After an extensive search, the Upper Columbia Academy board of directors has appointed Twila S. Brown as its new principal starting the 2026–2027 school year. Brown has more than 30 years of educational experience and has served as principal at several Adventist schools, including Lake City Junior Academy in Idaho.
“We were impressed by Brown and think she is a great fit for UCA,” said Adam Littell, Upper Columbia Conference vice president for education. “She has a long history in this area and knows how important UCA is to our educational strategy.”
Brown is very familiar with the Pacific Northwest as a graduate of UCA and Walla Walla College, where she received a bachelor’s degree in health science. Additionally, Brown earned a master’s degree in education with a focus on curriculum and instruction from Eastern Washington University.
For the last 12 years, Brown has served as Learning Tree Elementary School principal in Dalton, Georgia. Under her tenure, enrollment doubled to capacity with more than 80 students. She developed and implemented an outdoor education program and raised more than $250,000 to support resources for the program.
"God’s fingerprints have been all over the events that have recently unfolded, and His calling has become very clear,” said Brown. "He is leading me to serve as UCA principal. What a humbling responsibility and what an honor to give back to my alma mater, the school that helped shape me through the gauntlet of my teenage years, battle scars and all, where I also met my Traveling Companion for life!”
Brown and her husband, Doug, who is a pastor and former professor at Southern Adventist University, enjoy rafting, canoeing, rock climbing, hiking, biking and skiing. They have two grown children and one grandson.
“I’m excited to see what God has in store for each of us and for our school as we walk this next season together,” added Brown. “I also look forward to hearing your stories, how UCA has shaped your life, why you continue to invest and sacrifice for this school, and what your hopes and dreams are for its future.”
