Allegheny East Conference Culminates 80th Anniversary With Gala

Story by LaTasha Hewitt

The Allegheny East Conference (AEC) recently culminated the yearlong celebration of its 80th anniversary with a vibrant gala that drew more than 400 members and well-wishers from across the territory. The evening served not only as a tribute to eight decades of ministry and mission but also as a meaningful step toward the future.

A key purpose of the celebration was to advance AEC’s education fundraiser, “All for One, and One for All.” The gala generated more than $65,000 toward the initiative’s $1 million goal—an encouraging milestone as the campaign continues. Generous sponsors included Adventist HealthCare with a $10,000 gift; the Columbia Union Conference and the Living Legends Awards for Service to Humanity, each contributing $2,500; and a number of patron-level donors.

The program featured a special awards ceremony honoring individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to ministry in alignment with AEC’s five strategic pillars. Honorees included: Evangelism: Walter Pearson (posthumously); Health: Audrey Booker; Stewardship: Lawrance Martin; Youth: Daniel L. Davis (posthumously); and Education: Carol Cantu.

Four young adults were also celebrated with Emerging Leader Awards for embodying vision, excellence and a steadfast commitment to faith and community: Maxwell Browne, Elandya Howell, Gwen-Marie Davis-Hicks and Alavaro Orozco.