Dr. James Upchurch, Dean of the School of Education at Olivet Nazarene University, chaired the first official meeting of the Nazarene Educators Worldwide Council. This meeting occurred October 23-26 at the King Conference Center in Kansas City, Missouri.

The council is composed of two representatives from each of these areas: public school, Christian school, homeschool, preschool/child care, university/college education departments, and global and international schools. Representatives for 2009-2013 are: James Upchurch, Cindy Alsip, Marilyn Dominick, Midge Simpson, Jan Wilton, Lance Howard, Becky Ramsey, Brad King, Janine Wilkins, Esther Swink, Tammy Condon, and Stephen Gualberto. Ex officio members are Lynda T. Boardman, Anya Motley, Beula Postlewait, and Woodie Stevens.

Dr. Upchurch and each council member shared their vision for the next four years. The council selected this purpose for the next four years: “Nazarene educators supporting educators by embracing, encouraging, and empowering each other.” The council established committees and each committee set goals for the next four years.

The council approved changes in the membership fees, including adjusted fees for student teachers and retired teachers. Yes, N.E.W. recognizes the vast knowledge and experience of retired teachers. There is a place of service for retired teachers within this organization. For information about membership, go to www.naznew.org. N.E.W. will conduct a special membership emphasis during the month of November.

In 2011, N.E.W. plans to take a group of educators on a Mission/Education Trip to do teacher training and work projects at some of our Nazarene schools in another world region. In 2008, this organization sent a group to Belize for a similar purpose. A committee is working to establish the site for 2011.

N.E.W. sends a quarterly email with articles related to educators. To obtain the NEW e-Link, contact Anya Motley at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

For questions about Nazarene Educators Worldwide, contact Dr. James Upchurch at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or Beula Postlewait at the Nazarene Education Office (birth—secondary) at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Contributed by Beula Postlewait, Executive Ministry Coordinator