As the new school year gets underway, Pinecrest is pleased to welcome new faculty member Michael Smith, who moved to Pinecrest from Suffolk, Virginia along with his wife, Donna and their daughter, Madison.

“We serve a great God, and I am looking forward to great things happening within the student body,” said Michael.

Michael was a student at Pinecrest from 1981-1983 then returned to graduate from the Advanced Biblical Studies Program in 1991. He also taught at the Pinecrest Christian School and pastored a church in Herkimer, New York. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Bible Theology in 2000 from International College of Bible Theology and continued as a teacher there until coming to Pinecrest. In addition to teaching, Michael helps with worship and will direct student outstations.  

Mark Mills-Powell has also joined us from Cambridge, England, to teach the Church History class for First Quarter. Mark attended Eton College until the age of 18. He went on to receive his Bachelor’s degree from Durham University and his Master of Divinity degree from Virginia Theological Seminary and has authored several books. Mark and his wife Dana have three daughters: Bridget, Phoebe, and Rachel.

“It’s a great joy to be here at Pinecrest for this quarter,” said Mark. “I’ve already found it stimulating and enriching.”

Also new to Pinecrest this year is Director of Admissions Clay Laughridge. He replaces Andrea Bugos, who has assumed the position of Director of Public Relations after six years in the Admissions Office.

Clay is a graduate of Campbell University who moved to Pinecrest from Wilson, North Carolina in June. He will take part-time classes In addition to his responsibilities as Director of Admissions.

Clay learned about Pinecrest after reading Wade Taylor’s book, The Secret of the Stairs. He was attracted by the school’s mandate to raise up a generation of those who understand present truth, coupled with intimacy with God.

“I’m looking forward to working with the students and staff here,” said Clay, “and I’m excited to meet prospective students who share the vision of Pinecrest.”