Shenandoah Valley Academy Welcomes Principal Becky Patrick

Story by Janel Haas Ware

Becky Patrick, a veteran Seventh-day Adventist educator with 29 years of experience, has been voted by the Shenandoah Valley Academy (SVA) Board of Trustees to serve as interim principal for the 2026–2027 school year. Patrick’s selection makes her the first female principal in the history of SVA.

Patrick steps into this role following the faithful leadership of Don Short, who has served the academy with dedication for the past 10 years.

Patrick’s connection and commitment to Adventist education runs deep. As a former boarding academy student, she has experienced first-hand the meaningful relationships that have a transformational impact on students’ learning and lives. These early experiences helped guide her calling to education and continue to influence the way she guides her students today.

Patrick has served in a variety of roles: teacher, instructional leader and boarding school principal. For 14 years, SVA has been home, where she has served as math teacher and teacher leader. She cares deeply about supporting teachers, mentoring staff and helping to create an environment where students thrive spiritually and academically.

Patrick holds a Master of Science in Education, with an emphasis in Instructional Leadership, from Southern Adventist University (Tenn.) and a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, with a minor in Biology, from the University of Louisville (Ky.).

Gabriel Madrid, Potomac Conference vice president for Education, says, “The Lord continues to bless SVA with spiritual, mission-focused leadership. Principal Patrick brings not only a wealth of experience but has already demonstrated her dedication to furthering the spiritual life, academic success and social development of SVA students.”

As Patrick steps into this important leadership role, academy staff are confident she will lead with care, clarity and a deep commitment to the mission of SVA: to educate disciples of Jesus.