Steve Doss, principal and 7th– 8th grade teacher at Desmond T. Doss Christian Academy in Lynchburg, Va. received the Columbia Union’s Outstanding Educator Award, last month.By presenting this award, the union’s education officials “seek to promote the recognition and appreciation of outstanding educators who have demonstrated consistent excellence.”
As a young man, Doss joined the air force and was later accepted to nursing school. Before he started his first semester, he cut his finger and needed stitches. “Right then and there, I decided nursing wasn’t for me,” he laughed. Doss instead pursued a history degree.
Steve Doss receives the Outstanding Educator Award from Donovan Ross, Columbia Union associate director of education.
During this time, he attended an evangelism series, where he gave his life to God. Upon graduation, his friend, Tammy Tomlin, and then principal of DTD, gave him the opportunity to explore teaching as an aide. “Within two weeks, I knew this was the place for me,” said Doss. “God lead me. It’s such a contrast from how I grew up.”
Many recognize Doss’s ability to bridge the school and church to non-Adventist families. “In a meeting, I distinctly remember Steve outlining all the non-Adventist students enrolled,” recalls Keith Hallam, vice president for education. “When completing his report he was quick to add that he believed before the school year closes many students would accept Jesus as their personal savior.”
Doss has continued to develop his teaching certifications and holds a master’s in education.
“DTD has experienced many changes and challenges, but enrollment continues to increase and relationships in the community continue to strengthen,” said Hallam. “Steve is a big part of that success story. He lives with integrity and always demonstrates kindness, love and compassion.”
