Montemorelos University Completes Leadership Team Ahead of New School Year

Governing Board confirms Judith Ayala and Rolando Vega, appoints Carlos Flores as new vice president for financial affairs.

July 29, 2026 | Montemorelos, Nuevo Leon, Mexico | Brenda Cerón and Libna Stevens, Inter-American Division News

Just days before students return to campus, Montemorelos University (UM) has completed the administrative team that will lead the institution over the next five years.

The leadership team that will serve alongside President José Luis Olmos during the 2026–2031 term was finalized on July 28, when the University’s Governing Board met in a special session in Panama City, Panama. During the meeting, Judith M. Ayala was confirmed as vice president for Academic Affairs, Rolando Vega was confirmed as vice president for Student Affairs, and Carlos Flores, was appointed vice president for Financial Affairs. All three assume their responsibilities immediately, ahead of the start of classes on Aug. 11.

When Olmos was elected president in May, the selection of the vice presidents had been scheduled for the Governing Board’s second regular meeting later this year. However, the approaching academic year and the retirement of Joel Sebastián, retiring vice president for financial affairs, prompted the Board to move the appointments forward through a special session.

Pastor Abner De los Santos, president of the Inter-American Division (IAD) and chair of Montemorelos University’s Board, said the objective was to have the new administration in place before students returned to campus.

For Olmos, assembling the leadership team is one of the first priorities of the new administration.

“Whenever we begin a new term, it is important to build a team, a team that shares the same vision and works together to accomplish the goals of that period,” Olmos said.

He added that the new administration seeks to build on the work of previous leadership teams, honor the university’s legacy, and continue developing an institution that fulfills God’s purpose.

New VP for Financial Affairs

Carlos Flores, CPA, succeeds Joel Sebastián, who is retiring after nearly 50 years of service to UM and La Carlota Hospital. Olmos expressed appreciation for Sebastián’s longstanding leadership and contributions to the institution’s development.

De los Santos explained that Sebastián had informed the Board of his plans to retire in advance. A committee composed of IAD administrators, the division’s education director, and the university president evaluated several candidates before recommending Flores to the Board.

Flores brings nearly 28 years of service within church service. For the past decade, he has served as treasurer of the North Mexican Union, following more than seven years as a conference treasurer and other financial leadership positions. Olmos said Flores’ experience will be especially valuable for a university that works closely with organizations throughout the IAD and with Adventist educational institutions around the world.

“Carlos’ experience is very important to us,” Olmos said.

Flores is also well acquainted with Adventist education. He attended Linda Vista Academy—now Linda Vista University—and later graduated from Montemorelos University. Coming from a pastoral family, he also brings a deep understanding of the Church’s educational mission, Olmos said.

Continuity in Academic and Student Affairs

The confirmation of Ayala and Vega provides continuity in two key areas of university life.

Ayala has served as vice president for academic affairs since May 2025 and helped lead the curriculum redesign approved for the new five-year term. The new academic model seeks to respond to changes in higher education while strengthening the integration of professional preparation, biblical worldview, innovation, service, and mission, university officials said.

Vega, who has served as vice president for student affairs since 2024, will continue overseeing students’ spiritual and educational experience, as well as programs supporting their well-being, holistic development, and participation in university life.

According to De los Santos, retaining both leaders strengthens ongoing initiatives and provides stability as the new administration begins its work.

“This will strengthen the university from the very beginning and provide an opportunity for an even stronger future,” he said.

With its administrative team now complete, Montemorelos University begins the 2026–2031 quinquennium focused on welcoming students in the coming days.

Olmos said the administration’s goal is to work together, honor the University’s legacy, and keep its mission at the center of every decision so the institution can become what God intends it to be while continuing to bless the church and educate young people through Adventist education.

At the close of the Board meeting, De los Santos expressed confidence in God’s continued guidance.

“We pray that God will truly bless Montemorelos University and give it the strength it needs to continue having a positive influence in Mexico and throughout Inter-America,” he said.

To learn more about Montemorelos University, its academic programs and initiatives, visit um.edu.mx