Strong leadership is more than having the natural ability to lead. It develops through intentional learning and the willingness to grow alongside others. Whether you’re stepping into your first management role or leading an entire organization, the challenges of today’s workplace require leaders who can communicate, navigate change and inspire high-performing teams.��

To help new and senior professionals build their leadership skills, �鶹��ýӳ�� (ACU) is launching two new in-person leadership workshops at its Dallas campus. Designed for leaders at different stages of their careers, the Leadership Foundations Workshop and Executive Leadership Workshop provide research-based strategies that participants can apply within their organizations.��

Leadership Foundations Workshop

The Leadership Foundations Workshop is an immersive two-day event on October 28-29, 2026, for new and emerging leaders who want to build their leadership. The workshop’s main goal is to equip these new leaders with the core skills needed to build teams and relationships.��

Throughout the two-day experience, participants will explore practical leadership strategies for communicating effectively, coaching employees and fostering trust within their organizations. Topics discussed include:��

• Leading with confidence
• Navigating difficult conversations
• Coaching and developing employees��
• Building trust and accountability

Participants will also leave with a personalized 30-day Leadership Practice Plan, coaching tools, stronger emotional intelligence and strategies they can implement to boost team performance.

Executive Leadership Workshop

Experienced leaders face increasingly complex challenges that extend beyond daily operations. Executive leadership requires the ability to shape culture, strengthen organizational resilience and guide teams through periods of change.��

The Executive Leadership Workshop on October 7-9, 2026, was designed for senior leaders, directors, vice presidents and executives wanting to take their skills to the next level. The workshop covers topics in:��

• Strengthening executive presence��
• Shaping organizational culture
• Cultivating a resilient team��
• Leading through change

At the end of the workshop, participants will develop an Organizational Resilience Blueprint, a 90-day Leadership Commitment, strategies that promote culture within the organization and the tools needed to continue leading in the evolving workplace.��

Learn From Experience Leadership Experts

Accomplished leadership professionals with decades of experience in business, government and organizational development lead each workshop, creating an engaging learning environment where participants collaborate on real-world challenges, receive personalized feedback and leave with practical strategies they can immediately implement in their organizations. The instructional team includes:

Brenda McAdoo, J.D., a former FBI hostage negotiator with more than 22 years of experience in leadership, conflict resolution and executive coaching.��

Matt Daniel, Ed.D., a leadership expert with over 25 years of experience in organizational change, team effectiveness, and executive leadership development.��

Reagan Waggoner, M.S., M.Div, a leadership trainer specializing in emotional intelligence, organizational development and team effectiveness.��

Register and Elevate Your Leadership

Leadership is one of the most valuable investments professionals and organizations can make. By improving communication and growing teams, effective leaders bring meaningful change that benefits employees, customers and communities. Each workshop is intentionally designed to be interactive, allowing participants to engage in meaningful discussion, collaborate on leadership challenges and leave with personalized strategies for their own organizations.��

Every registration comes with expert instruction, workshop materials, lunch and refreshments, a certificate of completion and a digital badge recognizing your professional development. Participants will also have numerous opportunities to network with fellow leaders, exchange ideas and foster meaningful connections throughout the experience. ACU’s leadership workshops provide practical tools, expert guidance and meaningful connections to help you lead with confidence.

Both workshops will be held at ACU’s Dallas campus in Addison, Texas during October 2026. Eligible ACU partners, employees, students and alumni can also receive a $500 registration discount.

For more information about the workshops, visit our .

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The affiliation recognizes that the Dukes School of Finance incorporates at least 70% of the CFA Program curriculum into its courses and places emphasis on the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct. This positions students well to obtain the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation, the most respected and recognized investment credential in the world.��

“Entry into the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program signals to potential students, employers and the marketplace that ACU’s curriculum is closely tied to professional practice and is well-suited to preparing students for the CFA Program examinations,” said Dr. Jody Jones, associate professor of finance. “There is also immediate and direct benefit to students, as we are eligible to receive several CFA Program Student Scholarships each year.”

The Dukes School of Finance, housed in ACU’s College of Business Administration, offers a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance, equipping students to analyze financial data, project growth, evaluate expenditures, and promote financial stability for companies and individuals. The program also prepares graduates to pursue advanced degrees in business-related fields, deepening analytical and critical thinking skills along the way.

The school bears the name of the late Dr. Bill and Janie Dukes, whose estate gift of more than $29 million to ACU stands as the largest single academic gift in university history. Their generosity established the Dr. William P. and Janie B. Dukes Excellence in Finance Endowment, which funds prestigious student scholarships, supports preparation for top graduate programs, and endows multiple faculty positions in finance.��

is the global association of investment professionals that sets the standard for professional excellence and credentials. The organization is a champion of ethical behavior in investment markets and a respected source of knowledge in the global financial community. CFA’s aim is to create an environment where investors’ interests come first, markets function at their best, and economies grow. There are more than 200,000 CFA charterholders worldwide in 164 markets. CFA Institute has nine offices worldwide and there are 160+ CFA Societies.

