Name: Angela (Morris) Donadio
Graduation Year: 1990
Major: Music Education (Voice and Piano)
Current Position: Staff Pastor, River of Life Church, Author, Founder of Voice of the Voiceless
City and State: Fredericksburg, Virginia
Tell us about your career and what you do now.
For nearly thirty years, I have partnered with my husband, Dale (1990) to lead River of Life Church, a diverse church in a Virginia commuter city for Washington, D.C. I served as Worship and Women’s Pastor for nearly twenty years before transitioning to Associate Pastor. After two near-death health crises in 2001 and 2003, the Lord shifted the trajectory of my ministry. I became an ordained minister with the A/G, completed three albums and began writing resources for women. I recently authored my fourth published book with my father, Rev. Hubert Morris, “Brave Enough to Believe – How the Life of Doubting Thomas Answers Our Hard Questions.” A former Evangel Vice-President, we were blessed to launch the book at our Alma Mater, Evangel University, in 2023. I host the Make Life Matter Podcast and am currently completing my Master of Leadership and Ministry from AGTS. As the Founder of Voice of the Voiceless, I champion women around the world, particularly in Africa. I’m an adventure junkie and a grateful mom to two young adults.
What is your favorite memory from Evangel?
I have so many wonderful memories, but perhaps touring with the Concert Choir ranks at the top. I sang in Concert Choir throughout my time at Evangel and loved touring the country with other students. One of my most meaningful personal moments, however, was playing “Rhapsody in Blue” as a duet with my piano professor and friend, Dr. June Kean. Dr. Kean had the most profound impact on my life, both personally and professionally. She now calls Heaven home, but her fingerprints are still in my life.
How did Evangel help you identify/develop your calling?
Evangel expanded my biblical and personal worldview. Rather than compartmentalize my faith, my relationship with Christ permeates everything He calls me to do. My time at Evangel shaped my foundation for global ministry and inspired me to live a life marked by both Spirit and Truth.
How did your experience at Evangel prepare you for life after graduation?
Immediately after graduation, I performed professionally and taught public school while my husband completed his Master of Divinity from AGTS. We then moved to Maui, Hawaii, to serve for one year at a church and school before settling in Virginia for all our ministry lives. Evangel taught me to be well-rounded and to influence and impact the culture around me while maintaining a global vision. It helped me to develop a worldview that allows me to serve in multiple settings across denominational and cultural lines. Although methods change, the mission remains the same – bring people to Jesus.
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
Make your life matter. Ground your worth in the Word instead of the narrative of the world. Your greatest opportunity to change a culture and reach your generation is to do exactly what God has called you to do. Don’t allow limiting beliefs or comparison to keep you from running fearlessly in God’s call on your life. Serving God is one, grand adventure – and He will work in and through you to advance the kingdom in whatever field you serve.
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from Evangel?
I would look for men and women who hold a biblical worldview and a spirit of excellence. Be proactive, innovative, and kind. Humility will take you farther than hustle in God’s economy, and consistency of character will give you longevity in both the ministry and marketplace. Stay available and teachable and you’ll make a mark on earth for eternity.