Delegates at the Trans Pacific Union Mission (TPUM) Session, meeting at Fulton Adventist University College in Sabeto (Fiji), this week, confirmed the appointments of leaders for two of the Union’s key institutions.
Dr Ronald Stone was reappointed as vice-chancellor of Fulton Adventist University College and William Baefua was reappointed as CEO of Atoifi Adventist Hospital in Malaita, Solomon Islands.
Dr Stone, who has served as Fulton vice-chancellor for the past three years, said he felt “humble and honoured” to continue in the role. Looking ahead to the next five years, he outlined plans to strengthen the college’s spiritual life, expand academic programs, improve infrastructure and resources, and deepen partnerships with other universities.
“Our vision is to be the preferred tertiary education provider upholding Christian values in the Pacific,” he said. “Our number one goal is spirituality—we continue to strengthen that, to make more and better disciples here at Fulton.”
He also noted the college’s rapid growth, with student enrolments rising from just over 300 to 665 in the past three years, and shared plans to celebrate Fulton’s 120th anniversary in November with the opening of a new chapel. The college is also preparing to participate in TPUM for Christ 2026, with theology staff and students already identifying sites in Fiji and Tonga.
Dr Stone is married to Daphne and they have three children.
At Atoifi Adventist Hospital, Mr Baefua returns to the leadership role he first held in 2022. A registered nurse, he has also served in senior health roles with the Solomon Islands Ministry of Health.
Mr Baefua identified the hospital’s land tenure as a major challenge, noting current negotiations with landowners to secure an outright purchase of the site. Looking forward, he emphasised the institution’s role in providing vital healthcare and faith-based witness in a remote region.
“This hospital is situated in a place where health services are really difficult,” he said. “The services the hospital and school provide are a huge help to the surrounding communities.”
He added that Atoifi will also be one of the sites for Solomon Islands for Christ 2026, with hospital staff and students supporting the initiative.
Mr Baefua is married to Jelna Z Baefua and they have five children.
