Ivelisse Herrera Named First Female Treasurer of the Inter-American Division
14 December 2022 |
MIAMI, FLORIDA – In a special executive committee meeting on December 5, 2022, Inter-American Division (IAD) leaders voted to recommend Ivelisse Herrera for the position of treasurer, following the retirement of Pastor Filiberto Verduzco after more than 22 years of service.
According to Interamerica.org, Herrera becomes the first woman to hold such an administrative position in the 100 years since the division was officially organized in 1922.
“This is an important day, a historic day,” said Paul Douglas, treasurer of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, as he addressed the committee. “I am so delighted and applaud the administration. I will be delighted to carry this recommendation with me to the General Conference Committee on Thursday at 7:00 a.m.” Douglas said it is an important day for God’s work in the division as the church moves forward together.
“We are on the same team, and I will always be there for you,” said Douglas as he addressed Herrera. “If you ever doubt your ability to do God’s work, look to James 1:5: ‘If you lack wisdom, ask for it, and He will graciously give to you.”
Herrera’s experience spans more than 17 years of the service in the IAD office. She has most recently served as undertreasurer, with positions as associate treasurer and accountant in the IAD office before that. She is a commissioned minister and holds a master’s in business from Montemorelos University and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Dominican Adventist University.
“I accept that you considered me for this position in recognition to Pastor Verduzco,” she said. “I have been working under the supervision of Pastor Verduzco for 17 years and 4 months, and he has had a very positive influence in my life. We will work hard to continue his legacy here in the Inter-American Division so that it can continue to be characterized for its solid, stable, financial system.”
