Embrace Conference

Embrace Conference Schedule

Join students, faculty, staff, and community members as we gather to explore hospitality as an essential practice of Christian life. Schedule subject to change.


  • Dinner, 6pm-7:30pm – Windsor Manor, with key stakeholders from Asbury’s campus community (by invitation only)
  • Staff & Faculty Session, 9am-10am – TBD
  • Student Session, 10:50-12noon – Host, Lydia Roy (VP for Student Intercultural Programs with Student Government), Shaw CLC Auditorium
  • Plenary, 4-5pm – Dr. Rebecca Hernandez and Dr. Jorge Acevedo, Shaw CLC Auditorium
  • Panel Program, 7-8:30pm – Dr. Rebecca Hernandez and Dr. Jorge Acevedo with AU faculty, Shaw CLC Auditorium
  • Chapel, 10-10:50am – Dr. Jorge Acevedo and Dr. Rebecca Hernandez, Hughes Auditorium.
  • Chapel Lunch Talkback, 12-1pm – Dr. Jorge Acevedo and Dr. Rebecca Hernandez, Gray Room Z. T. Johnson Cafeteria
The conference defines itself through hospitality, mutuality, redemptive social action and grace-filled reconciliation. We hope it continues to be an opportunity for students, faculty and staff to come together and learn from scholars and practitioners in the field.”
Rev. Dr. Esther Jadhav, Ph.D. Associate Dean of Intercultural Life

Embrace Speakers

This year’s Embrace Conference will welcome two featured speakers who bring rich insight and experience to our theme of Biblical Hospitality. Through their teaching and stories, they will invite us to consider how Christ calls us to welcome others with humility, grace, and love.

Asbury University Embrace Conference speaker Rebecca Hernandez, Ph.D. Headshot.

Dr. Rebecca Hernandez, PhD

Dr. Hernandez serves as the Organizational Development and Racial Equity Director at Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), a global faith-based relief and development organization. With leadership experience in academia, government, and nonprofit sectors, she has dedicated her career to advancing education, equity, and community well-being.

She earned her PhD in Human Development and Family Studies from Oregon State University, an MPA from Portland State University, and a BA in Education from Southeastern University. A widely published author, her work includes contributions to Diversity Matters: Race, Ethnicity, and the Future of Christian Higher Education (2017) and Thriving in Leadership (2012). She also co-developed the Multi-Ethnic Leadership Development Institute and served on the CCCU’s Commission for Diversity and Inclusion.

In addition to her professional work, Dr. Hernandez consults in education, diversity, and leadership, and serves on several nonprofit boards. She enjoys traveling, community service, and time with family and friends.

Asbury University Embrace Conference speaker Rev. Dr. Jorge Acevedo Headshot.

Rev. Dr. Jorge Acevedo

In August of 2023, Jorge retired as the Lead Pastor of Grace Church, a multi-site congregation in Southwest Florida, serving the people no one else wants or sees. It was his joy to be the pastor at Grace Church for 27 years. His greatest delight was watching amazing teams grow in their faithfulness to God and fruitfulness for God.


Jorge graduated from Asbury College, Asbury Theological Seminary, and most recently, he graduated with a Doctor of Ministry degree from United Theological Seminary. Jorge’s doctoral project was entitled “Congregational Vitality: The Church’s Journey from Heroic Solo Leadership to Generative Team Leadership.” Jorge was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from United Theological Seminary.


It has been his delight to be married to Cheryl for 42 years. Together, they have two amazing sons and four more amazing grandchildren who are the absolute joy of their lives. They love traveling the world together as much as their simple date nights over dinner and a movie.

Embrace Conference Organizers

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