STORY
Ohio Conference Treasury Department Announces Leadership Changes
January 16, 2025
Francis Tuffour
The Ohio Conference Treasury Department has announced two major leadership transitions: Zachary Sharpe has moved from Assistant Treasurer to Associate Treasurer, and Karen Alvarez has been appointed Assistant Treasurer.
Zachary’s parents, who are Adventist church employees, served in various locations, allowing him to move with them several times during childhood. He was born in Newark, Ohio, while his father worked at Mount Vernon Academy. Throughout his education, Zachary attended Adventist schools—from kindergarten through his master’s degree.
Karen, the oldest of three children, was born in El Salvador to an Adventist family. She loves nature and spends much of the summer hiking. Karen also enjoys reading and listening to music. She joined the Ohio Conference in May 2023 as a Human Resources Assistant. Her primary responsibilities included managing the onboarding and offboarding processes, explaining benefits to new employees, and overseeing Open Enrollment. She assisted with employee retirement processes, service records, and working policy updates.
As the new Associate Treasurer, Zachary’s responsibilities include managing the conference’s Non-Operating and Trust funds. He will also oversee Endowment funds and participate in various committees to foster collaboration among staff as they further the Lord’s work. Zachary joined the Ohio Conference on November 1, 2018, as an Assistant Treasurer, where he primarily oversaw payroll and accounts receivable. Reflecting on his work, Zachary shared, “The most rewarding part about working with the Ohio Conference is hearing the stories about how God is working in Ohio and seeing the incredible things that He is doing.” His favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Karen expressed that the most rewarding part of working with the Ohio Conference is knowing she is working for God. “And helping employees with their benefits and retirement process,” she added. Her favorite Bible verses are Psalms 23 and 91. Beaming with hope, Karen said, “I will keep doing my best to do the work that God has called me to do.”
Echoing that hope, Zachary said, “I look forward to continuing to serve the Ohio Conference as we continue the work the Lord has given us in taking the message of Christ to the people of Ohio.”
share this
Related Stories
A conference departmental leader and ministry partners are highlighting the power of service-driven outreach through a featured discussion on "Christ's Method in Action," showcasing efforts to meet practical needs while building stronger, healthier communities. The program, presented on 3ABN Today, features Pastor Delthony Gordon, Adventist Community Services (ACS) Director for the Ohio Conference and pastor of the Beavercreek Seventh-day Adventist Church, alongside Nicole Braxton of AMEN Free Clinic. The discussion focuses on collaborative approaches to community engagement, compassionate service, and improving access to essential resources. Participants emphasized the importance of addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs through hands-on ministry and community partnerships. The conversation highlights how faith-based organizations and healthcare-focused outreach initiatives can work together to serve individuals and families facing challenges. "Christ's Method in Action" illustrates a model of service that seeks to build trust, foster relationships, and create meaningful opportunities for positive change throughout Ohio communities using the important outreach arm - Adventist Community Services. The program serves as an example of the ongoing commitment of community organizations, volunteers, and ministry leaders who are working to provide practical support and hope to those in need. For more information about Adventist Community Services in Ohio and related outreach initiatives, visit www.ACSOhio.org , or email acs@ohioadventist.org.
Led by Elder Mark Mirek and Diana Mirek, teachers at Piqua Adventist Christian School, eight students played a central role in leading Education Day at the Lima Seventh-day Adventist Church, highlighting the value of Adventist Christian education. The students actively participated in the worship service, taking part in Scripture reading, prayer, congregational singing, and instrumental music. Their musical contributions featured a variety of instruments, including the keyboard, banjo, double bass, cajón, and castanets. A highlight of the service was a powerful personal testimony shared by Elder Mark Mirek. He spoke emotionally about his journey from atheism to faith in Jesus Christ, and how that transformation ultimately led him to a calling in Adventist education. His message resonated deeply with the congregation and underscored the life-changing impact of faith-based learning. The presence and participation of the students were a meaningful blessing to the church community. “It was truly inspiring to see these young people so engaged in worship and ministry,” said First Elder Courtney Simons. “Their involvement is a testament to the strong spiritual foundation being built at Piqua Adventist Christian School.” Following the service, members expressed appreciation for the students’ contributions and the school’s commitment to nurturing both academic excellence and Christian character. Events like Education Day continue to strengthen the connection between the church and its school, reminding all in attendance of the importance of investing in the next generation. At Piqua Adventist Christian School, students are provided with an environment that integrates faith and learning, encouraging them to develop spiritually, academically, and socially. Programs like Education Day offer students valuable opportunities to serve, lead, and share their faith within the broader church community.
On Sunday, April 26, the Ohio Conference Youth Ministries Department hosted a training event for the Alive in Jesus Sabbath School curriculum at the First SDA Hispanic Church of Columbus. Approximately 65 teachers representing the Baby, Beginner, Kindergarten, and Primary divisions attended, united in their commitment to strengthening children’s ministries. The training was conducted in both English and Spanish, allowing for broader participation and engagement. Participants took part in practical sessions focused on effective teaching and long-term discipleship. They also received resources to support and strengthen their local Sabbath School programs. The Ohio Conference Youth Ministries Department acknowledged the North American Division instructors for leading and enriching the training experience. The department also recognized the strong participation and the commitment to guiding children into a growing relationship with Jesus. For more information about the curriculum, visit: https://www.aliveinjesus.info
STAY UP TO DATE
GET CONFERENCE'S LATEST
Receive monthly updates from the conference, and get a heads up on upcoming events.
Contact Us
