WASHINGTON ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY RESPONDS TO PANDEMIC CHALLENGES WITH EDUCATION PROGRAM RELAUNCH

TAKOMA PARK, Md. — Washington Adventist University (WAU) has announced the relaunch of its education program in response to challenges amplified by the 2020 pandemic. Dr. Andrew Smith, Chair of the Department, provided insights into the revamped initiative.

Dr. Smith is a seasoned educator with diverse experience across several institutions. Currently, he has recently been re-appointed as the Chairman of Education at WAU. In this new role, he oversees the education department while also instructing various courses, both business and education-related, at the university. Previously he was an Instructor at Hartland College in Rapidan, VA, teaching future educators. He served as the Interim School Principal at Hartland Day Academy, guiding the teaching staff and overseeing administration. His experience also extends to teaching multiple subjects for grades 4-12 at the Orange County School Board, VA, and holding lecturer roles at universities in Texas and Georgia. Dr. Smith’s varied roles in education highlight his commitment and expertise in the field. 

The pandemic’s aftermath led to a noticeable reduction in faculty availability. “In revisiting the program, our discussions with the Maryland Higher Education Commission emphasized elementary education,” remarked Dr. Cheryl Kisunzu, WAU’s Provost.

Dirk Whatley, Vice President of Enrollment, expressed his aspirations for the revitalized program. “Our goal is to enroll 40 new students, particularly for the Adventist system,” he highlighted.

Shedding light on the relaunch, Dr. Smith emphasized, “The pandemic saw a decline in teaching professionals. We aim to bolster this by focusing on training teachers, especially tailored for the Seventh-day Adventist faith.”

The refreshed curriculum includes new additions like “Introduction to Teaching” and “Curriculum and Instruction.” This program uniquely interweaves faith-based teaching and offers internships near the capital and with various Adventist organizations.

The reception has been positive so far. “We’ve received numerous inquiries from educators in Adventist schools interested in our online offerings,” shared Smith.

Enrollment requirements remain unchanged, but WAU continues its strong affiliation with local school boards and Adventist entities.

Prospective interns can expect opportunities at affiliated schools, catering to both Adventist and broader public institutions.

Promotion of the relaunch posed challenges. Dr. Smith noted, “Our main hurdle was raising awareness. We’re leveraging various platforms, especially social media, to get the word out.”

The program’s longevity strategy encompasses consistent enrollment growth, potential donations, and scouting for grant opportunities.

Dr. Smith emphasized the significance of regular feedback for the program’s evolution. “We’ll heavily lean on the Teacher Advisor Council to ensure our program remains current and efficient.”

Former students from the initial program were transitioned seamlessly. WAU is geared up to welcome a fresh cohort in Spring 2024.

For more details on WAU’s relaunched program, interested parties can contact the university’s admissions department at 301-391-4000, or visit their official website here.