New Executive Director Announced for ADRA Canada

The ADRA Canada Board of Directors announced Astleford’s appointment, with immediate effect, at their June 12 meeting.

“I have been excited to be part of ADRA’s ministry for many years, Astleford stated. “Relief and development agencies are growing increasingly professional and sophisticated and world needs are pressing,” he commented.  “In this new role I will seek to lead ADRA in meeting these challenges.  We must be a strong agency that continues to provide effective, loving service to those in poverty and distress around the world.”

Astleford has served at a senior management level within the ADRA network for more than twenty years.  His years of service have included appointments as executive director at the ADRA offices in South Sudan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Nepal and assistant country director for ADRA India.  Astleford holds a MSA degree in international development and a MA from Andrews University as well as a BA from Washington Adventist University.

“I have had the privilege of working with James for the past several years and know that with his past experience, strong commitment for the growth of ADRA, and his knowledge of the Canadian field, he will be a strong asset to our humanitarian agency.  There is no doubt that with all of our support he will bring ADRA to another level of excellence,” stated Daniel Stojanovic, chair of the ADRA Canada board of directors.  “I’m confident that James, along with his staff, will continue to promote a positive vision for the work of ADRA Canada here at home and around the world,” continued Stojanovic.  “On behalf of the Board and the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Canada, I assure him of our full support and prayers for his success,” he committed.

“Through my many years with ADRA, I have seen how the lives of individuals and whole communities in many countries have improved as a result of ADRA projects,” reflected Astleford. “I am also very proud of, and thankful for, the contributions Canadians make through their support of ADRA Canada.  Our supporters are our lifeblood and I appreciate their continued support and prayers as I take on this new role.”

Astleford will be balancing his new role along with his current role as the ADRA Canada Emergency Management Director until a replacement is selected.  Astleford replaces Ron Kuhn who held the executive director position until March 2012.

Contribution by:
Alicia Sawyer, ADRA Canada Communication Coordinator