Montemorelos University Reaffirms Biblical Foundation After 52 Years, Renewing Vision and Mission

Montemorelos University President Ismael Castillo (right) reports on the institution’s enrollment, plans, and infrastructure during the Board of Trustees meeting in Miami, Florida, United States, on May 5, 2025, while Pastor Elie Henry (middle), president of the Inter-American Division and chair, and Joel Sebastian (left), vice president of finances of Montemorelos University listen in. [Photo: Libna Stevens/IAD]

May 15, 2025 | Miami, Florida, United States | Laura Marrero and Libna Stevens, Inter-American Division News

Montemorelos University’s Board of Trustees reaffirmed its commitment to Bible-based education on May 5 during its bi-annual meeting, approving key strategic initiatives that will guide the institution’s future—exactly 52 years after it was officially recognized as a university in Mexico. Montemorelos University is a Seventh-day Adventist institution located in Montemorelos, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, overseen directly by the Inter-American Division (IAD).

The Board of Trustees serves as the university’s highest authority in matters of strategic direction and institutional leadership. It is chaired by Pastor Elie Henry, president of the IAD, with the presidents of the five Mexican Unions and the IAD executive secretary serving as vice presidents. The university’s president acts as secretary of the board. The board’s responsibilities include approving the strategic plan, monitoring its implementation, and appointing the institution’s top leadership.

Slide shows a total enrollment of 3,076 students in the first semester and summer sessions, and 2,574 in the second semester for the 2024–2025 academic year at Montemorelos University. [Photo: Libna Stevens/IAD]

Dr. Ismael Castillo, president of Montemorelos University, presented a comprehensive report on the institution’s progress, challenges, and direction. He emphasized the university’s commitment to its Adventist heritage and loyalty to biblical principles amid external pressures and evolving educational models. “It is an evangelistic task,” said Castillo, referring to the challenge of recruiting faculty trained in Adventist institutions and dedicated to the mission of Adventist education at all levels.

Among the achievements highlighted for the 2024–2025 academic year were total enrollment figures of 3,076 students in the first semester and summer sessions, and 2,574 students in the second semester, including graduate, postgraduate, and distance learning programs. He also reported that 586 first-time, on-campus students enrolled—95% of them Seventh-day Adventists—and noted the university’s international reach, with students representing 51 countries. Approximately 50% of the student body is from Mexico, with 26% coming from other countries.

Fostering a strong student experience is essential to ensuring retention and success at Montemorelos University, leaders say. [Photo: Libna Stevens/IAD]

Castillo emphasized the community impact of the university’s health model, both on and off campus, the expansion of technological platforms, and a strengthened focus on mission service and research. He noted that recent community outreach through Health-Promoting University programs has recently benefited more than 200,000 people. “This reflects Montemorelos University’s commitment to health, compassion, and mission,” he said.

During the session, board members approved several important resolutions, including a foundational theological-philosophical document that will support the 2031 Institutional Development Plan. This framework acknowledges God as the source of all knowledge and guides the university’s efforts toward its holistic mission.

The board also approved the process for developing the 2026–2031 Institutional Development Plan, which will be presented in stages during upcoming board sessions in accordance with accreditation and continuous improvement standards.

Joel Sebastian (left), Vice President of Financial Affairs, presents Montemorelos University’s 2024 financial report. [Photo: Libna Stevens/IAD]

Castillo expressed concern over a potential shortage of qualified teachers in Adventist institutions. “We need teachers—teachers like the ones who taught us. Teachers who go beyond holding a professional degree or vocational calling—teachers who view their work as a mission and are trained in the Adventist educational system,” he said.

He urged board members and church leaders to prioritize fostering teaching vocations. “Our children and youth need teachers trained in our Adventist institutions. That is frontline evangelism,” Castillo stated.

He also stressed the need for Adventist education to expand its reach, especially for Adventist children and youth. “At Montemorelos, we need to broaden that reach through technology. Many young people no longer want to complete a full degree—they want micro-credentials to enter the job market. Artificial intelligence will definitely change the way we teach,” said Castillo.

What will truly make a difference, Castillo said, is the student experience. “We must develop an experience that makes students want to come and stay. That applies to every Adventist university represented here,” he urged. This includes fostering spiritual growth, improving students’ health, encouraging research, and expanding community service.

Pastor Elie Henry (center), president of the Inter-American Division, commends Montemorelos University’s vision and mission outlined in this year’s report. [Photo: Libna Stevens/IAD]

“The world is exerting pressure,” he acknowledged, “but the institution has remained anchored in the signal of God’s Word—evident in its curriculum, its contribution to community and academic disciplines, its loyalty to the Church, and its environment as a healthy and compassionate university.”

The administrative and financial reports were well received by board members.

“There are important points in this report that call us to reflect not only on the university’s current state and achievements this academic year but also on the significant challenges ahead,” said Pastor Henry. “For all of us—members of Inter-America’s Executive Committee and Montemorelos University’s Board of Trustees—this is a call to consider how we will steward the ministry the Lord has entrusted to us, especially our responsibility to young people, who are not only the future but also the present.”

Former IAD Treasurer Filiberto Verduzco praised the clarity and positivity of the report: “We have heard a model financial report,” he said.

IAD Treasurer Ivelisse Herrera commended Montemorelos University leaders for their financial commitment and consistent philosophy, which continue to drive its successful growth, during the board meeting, May 5, 2025. [Photo: Libna Stevens/IAD]

IAD Treasurer Ivelisse Herrera agreed, commending the strong financial performance: “Scholarships come at a cost…but their commitment never wavers. The numbers reflect the university’s philosophy.”

As the meeting concluded, board members shared a special declaration of gratitude, marking the university’s anniversary. “As we celebrate 52 years, we reaffirm our gratitude to God for His guidance, for the achievements made, and for the challenges that lie ahead. Our international community continues to contribute with vision, generosity, and a passion to serve.”