DEPARTMENTAL STAFF CHANGES

Rudy Alvir Named Associate Youth Director for South Area
Rodolfo (Rudy) Alvir-Abraham was voted Associate Youth Director for South Florida on June 11, 2013, by the Florida Conference Executive Committee and began his new position October 1, 2013. He joined Pedro Perez, Conference Youth Director responsible for the central area, and Robert Hines, Associate Youth Director for north Florida.
Rodolfo began denominational work as a district pastor in Canada’s Ontario Conference. He then served as youth director and a pastor in the Northeast Mexican Conference.
Rodolfo and his wife, Alexandra Hichez, have two children: Juan Jose (J.J.) who is in eighth grade, and Sarai Esther who is in seventh grade.
Frank Runnels Named Vice President for Education
Frank Runnels was voted Vice President for Education, March 18, 2014, by the Florida Conference Executive Committee. He replaces Arne Nielsen who recently became Director of Secondary Education and Accreditation for the North American Division.
Frank originally joined the Office of Education team in 2008, serving first as Administrative Superintendent for two years and then as Superintendent since January 23, 2011. Prior to 2008, he was Vice Principal at Forest Lake Education Center in Apopka.
Frank and his wife, Odette, have four grown children: Shana, Frank, Jelain, and Chantel who is the mother of their grandson, Christopher Dumas Bates II, and their granddaughter, Clarity Ruth.
Judy Smith Named Director of English-language Children’s, Singles’, and Family Ministries
Judy Smith was voted Director of Children’s, Singles’ and Family Ministries on February 4, 2014, by the Florida Conference Executive Committee and began her work April 1. She replaces Rhoda Burrill who has retired.
Judy is a seasoned leader/teacher with more than 20 years of experience in helping children and families grow intellectually and achieve their greatest potential. Most recently, she worked in interventional radiology nursing at Lakeland Regional Medical Center.
Judy and her husband, Kendall, have two grown children: Kendall Smith III and Kim (James) Lane who is the mother of her granddaughter, Kyndal.