Montemorelos University Board Sets Presidential Transition, Approves 2031 Plan

Leaders reaffirm mission growth and innovation as Dr. Ismael Castillo will take on new Division advisory role.

November 12, 2025 | Miami, Florida, United States | Brenda Cerón and Libna Stevens, Inter-American Division News

The Inter-American Division (IAD) announced plans to begin the presidential search process for Montemorelos University, following discussions with long-serving president Dr. Ismael Castillo, during the university’s year-end board meeting on Nov. 11. Board members met in Miami, Florida, with others joining virtually.

IAD President Pastor Abner De los Santos, who chairs the university board, affirmed the strategic importance of strengthening Adventist higher education across the region. He explained that Dr. Castillo has been invited to serve as special advisor for tertiary education for the IAD, using his decades of leadership experience to support and enhance Adventist universities across the territory.

“Dr. Castillo will continue serving throughout the academic year, giving us time to prayerfully search for and appoint a new president at the next board meeting in May 2026,” said De los Santos. To ensure a smooth transition, the board voted to form a search committee including educators, division and union administrators, a lay representative, and student representatives.

Recognition of Leadership and Legacy

Leaders from across the IAD expressed deep appreciation for Dr. Castillo’s nearly 40 years of service.

“Professor Castillo has been an inspiration to many,” said Pastor Luis Rivera, president of the Puerto Rican Union. “His ministry has transcended borders, and while no one can truly replace him, we trust that God will guide the person who continues his legacy.”

Pastor Ignacio Navarro, newly elected president of GEMA Editores, added, “Dr. Castillo leaves an invaluable heritage of leadership and mission. God has blessed generations through him.”

From Cuba, Elvis Hernández, president of the Theological Seminary, noted Montemorelos University’s lasting influence on theological education. He recalled how Dr. Castillo and his team supported the seminary’s early academic development and helped students advance to graduate studies. “You have walked with us, trained us, and inspired us,” he said.

Pastor José de Gracia, president of the Panama Union, praised Montemorelos’ medical education: “Its School of Medicine is the best Adventist medical school in the world. My three children graduated there, and their degrees were fully recognized in Europe and Panama. Congratulations on 50 years of preparing missionary professionals who serve worldwide.”

Highlights of the Annual Report

Earlier in the meeting, Dr. Castillo presented his annual report, “Together We Add… Now with an Expanded and Extended Horizon,” outlining progress in academic innovation, outreach, and mission advancement.

The board approved the Institutional Development Plan 2031, including updated mission and vision statements emphasizing holistic education, global reach, and faith-centered learning. The new university motto — “Affirmed in Truth, Focused on Mission” — was also adopted.

Dr. Castillo highlighted expanded educational offerings across in-person, virtual, hybrid, and continuing education programs, as well as the “Window 15/24” initiative to connect Adventist education with youth ages 15–24 across the territory. “The horizon has expanded to serve all young people of the church through every educational modality—from university studies to lifelong learning,” he said.

Commitment to Mission and Innovation

The report emphasized Montemorelos University’s leadership in research and international partnerships, with more than 90 global agreements and strong recognition in health sciences.

“Montemorelos University contributes beyond the Inter-American Division,” said Dr. Faye Patterson, IAD education director. “It is the only Adventist university in the region with global research collaboration. I commend you for maintaining your Adventist identity amid global pressures.”

The board approved the 2026 budget with a 3% surplus, moderate tuition adjustments, and a continued focus on scholarships.

IAD Treasurer Ivelisse Herrera praised the administration’s stewardship: “All appropriations received are invested directly in student scholarships. Not a single cent is used for operations — a clear reflection of a mission-driven administration.”

The report also noted advancements in the UM Salud project, integrating teaching, research, and clinical care in health sciences, and reaffirmed the university’s ethical use of artificial intelligence under the principle “teaching from AI and upward.”

Partnerships and New Initiatives

The board voted to establish a Real Estate Development Commission to support institutional sustainability and approved transferring land where Editorial Montemorelos operates to the North Mexican Union to strengthen its publishing ministry.

“We’re inspired by the spirit with which Montemorelos fulfills its mission,” said Pastor Luis Arturo King, president of the North Mexican Union. “There is no independence here — only interdependence. The university, the clinic, and the publishing house are all part of the church.”

Looking Ahead with Gratitude and Vision

The board session concluded with reflections based on Isaiah 54:2 — “Enlarge the place of your tent… lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.”

As Montemorelos University moves toward 2031, university leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to expanding education, innovation, and mission impact across the Inter-American Division and beyond.

To learn more about Montemorelos University, its initaitives, programs and activities, visit um.edu.mx

To view a photo gallery of the Montemorelos University Board held on Nov. 11, click HERE