Speaker Lineup
Ty Gibson
Light Bearers Speaker | Arise Instructor
Pastor Ty Gibson is a passionate communicator with a message that opens minds and moves hearts. Ty teaches on a variety of topics, emphasizing God’s unfailing love as the central theme of the Bible. He has authored eight best-selling books. Ty and his wife Sue have three adult children and two grandsons.
Stephen Bauer, M.Div., Ph.D.
Professor of Religion, Southern Adventist University
Dr. Stephen Bauer is a professor of religion at Southern Adventist University, with previous pastoral experience in multi-church districts. Passionate about teaching righteousness by faith, he focuses on preparing others to live by God's word. His ministry spans both urban and suburban settings, where he has served as a pastor, Bible worker, and former flight instructor.
Dr. Bauer is married to Leslie Eagles Bauer, a Family Nurse Practitioner. They have two adult children: their late son (1985–2021), who was an attorney, and their daughter, who is a registered nurse. His interests include beekeeping, nature photography, and outdoor activities. He is a sought-after speaker on topics such as faith, ethics, and doctrine, with a Ph.D. dissertation on Darwinian Evolution's impact on human dignity.
Lucinda Hill Spencer, M.D., M.P.H.
Research Professor of Biology, Southern Adventist University
Dr. Lucinda Hill Spencer earned her M.D. in 1983 and an M.P.H. in 1989 from Loma Linda University. As a professor in Southern Adventist University’s Biology Department since 2010, she has been dedicated to educating others about our Creator through teaching anatomy and a senior biology origins course, and working on origins educational projects, including a series of short videos about dinosaurs from a Biblical perspective. Among her many contributions is the article “The Amazing Gift of Hearing,” which explores the intricate design of the ear. Dr. Spencer is passionate about helping others strengthen their faith in God and the Bible, especially amidst the prevailing influence of evolutionary theory.
Rachel Williams Smith, Ph.D., Ed.D.
Dean, School of Journalism & Communication, Southern Adventist University
Dr. Rachel is an educator, writer, and communicator who is passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of others. She serves as Dean of the School of Journalism and Communication at Southern Adventist University, and she is wife, mother, author, and speaker. She holds degrees in Communication (Ph.D.), Educational Leadership (Ed.D.), English (MA), and Language Arts Education (BS).
Mitch Menzmer, Ph.D.
Professor of Chemistry, Southern Adventist University
Dr. Mitch Menzmer earned his Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Clarkson University in 1989 and his Bachelor's from Pacific Union College in 1985. He has been a full-time chemistry educator since 1989 and joined Southern Adventist University in 2007. His research focuses on acid-catalyzed formation of cycloalkenyl cations, kinetic modeling, electronic spectra, quantitative NMR analysis, and the intersection of chemistry with contemporary art, origins-related issues, and prophetic interpretation.
Joanna Billingy, J.D., M.P.A.
Educator & Policy Advocacy Consultant
Joanna Billingy graduated from Southern Adventist University in 2014 with a degree in Global Policies & Service Studies and a minor in Political Economy. She earned her JD from the University of La Verne School of Law in 2017, followed by an MPA in 2018. With experience in public health, legislation, law, and advocacy, Joanna has worked with various social justice and reform groups nationwide. As an educator, she teaches political science, mass media law and ethics at Oakwood University, Southern Adventist University, and Chattanooga State College. She serves as Conference Coordinator and Consultant for Creation Call, to facilitate a platform for enlightening and spiritually deepening discussions on the intersection of science, faith, and social justice. Joanna emphasizes that creation is foundational to truth, identity, and freedom.
Ken Caviness, Ph.D.
Professor & Program Director of Physics, School of Engineering & Physics, Southern Adventist University
Dr. Caviness earned his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Lowell, specializing in special and general relativity. He has taught at SDA universities in Rwanda, Texas, and Tennessee, and now chairs the Physics & Engineering Department at Southern Adventist University. Passionate about education, he thrives on helping students reach moments of clarity and understanding. Additionally, he speaks six languages.