– Wendy Kilmer

July 15, 2026

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�鶹��ýӳ�� (ACU) is expanding its portfolio of online undergraduate programs with the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Education Studies, a faith-driven degree designed to prepare aspiring educators to make a meaningful impact in classrooms, schools and communities.

Created for those looking to begin a career in education or to advance from a paraprofessional to a teacher, this fully online program combines educational theory, instructional practice and leadership development to provide graduates with the knowledge and skills to serve diverse learners. Through seven-week courses and a flexible online format, students can earn their degree while balancing work, family and other commitments.

“At ACU, we’re dedicated to creating programs that meet the evolving needs of today’s learners while preparing graduates to lead with purpose,” said Dr. Stephen Johnson, chief executive officer of ACU Dallas. “This new program reflects our commitment to deliver accessible, Christ-centered education that empowers students. Whether they’re preparing for the classroom or another educational setting, graduates will leave equipped to serve with excellence and compassion.”

The curriculum provides students with a strong foundation in educational leadership, child development, communication and instructional practices. For students interested in becoming classroom teachers, the program also offers an educator certification pathway through the Texas Institute for Teacher Education (). As part of the Bachelor of Science in Education Studies, students can complete their teacher certification through TXITE, a faith-based, fully online educator preparation program dedicated to equipping future educators with EC-6 certification and the practical wisdom needed to serve elementary students across Texas.

“The need for exceptional educators has never been greater,” said Dr. George Saltsman, provost and vice president of academic affairs. “This program prepares students not only with the academic and practical skills needed to succeed in education but also with the Christian values that inspire servant leadership. We believe our graduates will positively influence students, families and school communities for years to come.”

Graduates of the program will be prepared for a variety of careers in education, including instructional support, educational leadership, nonprofit organizations, community education and youth-serving agencies.��

The online Bachelor of Science in Education Studies is accepting applicants for its inaugural cohort beginning this fall, with classes starting on August 25, 2026. Learn more or apply for the program today.

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�鶹��ýӳ�� announces the launch of its new fully online

Two distinct concentrations offer a personalized 12-credit-hour experience that will foster leadership to strengthen healthcare teams and patient outcomes.�� The Nurse Education concentration will help nurses expand their knowledge and skills to become faculty in academic and healthcare settings and teach nursing students. The Nursing Administration concentration will prepare nurses for leadership roles where they can manage, organize and improve patient care within their unit. Students will be prepared to grow into roles such as Nurse Manager, Director of Nursing, Chief Nursing Officer and Nurse Administrator.��

“The launch of our online Master of Science in Nursing represents an important step in ACU’s commitment to developing healthcare professionals who lead with expertise, compassion and purpose,” said Dr. Stephen Johnson, chief executive officer of ACU Dallas. “As healthcare organizations face growing challenges and opportunities, there is an increasing need for nurse leaders and educators who can guide teams, improve patient care and help prepare the next generation of nurses.”

The online Master of Science in Nursing curriculum equips nurses to expand their impact through leadership, education and service. Through seven-week educational courses with an industry-relevant curriculum, students will experience a smooth transition into new topics while continuing to balance their work, family, and other obligations. Nurses deepenexpand their expertise through coursework focused on evidence-based practice, ethical leadership, healthcare management and effective communication.����

“ACU is committed to creating a learning environment that challenges students academically while supporting them personally and professionally,” said Dr. George Saltsman, provost and vice president of academic affairs. “Through relevant coursework, practical application and a Christ-centered approach to leadership, graduates will be equipped to serve their organizations and communities with excellence.”

The online Master of Science in Nursing is accepting applicants for its inaugural cohort beginning this fall, with classes starting on August 25, 2026. Learn more or for the program today.

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�鶹��ýӳ�� received the highest possible score and an A+ rating for financial health in the

The list assessed 928 private colleges using data from the Department of Education’s National Center For Educational Statistics as well as from higher education analytics and consulting firm Perspective Data Science, which zeroes in on colleges’ true liquidity. Only 103 universities in the nation received an A+, and only 71 scored a 4.5 GPA.

