Michaela Lawrence began serving as Director and Chaplain for Advent House/ACF at UTK in September 2009. Most recently, Michaela completed the Master of Divinity at Andrews University, laying a firmer foundation on which to base all her ministry endeavors. Michaela’s primary aim is “to use my God-given gifts to build God's kingdom” and she’s especially excited to do that on the UTK campus.

Born in London, England and raised on three continents, Michaela’s life hasn’t been too conventional and she wouldn’t change a thing. In the last seven years, her unconventional journey has enabled her to explore three particular passions: singing, teaching and writing. In 2003, Michaela completed the MA in English Literature from the University of Illinois at Chicago where she taught for three years. From there she went on to work with the Adult Literacy program in Lacombe, Alberta while also developing her writing life. And in the midst of all this, Michaela has been invited to lead out in worship through song in various venues in North America. Because of these adventures, Michaela’s primary aim has been affirmed as God blesses when she uses her gifts for his glory.

Michaela also serves as Director of Adventist Christian Fellowship for the Georgia-Cumberland Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, overseeing the implementation and growth of ACF groups in Georgia and East Tennessee.

In addition to all this, Michaela enjoys cafés, refinishing projects, time with family and friends, singing, writing and rollerblading. And she’d also love to make time to meet you!

Feel free to contact Michaela at michaela@adventhouse.org or 865.522.3193