Washington Adventist University Student Elected President of Adventist Intercollegiate Association
Written by: Giovanni Torrente
TAKOMA PARK – Coming from a long break due to the pandemic, the Adventist Intercollegiate Association (AIA) gathered again on the 4th of April at Andrews University, Michigan. Washington Adventist University’s Student Association attended the event showcasing the leadership and commitment the university aims for.
The AIA is an organization that brings together the student association executive officers of all Seventh-day Adventist colleges and universities in North America for the development, training, uplifting and growth of all the student associations, providing an opportunity for networking and interaction, et cetera historically and traditionally.
Remarkably, Ali Bryan distinguished himself among everyone after being elected as President of the AIA. This is a huge accomplishment for Bryan, only a freshman at WAU, who showed an inspiring vision and leadership in committing to this ministry. He is a theology major with a minor in music and is an active participant in the honors college. Bryan has recently been inducted president of Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society and religious vice president for SA.
“I want to bring unity. Adventist schools are only a few and to leverage our experience we will have breakout rooms on Zoom to share insights. Aware of the vastity of this role, my philosophy is “in order to elevate you have to delegate”. It’s about equipping the leaders with the right help to succeed and make an impact. Time management is another huge one. “I will keep my foundations in Christ, knowing that he strengthens me and gave me this opportunity because he trusts me.”, commented Bryan.
Dr. Ralph Johnson, who serves as advisor of the sponsor for WAU students, accompanied the student and discussed with peers from other universities the nature of this new election.
Dr. Johnson shared his enthusiasm for the year ahead: “I think it’s a win for Washington Adventist University. Based on my observations and interaction, I am proud to say that the representatives from WAU stood out during the workshops for their involvement and engagement in the discussions. Their exemplary leadership promoted Washington Adventist University. Consequently, we were asked to host AIA in October 2025, and we will be preparing ourselves to welcome that event here in a year and a half. They made significant contributions to the AI experience and they grew as team leaders and I’m very happy to have been a part of that experience with and for them”
Marjorie Robinson, outgoing AIA Senior Sponsor, endorsed Ali Bryan’s candidacy, citing his amiable nature, peer admiration, and readiness to assume leadership responsibilities.
“Ali seems to be a great person for the leadership position of president for AIA,” Robinson affirms. He is amicable, admired by his peers and willing to take on this leadership role. His experience in this role will be invaluable to him as he leads this organization. His leadership will help us achieve organizational goals, such as building great leaders in our institutions by sharing leadership tools for success, encouraging partnerships and collaboration between our colleges and universities, and finally, finding and implementing ways. to serve our local and global communities.”
In conclusion, the AIA’s reassembly signifies a renewed commitment to advancing the mission of Seventh-day Adventist education, with Ali Bryan poised to lead the charge in this noble endeavor.