“To be recognized among the top performers nationwide – at a time when financial pressures across higher education continue to intensify – speaks to ACU’s strength and sustainability,” said Dr. Phil Schubert, ACU president. “I’m incredibly proud of the way our administration, faculty and staff steward our resources with integrity and excellence. A solid financial foundation allows us to provide a world-class education and an exceptional experience for our students.”��

The Forbes College Financial Grades report used 10 metrics in evaluating the financial health of private, not-for-profit colleges:

• Endowment assets per student (15%)
• Three-year average of liquid reserves compared to annual operating expenses (15%)
• Primary reserve ratio (10%)
• Long-term debt coverage (10%)
• Core operating margin (10%)
• Two-year enrollment growth (10%)
• Tuition as a percentage of core revenues (7.5%)
• Return on assets (7.5%)
• Net tuition revenue per student (7.5%)
• Instruction expenses per student (7.5%)

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The Friday, May 8, ceremony at 7 p.m. will award 52 doctoral and 261 master’s degrees. On Saturday, May 9, 650 bachelor’s degrees will be presented in two ceremonies – 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.��

The 10 a.m. ceremony includes bachelor’s degree candidates from��

• College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
• College of Biblical Studies
• College of Health and Human Services
• College of Learning and Development
• Onstead College of Science and Engineering��

The 2 p.m. ceremony includes bachelor’s degree candidates from

• College of Business Administration
• College of Health and Behavioral Sciences
• College of Leadership and Professional Studies��

Dr. Wes Crawford (’02 M.Div.), vice provost, will give the charge to the graduate class at the Friday ceremony. Kevin Washington (’11 M.A.), associate athletics director and athletics chaplain at Baylor University, will give the charge to the undergraduate class at both ceremonies on Saturday. Washington played football at Notre Dame and ACU, earning bachelor’s degrees in sociology and film and television and master’s degrees in communication and biblical counseling.

All three ceremonies will be livestreamed; visit acu.edu/commencement for more information.����

Honorary Doctorate

At the Saturday morning ceremony, ACU will award an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters to Barbara (Bell ’50) Packer. Alongside her late husband and former ACU board chair, H. Lynn Packer (’50), she played an integral role in advancing the mission of ACU through investment and support of initiatives that shaped the university’s spiritual and academic identity. The Packer family’s impact is reflected in the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building, the Robert S. and Katherine Bell Chapel on the Hill, two endowed chairs in the College of Biblical Studies and the Packer Scholars program.

Outlive Your Life Award

In both Saturday ceremonies, Dr. Perry Reeves (’65) will be awarded the Dale and Rita Brown Outlive Your Life Award. A longtime member of ACU’s chemistry faculty, Reeves’ love of teaching and research made him an inspiration and mentor to generations of future scientists, science teachers and medical professionals. The Outlive Your Life Award is named for its first recipients, Dale and Rita Brown, and for the book by ACU alumnus Max Lucado, Outlive Your Life: You Were Made to Make a Difference. The award recognizes all types of servant leadership exhibited by friends or alumni of the university.

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Gasore addressed the United Nations General Assembly on April 7 as part of a ceremony marking the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. In a powerful account of survival, he urged the audience to remember the victims and pursue “unity, reconciliation and dignity.”

He said he hopes the UN will remain vigilant against ongoing hate and division, refusing to turn away. In doing so, he says, “we can all proclaim ‘never again’ in an authentic way,” not only in words but in action.��

While revisiting his story can be painful, Gasore also finds it therapeutic to share. “For survivors, every time someone is willing to listen to you, it helps you make it to the next day,” he says. “It helps you feel like, ‘What I went through, someone wants to listen to.’”��

In his day-to-day life, Gasore lives out the message of his speech. He and his wife, Esperance, founded , a holistic ministry serving the physical and spiritual needs of children and their families, regardless of their background. The ministry now serves over 1,500 people per day.��

Gasore envisions those children growing up to transform their communities. “We are all called to serve and bring peace and bring justice,” he says.��

Each year, groups of ACU students partner with Gasore and Rwanda Children to serve these families. Engineering students surveyed the property for an erosion control project. Nursing students assist in the medical clinic. The ACU women’s basketball team will host a basketball clinic in August.��

Gasore, who received in 2018, is grateful for these partnerships and the relationships he built during his seven years at ACU.��

“ACU not only gave me an education and prepared me to go to serve God, they also transformed my community,” he said.��

Whether on the world stage, at home in Abilene or back in his home village, Gasore continues to share a message of restoration: “Even in the darkest moment, hope can survive.”

– Kayla Hewitt

May 4, 2026

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More than 1,500 alumni, faculty, staff, students, friends and fans joined together to raise a record $1.4 million – all to directly benefit students at �鶹��ýӳ��. The total is a record high and the first time in its nine-year history for the event to top $1 million in contributions. It also represents a 57% increase over last year’s ACU Gives.

“The ACU community is truly unmatched,” said Blair Schroeder, vice president for advancement and external affairs. “Wildcats around the world stepped up to support our students and the mission of ACU, and we couldn’t be more grateful.”

