Washington Adventist University to Host Third Visionaries Gala

Washington Adventist University will host its third Visionaries Gala September 20 in support of the university’s “Vision 2020, Growing With Excellence” plan. The gala is an annual event that supports “Vision 2020” to encourage and expand interaction between the university and community. The emcee for this year’s gala is Georgette “Gigi” Godwin, president and CEO of the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce since 2007.

Story by Lisa Krueger, Washington Adventist University

Lars Houmann

At each gala, four people are recognized for their exemplary leadership to the university, community, country and world while keeping with the institution’s commitment to excellence and moral leadership. This year’s honorees are:

• Lars and Julie Houmann are honored for their excellence in healthcare leadership and innovation. Lars (pictured) graduated from WAU with a bachelor’s in business administration in 1980 and is currently serving as president and CEO of Florida Hospital.
• Mikhail Kulakov Jr., WAU professor of religion, is honored for his excellence in biblical scholarship. Kulakov led a team of biblical scholars in translating an antiquated version of the Bible, dating back 130 years, into modern Russian.
• Esther Newman, CEO and founder of Leadership Montgomery, is honored for her excellence in leadership development and community service. Newman founded the organization 26 years ago and has served county and community through developing and educating its leaders.