EDUCATOR SHAPED LIVES OF STUDENTS AND TEACHERS
Owen Hughes graduated from intermediate accountancy in 1954 but found office work unchallenging. So, he returned to study science teaching, a decision that led to a lifetime of service as a Seventh-day Adventist educator.
His career began in the classroom before roles as principal in New Zealand and Samoa. With wife Jan—a “loving and patient life partner”—Owen would bring their six children back to Avondale where, for almost 20 years, he trained teachers and headed the then Education Department. He would also complete a prize-winning PhD in psychology, which precipitated another move into administration—as associate director of education for the church in the South Pacific.
One of Owen’s most significant professional achievements: university status for Pacific Adventist College. As the first vice-chancellor, he led complex negotitions to ensure the university remained firmly rooted in Adventist educational philosophy while also navigating the intricacies of government regulations. And he laid the foundation for rapid enrolment growth and academic development.
During his tenure, Owen’s flexibility and generosity in dealing with other training institutions, such as Fulton College in Fiji and the School of Nursing at Sopas Adventist Hospital in Papua New Guinea, demonstrated commitment to improving Adventist education across the South Pacific.
A highlight of Owen’s own academic development? Enhancing the test instrument for Valuegenesis. The study provided insights into the faith development and value formation of young adults. Owen’s contribution resulted in a more reliable statistical analysis, marking a milestone in Adventist educational research. His core report spurred further research and made a lasting impact.
In retirement, Owen served in various capacities overseas, at Babcock University in Nigeria, Adventist International School in Sri Lanka and Bangkok University in Thailand.
Like Jan, Owen enjoys music. He sang in the Avondale Symphonic Choir and played violin, viola and cello in performances of Messiah.
The Class of 1954 honours Dr Owen Hughes for shaping the lives of students and teachers while growing the influence of Adventist education across the South Pacific.—with Dr Lester Devine