Germán Harvey Alférez Salinas, Ph.D.
Director, Center for Innovation and Research in Computing (CIRC), Southern Adventist University
Dr. Germán Harvey Alférez Salinas is a professor and Director of the Center for Innovation and Research in Computing (CIRC) at Southern Adventist University. He chairs the Academic Research Committee and holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Universitat Politècnica de València, specializing in AI, Data Science, and Autonomic Computing. With certifications from MIT and global research experience, Dr. Alférez has published widely and received the 2023–2024 President’s Award for Excellence in Scholarship at Southern Adventist University. His work is recognized by national scientific councils in two countries.
Philip Samaan, D.Min.
Professor Emeritus & Founder, Christ’s Way Ministry
Dr. Philip Samaan served as a professor in the School of Religion at Southern Adventist University for over 20 years, earning the title of professor emeritus upon retirement. He received multiple President’s Awards for Excellence in Teaching, Commitment to Student Success, and Customer Service Excellence, and held the Ellen G. White Memorial Chair in Religion for 18 years. Prior to Southern, he was Chief Editor of the Adult Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly at the General Conference and Director of the Doctor of Ministry program at Andrews University. Dr. Samaan also served as a missionary in the Africa-Indian Ocean Division and led Youth Outreach and Campus Ministry in the North Pacific Union Conference. He continues to be active through Christ’s Way ministry as an author, teacher, and speaker.
Calvin Smith
Executive Director, Answers in Genesis–Canada
Calvin is the Executive Director of Answers in Genesis–Canada, with over 20 years of experience speaking on creation apologetics at conferences across Canada and internationally. Known for his engaging style and ability to simplify complex concepts, Calvin’s videos have reached over 15 million viewers on platforms such as Answers TV and YouTube. He lives near London, Ontario, with his wife, has three children, and is a grandfather to 12. His hobbies include music and wrestling.
Dan Cheung, Ph.D.
President Emeritus, Hong Kong Adventist College
Dr. Dan Cheung served as president of Hong Kong Adventist College from 2015 to 2023. Born in Hong Kong as the son of an Adventist pastor, he pursued a B.S. in Mathematics and Secondary Education and a Master’s degree from Andrews University. He later earned a Ph.D. in Robust Statistics from Western Michigan University. Before returning to Hong Kong, Dr. Cheung lived in Minnesota for 30 years, working as an actuary, actuarial consultant, certified financial planner, and business owner. He is married to Dr. Corjena Cheung, with two daughters, Chanda and Hannah.
“I believe that the complexity and order found in this world help us to see the universe is created by an intelligent designer. Believing creation can influence how we perceive, interact with, and appreciate the nature. It guides us to be good stewards and care for God’s creation. I believe the world was created with a specific purpose which provides meaning to my personal existence.”
Joseph Khabbaz, MDiv, DMin
Vice President for Spiritual Life and Campus Chaplain, Southern Adventist University
Joseph Khabbaz is the Vice President for Spiritual Life and Campus Chaplain at Southern Adventist University. Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, he earned his seminary degree from Andrews University and has extensive experience in youth ministry, including his previous role as youth pastor at Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church. His hobbies include mission trips, basketball, and spending time with family, including his uncle, Philip Samaan, DMin.
Dana Philossaint, Ph.D., LCSW
Educational Psychologist
Dr. Dana Philossaint holds degrees from Southwestern Adventist University and Andrews University, including a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology. She has authored several books, including The Working of this Mind and Quick Mental Health Guide for Trauma, as well as the children’s book series, Emotions are Ups and Downs. Currently, a school psychologist for Chattanooga Public Schools and CEO of MindCare—Childhood Trauma Therapy, Dr. Philossaint has over 21 years of experience in the mental health field, dedicated to helping individuals transform trauma into testimonies.
