IATS Continues Presidential Search, Affirms Growth and Stability

Seminary Board reaffirms stability and strategic direction as presidential search process resumes.

November 10, 2025 | Miami, Florida, United States | Libna Stevens, Inter-American Division

The Inter-American Adventist Theological Seminary (IATS) board closed its recent session confirming that the search committee must reconvene after unexpected developments derailed an initial candidate recommendation for president. Pastor Abner De los Santos, president of the Inter-American Division and chairperson of the board underscored that Dr. Efraín Velázquez will continue serving as IATS president until a successor is officially appointed, even as his employment transition to the U.S. proceeds through April.

“Everything seemed on track, but something happened in recent days and we cannot present a report… the recommendation has practically fallen through, and we must look for another option,” De los Santos said. “Dr. Velázquez will continue in his functions until his successor has been named and takes the position.”

The board also voted to postpone other administrative appointments during the boards and mid-year meeting to avoid governance gaps during the transition.

Enrollment Surges

Velázquez noted IATS has more than doubled enrollment—from roughly 300 students a few years ago to more than 700 with nearly the same funding.

“We have tried to stretch every resource like the widow’s oil—like Jesus multiplying the loaves and fishes,” he said. He appealed to union leaders: “If you want lasting change in your union,  support your pastors. Some cannot afford housing, meals, or travel. That is very sad.”

Maintaining academic quality remains non-negotiable, he stressed, even as doctoral defenses and advising raise costs.

Leaders reiterated IATS mission to form missional leaders through theological education, with a recent enhancement that explicitly integrates innovation and technology. The vision commits to cutting-edge tools in theological teaching while strengthening the Three Angels’ Message.

“We prepare disciple-makers on a biblical basis, proclaiming the Blessed Hope—our Adventist DNA,” said Velázquez. “The vision is to integrate technology in theological teaching while fortifying the Three Angels’ Message.”

Academic Vice President Angel Guzmán reported 718 pastors studying across 10 campuses in three languages, with 70+ professors worldwide. Programs span professional tracks and academic tracks accredited by the Accrediting Association of Seventh-day Adventist Schools, Colleges, and Universities, as well as the Association of Theological Schools (see master’s and doctorate degrees offered by IATS).

“Our degrees carry the same standing as any U.S. institution,” Guzmán said. “We want presidents to say, ‘We’re glad we sent them.’”

Stable Financial Growth

In his financial report, Norwin Gilarte, vice president of finances and human resources, detailed current-year results showing positive operating margins, emphasizing that reserves are committed and restricted to approved projects, safeguarding long-term stability.

IAD Treasurer Ivelisse Herrera reported that IATS remains financially stable and continues to operate despite significant enrollment growth. “With growth come challenges, yet the seminary’s operation is sustained and stable,” she said, adding that a recent review by the finance commission confirms IATS is on sound footing. She also praised the efficiency of a small administrative team: “It is impressive what about a dozen people accomplish on behalf of the Division.”

The board also reviewed progress in strategic planning and technology integration. A data-driven planning platform now centralizes institutional reporting, while a virtual reality Bible learning project, Theoverse Legacy, continues to draw interest from Adventist and non-Adventist institutions alike.

I addition IATS voted on its new logo and also approved celebrating IATS’ 30th anniversary with a theological symposium June 2–6, 2026, supported by the Biblical Research Institute.

A formal vote of gratitude was extended in recognition of Ketlie Henry’s more than 20 years of dedicated service as registrar, and the board also honored Pastor Elie Henry for his years of leadership as chair of the IATS Board—acknowledging their enduring commitment and support to the seminary.