Academy Connect, an annual event uniting student leaders from academies across the Atlantic Union, took place March 12-15 at Camp Winnekeag. The gathering brought together 64 students representing all six senior academies in the Atlantic Union and one junior academy. The event’s primary focus was to strengthen students’ connection with God while providing training in various areas, including art, leadership, music, social media writing, and spiritual growth. Morning and evening worship sessions were a central highlight, offering students opportunities for reflection and inspiration.
On Sabbath, participants engaged in a community service project, packing 10,000 rice and bean meals. These meals were distributed to food pantries throughout Southern New England, demonstrating the students’ commitment to service and outreach.
Students received action cards during one of the final worship services to express their spiritual commitments. The responses were inspiring: 23 students committed to serving in their churches, 15 requested Bible studies, four expressed interest in preparing for baptism, nine indicated a desire to learn more about the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and several asked for special prayer.
One clinician expressed joy after participating in the event and praised the program’s impact. “The spirit and atmosphere were heavenly. It was like a perfect program with the added blessing of exceptional students and sponsors. Only God can do that,” they said, highlighting the food, music, devotionals, and service activity as standout elements.
This year’s clinicians and their topics included:
–Lorraine Graham, Youth Ministries administrative assistant, Northeastern Conference (Art)
–Crystal Ward, executive pastor, Spencerville Church (Leadership)
–Marlene Alvarez, education vice president, Atlantic Union Conference (Music)
–Debra Cuadro, communication director and Gleaner editor, Atlantic Union Conference (Social Media Writing)
–Nkarlo Alexander, pastor, Norwalk Church (Spiritual)
Academy Connect continues to transform students’ lives, equipping them with skills, spiritual growth, and preparation to grow God’s kingdom.
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Theresa Robidoux, education associate director, Atlantic Union Conference