Christopher Sernaqué, Ed.D.
Educational Psychologist & STEM Teacher
Dr. Christopher Sernaqué holds a Doctorate in Education Psychology from the European International University in Paris. He has earned multiple certifications, including Integrative Mental Health (Texas State University) and Public Health (University at Albany). He graduated with honors in Psychology and Forensic Science from Ashworth College, obtained an Advanced Diploma in Bioengineering from IIT Bombay, and earned a Higher Education Teaching Certificate from Harvard University. A Nationally Certified STEM Teacher, Dr. Sernaqué is passionate about science, and his faith in Christ Jesus, and serves as head of communications for Christ Jesus Ministries LLC. He is also an avid cyclist and teaches over 21 subjects for Princeton Review.
Keith Bowman II, M.Div.
Youth Pastor, Ooltewah Adventist Church
Keith Bowman II currently serves as the Youth Pastor at Ooltewah Adventist Church in Chattanooga, TN. Keith is a graduate of GCA, Southern Adventist University, and the Theological Seminary at Andrews University. He is married to Shayna (Clifford), and the couple has two children, Keith III and Kenna.
Keith’s creative ideas and high energy keep him busy thinking about and implementing ways to connect people to Jesus. Some of his recent work includes a book he authored titled New Earth Chronicles: Scars in Heaven and a YouTube channel about Adventist beliefs called "Sabbath Apologetics." Keith has also launched an evangelistic tool called “The Sabbath Gift,” a new type of evangelism he refers to as "experiential evangelism." It is a 7-day challenge that reframes how you organize your time, which can be found at sabbathgift.com. Additionally, check out his series of visually appealing digital Bible studies titled A Picture of God at apictureofgod.com.
Abhishek Thavamani, Ph.D.
Professor of Biochemistry, Southern Adventist University
Abhishek Thavamani joined Southern Adventist University as a professor in December 2022, with a passion for helping students see God's character through principles in natural biology. He earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in India and completed his Ph.D. at a Max Planck Research school in Germany, focusing on liver cancer. After post-doctoral research in Germany, he pursued breast cancer research at Harvard Medical School. Abhishek’s teaching philosophy reflects his belief in the harmony between nature and divine creation, inspired by Ellen G. White's writings. “Nature speaks to our senses without ceasing. The open heart will be impressed with the love and glory of God as revealed through the works of His hands.” Steps to Christ (p86), Ellen G. White.
Jeff Staddon, M.S.
Software Engineer, McKee Foods
Jeff Staddon is a software engineer at McKee Foods and holds a master's degree in Software Engineering from Southern Adventist University. He facilitates a Faith and Science Sabbath School at Collegedale SDA Church, where he explores the relationship between geology and the biblical flood. Jeff is an enthusiastic volunteer at the Hanson Research Station's dinosaur dig in Wyoming and encourages others to participate in this unique experience.
Bryan Bissell
Missionary, Educator, & Creation Advocate
Bryan has long been inspired by the Creator’s gifts, including DNA, kinesins, nature, and the cosmos. He is dedicated to helping others experience God’s love and freeing truths through continual learning and collaboration.
A graduate of Andrews University with degrees in religion and psychology, Bryan has served overseas for 23 years in Korea and approximately two years in China. During this time, he founded two mission schools and taught at three universities, imparting essential truths about God and life skills. His passion lies in demonstrating how God’s truths, supported by science, can transform lives, especially as they relate to relationships, justice, health, and biblical economics.
Currently, Bryan is a key organizer of the “Creation is Crucial” conference at Highpoint Chinese SDA Church. He is committed to advancing the understanding of creation as a fundamental aspect of faith and has witnessed its impact on faith and societal development.
In his free time, Bryan enjoys exploring nature with his family, including his daughter who studies neuroscience, watching documentaries, and engaging in adventurous activities like jumping off waterfalls.