Michigan Conference Welcomes New Associate Superintendent of Education

The Michigan Conference is excited to announce the appointment of Girlie Zunega-Aguilar as the new associate superintendent of Education, effective July 1, 2024.

Her appointment was confirmed by the Executive Committee on May 21, 2024.

Aguilar brings a wealth of experience and a strong academic background to her new role. She holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education. Currently, she is pursuing a PhD in Religious Education with a focus on Campus Spiritual Leadership, which she anticipates completing in early 2025.

Her career in education includes over 10 years of international experience in South Korea and Saipan, in the Northern Mariana Islands. Upon returning to the United States, she served as a teaching principal for three years, followed by two years as a full-time principal at Scappoose Adventist School in the Oregon Conference. Most recently, Aguilar has been the Vice Principal and Development Officer at Andrews Academy in Berrien Springs, MI.

Girlie Zunega-Aguilar is married to Pastor Antonee Leo Aguilar. Together, they have a passion for collaborative ministry that bridges the school and the church. Aguilar is enthusiastic about joining the Michigan Conference family and is eager to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and support educators in their mission.

Aguilar believes deeply in the integrated mission of education and redemption, as reflected in the following quote by Ellen G. White, “the work of education and redemption are one” (Education, p. 30). Her dedication to advancing education and fostering the development of young minds is evident in her life and ministry.

We invite the Michigan Conference community to join us in welcoming Girlie Zunega-Aguilar and to keep her and her family in your prayers as she transitions into this new role.