andrews University. His vision for Antillean includes promoting the university’s role as a catalyst in providing quality Christian education and nurturing spiritual growth alongside academic excellence.
His appointment is seen as a return to his roots, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the Puerto Rican community that shaped his early professional years. “Returning to the beautiful island of Puerto Rico has deep meaning for me,” Dr. Hernández stated.
Dr. Hernández’s academic background includes a PhD in Sociology from Notre Dame University, with a specialization in sociology of religion, and a Master of Divinity from Andrews University. He has authored numerous academic articles and books, highlighting his commitment to scholarship.
Dr. Colón’s second retirement leaves a legacy of dedication and loyalty towards Antillean, earning her the title of President Emeritus by the Board of Trustees. “We appreciate Dr. Colón’s great contributions and warmly welcome Dr. Edwin Hernández,” Rivera-Maldonado concluded, expressing optimism for the future under Dr. Hernández’s leadership.
