When Eric Johnson accepted the call to be vice principal for development and alumni relations for Upper Columbia Academy (UCA) in Spangle, Wash., this school year, he had no idea what the Lord had planned for his future. John Winslow, current UCA principal, announced earlier this year he felt called to serve the Lord in a pastoral role. That set in motion the process to search for a new principal. When completed, Paul Hoover, Upper Columbia Conference president and chairman of the UCA board, announced Eric Johnson had been voted to serve as the next principal.
Q. Congratulations on your appointment as UCA principal for the 2017–2018 school year. This is not your first time as a principal. Share a little bit about your previous experience and background.
A. I served as principal of Fresno Adventist Academy [in California] before transitioning to UCA this past summer. I have also served as principal of Palau Mission Academy. While my children were young, I owned a real estate development and mortgage company in Chattanooga, Tenn. I feel the lessons and experiences I gained while owning my own business have been of great value in leading a school.
Q. What goals/dreams/visions do you have for UCA?
A. My vision is for UCA to be known as a school that intentionally disciples students to Jesus Christ. We are blessed with an amazing group of faculty and staff that are dedicated to making this a reality. UCA is also blessed to have a rich history and strong alumni support. I hope to build on that. One of the first things we will address is our physical plant, specifically the dormitories. They have served students well for many years, but the time has come for renovation and upgrading
Q. What makes UCA special?
A. The students and staff, of course. When we moved here, everyone told me how UCA is like a big family. It did not take me long to see that is true. I have seen firsthand teachers go out of their way to mentor kids outside the classroom. I have seen students intentionally reach out to another student who is hurting or having a bad day. Sometimes this is done through a prayer and other times through a hug and smile. Without a doubt, UCA is special because of the people that are here.
Q. Is there anything else you would like to share?
A. Please keep us in prayer. I know Satan would like nothing more than to destroy what is happening on our campus. I know he will attack using any available method. I also know that we serve a mighty God who will serve as our fortress and protection. If you feel convicted that UCA is where God is leading your child or grandchild this coming fall, I welcome the opportunity to meet with you and share what God is doing on our campus.
For more information, visit www.ucaa.org, email info@ucaa.org or call 509-245-3600.
Eric and Trish Johnson
Eric Johnson and his wife, Trish, have two children: Brianna, a freshman at Walla Walla University, and Blake, a sophomore at Upper Columbia Academy.
Eric Johnson
