News Story
GC Women's Ministry leader, Heather-Dawn Small, remembered for her global impact
Published | 5 January 2024
The Adventist community mourns the passing of Heather-Dawn Small, a dedicated servant known for her remarkable contributions to women's ministry worldwide.
[Photo: Lucas Cardino / Adventist Media Exchange (CC BY 4.0)]
The Adventist community mourns the passing of Heather-Dawn Small, a dedicated servant known for her remarkable contributions to women's ministry worldwide. Small's profound commitment and tireless efforts in uplifting millions of Adventist women from diverse corners of the globe earned her a place in the hearts of many.
Described as a beacon of empowerment and a devoted advocate, Small's devotion to fostering women's ministry was unparalleled. Pastor Ted Wilson, President of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, expressed deep sorrow, highlighting the profound loss and emphasizing Small's significant impact on the global Adventist community.
Small commenced her remarkable journey in Trinidad and Tobago, initially serving as an administrative assistant to the President of what is now known as the University of the Southern Caribbean. Her dedication to Children and Women's Ministries led her to positions of leadership, where she served as the Children’s Ministries director for the Caribbean Union Conference (CUC) before assuming the role of Women's Ministries Director. In 2001, Small was called to the World Church as Associate Director of Women’s Ministries, working alongside Ardis Stenbakken. Her ascension continued as she was elected Women’s Ministries Director during the General Conference Session in 2005, succeeding Stenbakken upon her retirement.
Small's legacy extended far beyond administrative roles. Her visionary leadership played a pivotal role in launching 'enditnow®,' an initiative aimed at mobilizing Adventist members globally to raise awareness and take a stand against abuse and violence, working collaboratively with ADRA. This initiative has left an indelible mark in advocating for societal change and ensuring the safety and well-being of countless individuals and is a staple of Conferences, Unions and Division calendars across the globe.
As the Adventist community grieve her loss, we in the South Caribbean Conference extend our thoughts and prayers to Sis Small's family, who bear the weight of her absence after a brief illness. Small’s enduring impact on women’s ministry and her profound influence on the global Adventist community will continue to resonate, embodying the spirit of dedication and empowerment she championed throughout her life. We encourage all members, to keep her family in prayer.
The General Conference article on this story can be found here.