During the 1,906-minute-long event, in honor of the year of ACU’s founding, ACU Gives participants chose from more than 38 specific funds to support in four main areas of emphasis:��

• Student support, access and scholarships
• Academic excellence, experiential learning and career preparation
• Student belonging, traditions and campus life
• Faith, service, global and calling
• Athletics

“Thank you for believing in ACU, but more importantly for believing in our students – in the purpose and promise of their lives,” said Dr. Phil Schubert, president. “We are so grateful for your willingness to partner with us in the journey to shape the lives of young men and women into the image of Jesus.”

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�鶹��ýӳ��’s Carl Spain Center on Race Studies and Spiritual Action will host the Don Williams and Royce Money Distinguished Lecture Series May 1 at 7 p.m. in Chapel on the Hill in the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building. The event, featuring Pulitzer Prize-winning author Annette Gordon-Reed, is free and open to the public.

Gordon-Reed will be speaking on “The Story of Our Founding and Its Impact for Us Today,” and the lecture is designed to help the community engage in collective remembrance, said Tryce Prince, executive director of the Carl Spain Center.��

“This year marks the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence. America 250 provides us with an opportunity to practice what the Carl Spain Center refers to as ‘collective remembrance.’ We can courageously face our past, its triumphs and tragedies, knowing the power of God within us helps us realize our great potential,” Prince said.

Gordon-Reed is the Carl M. Loeb University Professor at Harvard University. She has won 16 book prizes, including the Pulitzer Prize in history in 2009 and the National Book Award in 2008 for The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family. Her most recent book is On Juneteenth, a memoir and history of Texas. A selected list of honors includes a Guggenheim Fellowship in the humanities, a MacArthur Fellowship, the National Humanities Medal, the Frederick Douglass Book Prize, the George Washington Book Prize and the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award. She is a Texas-raised historian and appears as a featured expert in Ken Burns’ recent PBS documentary The American Revolution.

– Wendy Kilmer

April 22, 2026

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ACU’s student film festival returned to the historic Paramount Theatre this spring for the 22nd premiere event to celebrate student achievement in film. The event featured projects from 14 teams, including narrative, documentary and animated films represented.��

The theme of FilmFest 2026 was “On Set,” and the evening included past and present judges and mentors describing the experience of being on a film set. Tim Holt (’15), a past FilmFest participant and ACU’s Young Alumnus of the Year, described the challenge of stepping onto a new set.

“We’re always trying to make bigger and better videos, and the sets change from shoot to shoot from smaller sets of teams of three to four to bigger shoots which will have probably 50 to 60 people on set. The roles might be carried over but you’re always going to be learning something new based on the type of content that you’re trying to produce.”��

More than 100 students participated in producing this year’s films, with a third of those students working on more than one film. In fact, five students this year contributed to at least five films, including Brooke Musia and Lauren Burris who won Best Direction for their film After Emmy and Abbey Monroe who directed the Best Picture winner Courting, along with writer, editor and sound roles on other films.��

Joshua Varner won Best Cinematography for Sins and Cinders, but shot or helped shoot three other films. One of the stand-out-performances this year came from a sophomore multimedia major participating in FilmFest for the first time. Jaden Frecka won Best Original Score for his film Keeping up with the King but also wrote original music for six other films or, in all, half of all submitted films.��

During the event, students also heard from Randy Brewer (’93), long-time producer with Revolution Pictures in Nashville now in Abilene as ACU’s chief storyteller. Brewer told students it’s “important to network long before you graduate.” He partnered with FilmFest last May on a road trip to Nashville that included visits to sets and production studios where students met professionals in a range of fields. “You may think, like I did, ‘I want to be a director,’ and then when you get out there, you may change your mind and think, ‘Maybe I’d be better at what they do.’ I think everyone should look for a mentor.”

This year’s judges were industry mentors from production hubs in L.A., Tulsa and Atlanta. Sommerly Simser (‘10) is a returning judge and finance executive at Netflix. She is a member of the Television Academy and Women in Film and is the founder of the Tinseltown Scholarship Society, a nonprofit supporting aspiring college filmmakers.��

Two new mentors joined the FilmFest Gala this year. Amy Teague is a set decorator and production designer from Tulsa whose credits include Twisters, Reservation Dogs, The Low Down and The Great Awakening currently in theatres. Nate Corrona comes from Dustbrand Films in Atlanta having directed and produced more than 200 music videos with Grammy-winning artists like Crowder, PJ Morton and Lecrae. Both met with students this year to share their experience and provide feedback leading up to the FilmFest Gala.

Brewer advised students that opportunities to connect with mentors or get chances to be on set exist through FilmFest. “Who are the mentors at FilmFest who are people you can go up to and ask could I have coffee with you? What are some ways I should be on set? You have the opportunity to be mentored more, but you just need to step out.”

Visit acu.edu/filmfest to learn more.

– Kyle Dickson

April 20, 2026

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