Antillean Adventist University Board Elects New President

Dr. Edwin Hernández will replace Dr. Myrna Colón who retires in June 2024.

January 23, 2024 | Mayagüez, Puerto Rico | Lorell M. Varela, Antillean Adventist University and IAD News Staff

Antillean Adventist University’s Board of Trustees recently appointed Edwin Hernández, PhD, as the new president of the institution effective July 1, 2024. The decision came after Myrna Colón, Ph.D., current president of the Antillean Adventist University (AAU), announced her retirement serving as head of the institution for eight years.

Dr. Hernández has been serving as executive director of the Louisville Institute in Kentucky, United States, and previously served as president of AdventHealth University in Orlando, Florida, United States.

“Without a doubt, his extensive academic and leadership career positions him as the ideal candidate to lead Antillean into a new era of growth and excellence,” said Pastor Luis Rivera, president of the Puerto Rican Union and chairman of UAA’s Board.

“Dr. Colón is a high-caliber professional who has been a model of Christian service and unwavering faith, who closes a historical chapter. She became the first president of a higher institution in Puerto Rico and led Antillean during the periods 1996-2001 and 2022-2024. While we appreciate the extraordinary contributions of Dr. Colón, we welcome Dr. Hernández, who is also an academic leader with a deep commitment to higher education,” stated Rivera.

Reacting to his new position, Dr. Hernández said: “I am honored and excited to join the Antillean Adventist University community as its president. My passion for Christian education and commitment to fostering an environment of academic excellence aligns perfectly with the mission and values ​​of the University. In collaboration with the faculty, staff, and students we will continue the legacy of the institution by providing quality Christian education.”

Dr. Hernández’s professional career highlights his work at Notre Dame University, Doug & Maria DeVos Family Foundations, The Pew Charitable Trusts, and Andrews University.

In addition, Dr. Hernández served as vice president for academic affairs of AAU during the first term of Dr. Colón’s presidency. Commenting on his vision for the university, he stated that returning to the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, the place of his roots, has deep meaning for him. “It is not just about taking on a new role, but a return to contribute to the community that shaped my early professional years,” said Hernández.  “I am very enthusiastic and committed to promoting Antillean’s role as a catalyst to promote the education of professionals with a vision deeply rooted in Christian service.

The purpose of Antillean, Dr. Hernández said, “is to nurture, not only academic excellence, but also the spiritual growth of students, fostering people with moral integrity dedicated to serving the church and society.”

Dr. Hernández holds 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 books and multiple academic articles and reports.

Dr. Colón, who in addition to working in other educational functions inside and outside the island, as president leaves a legacy of dedication and loyalty towards Antillean, which earned her to be designated as President Emeritus by the Board of Trustees, commented Pastor Rivera. “We appreciate the great contributions of Dr. Colón and extend a warm welcome to Dr. Edwin Hernández, hoping that under his leadership God will allow Antillean to continue to be recognized for spirituality, excellence and service, and the ideal place to connect, grow and share,” Rivera concluded.

Antillean Adventist University was established in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, in 1961 and offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, programs and certifications. To learn more, visit uaa.edu