Welcome!

Gem State Adventist Academy (GSAA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Nicole Batten as the Director of Development and Alumni Relations. Batten brings 16 years of experience in communications and fundraising and an enthusiasm for Adventist education.

Batten will work closely with the Alumni Board in planning the upcoming 100^th Anniversary of GSAA and its Alumni Homecoming Weekend March 30-April 1, 2018. All alumni and friends are invited to join GSAA during this special weekend commemorating 100 years of history.

Batten is also tasked with finishing the current extended $75,000 matching challenge for the Annual Fund and raising $100,000 for Worthy Student Scholarships this year, as well as growing the Alumni Endowment. The hope is to reach the endowment goal of $1 million in time for end of the 100^th anniversary year (2018). The principal balance of the endowment is currently $800,105. Donations to these funds can be made by mail or online at www.gemstate.org.

“GSAA has a long history of excellence and a commitment to servant leadership that I think are invaluable in training today’s youth,” shares Batten. “I look forward to inspiring others to support GSAA and invest in its students, staff and mission. It is through our time and philanthropy that we can give back and make a difference beyond ourselves.” One of Batten's favorite quotes is from Winston Churchill, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give."

Batten grew up in Southern Idaho and graduated from Walla Walla University. She has worked in radio, publishing and education. She has a master’s in public relations from Webster University. She has also served on the board of the Society of Adventist Communicators. Batten is currently an adjunct instructor in communications at Carrington College as well.

Batten officially joined the Gem State Adventist Academy family on September 1, 2017. She can be reached by email at nbatten@gemstate.org.

Nicole Batten