The 35th Society of Adventist Communicators convention brought together Christian communicators from across North America to Oak Brook Hills, Illinois, from Oct. 17-19, 2024. Focused on professional development, spiritual growth and networking, SAC serves as a nurturing space where communicators share ideas, explore new technologies and deepen connections. Its mission is to foster growth in a supportive and faith-based environment, while its vision aims to expand a global network that champions excellence in communication.
One of the most talked-about topics this year was artificial intelligence (Ai), with discussions covering its potential, ethical implications, and practical uses in church communication. “My big takeaway from this year is the good conversations around Ai and how we can use it responsibly,” said Savannah Carlson, director of Human Resources and Communication for the Minnesota Conference. “We need to be intentional about what we do with our technology, using it in the best ways possible.”
During the convention Carlson also spoke about her experience on a crisis communication panel, which offered her a chance to connect with others who shared her challenges. “I’m not an expert in crisis, but being on the panel helped me realize that ordinary people, like me, can do this work,” she reflected, hoping her participation encouraged others to face their own professional hurdles.
For Liz Kirkland, communication assistant for the Rocky Mountain Conference, SAC’s Ai sessions provided practical insights for when she works as a “one-person team.” She learned new tips and tricks to use Ai effectively as a time-saving tool, finding it especially valuable for small teams with limited resources. This sentiment was echoed by other attendees, who appreciated learning how to integrate emerging technologies to enhance efficiency and impact.
A year-long journey
Saul Dominguez, communication director for the Kansas-Nebraska Conference, emphasized that the impact of SAC doesn’t end when the convention wraps up. “The best part about SAC is actually what happens after SAC,” he said. “It’s all those connections and all the things you’ve been hearing and learning—you get to go back and start doing them. Things come out of SAC that take time to foster.” For Dominguez, the convention is just the beginning of a year-long journey of applying new insights and connecting with fellow communicators.
The convention also offered students a rare opportunity to engage with experienced professionals. Professor Lori Peckham, Communication Program director at Union Adventist University, highlighted the importance of SAC for young communicators: “Several of our students have obtained jobs and internships through their participation at the SAC convention. We plan to offer this opportunity to our students every year,” she said.
Students like Caleb Schaber, a junior at Union Adventist University, were inspired by sessions on tackling difficult topics. “I learned not to be afraid of addressing heavy subjects in my writing, even if it stirs emotions. Sometimes, that’s what’s needed to make a point,” Schaber shared.
Maximizing resources
Caleb Durant, communication director for the Iowa-Missouri Conference, also found the convention’s focus on Ai particularly valuable. Durant was eager to learn how Ai could support his work. “The biggest thing I’m taking back to my conference is how we can use Ai and other media tools to do more with fewer resources,” he noted. “We’re small, so it’s about maximizing what we can do with one person, using the tools we have.”
The event wasn’t just about learning—it was also about community. Jodi Dossenko, communication director for the Dakota Conference, described the unique camaraderie among attendees from the Mid-America Union.
“We’re not just colleagues; we’re friends. We laugh, we pray, we support each other,” she said.
This sense of family is what many find so valuable about SAC, where lasting relationships are formed alongside professional skills.
As the convention concluded SAC president Brenda Dickerson, Mid-America Union communication director, reflected on her efforts to revive the organization post-pandemic, focusing on the society’s themes of Purpose, Passion, and Partnership. Under her leadership, the board launched a monthly newsletter, bolstered student engagement, and streamlined the awards process. Dickerson expressed confidence in incoming president JeNean Lendor’s ability to build on this progress, with plans already underway for the 2025 convention in California.
Pastor Trevor Barnes, communication director for the Central States Conference, appreciated the chance to connect with thought leaders and explore the latest tools for effective communication. “I’ve enjoyed the fellowship, especially with leaders from the Mid-America Union,” he said, sharing how the sessions, including a powerful message from Elder Wintley Phipps, reinvigorated his approach to communication.
SAC’s commitment to year-round learning extends beyond the annual convention. Workshops are recorded and made available through the Adventist Learning Community, allowing communicators to access resources anytime. As Dickerson noted, communicators play a vital role in sharing the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s mission of hope and wholeness, helping people connect, grow and engage with their communities through stories, videos and media.
