Christian Leadership Alliance
I should have seen it coming. After all, communicating persuasively runs through her genes. My husband and I were adamantly opposed to my 16-year-old daughter getting a job – at least during the school year. We were fine with the occasional babysitting gig. What we didn’t want was for her family time/homework availability to be … Continue reading Talk Like a Teenager
For those of you who have dedicated yourselves to ministry over the years, it is evident that God has graciously granted each of us a remarkable opportunity to advance his kingdom through our service. If you are currently in development, as I am, take comfort in knowing that God has specifically chosen you and me … Continue reading Transformative Donor Relationships
“It was going to be for the history books!” My team and I had just closed the door on what could have been the biggest advancement in Christian education in Latin America. After two years of hard work and progress, our dream of opening Karys College died. As the visionary leader for the project, I … Continue reading Rebounding From Failure
I was once asked to describe what I did without disclosing my job title. I did not have to give it much thought and responded quickly, “I care for our employees.” I care for our employees. It sounded simple, but I knew that as an HR professional the stewardship of employees is my primary responsibility. … Continue reading Caring for Employees Matters
Every day I turn on my microphone to bring joy and encourage radio listeners across the nation. It’s a privilege, but it’s not always easy. Before I became a pastor, author, or radio host, I was a professional actor. I loved being able to bring joy to a live audience every night. Playing a character … Continue reading Joy Bringer
“That’s what happens when you study men: you find mare’s nests. I happen to believe that you can’t study men, you can only get to know them, which is quite a different thing.” — C.S. Lewis, That Hideous Strength In this exciting era of constant technological advancement, it’s common to understand innovation to be a … Continue reading Innovation Is More Than Technology
Almost every Christian leader I’ve talked to over the last two years has confessed to me the struggle of leading in this turbulent age. Partisan divides have always marked the American experience, but in recent years, the easy reach of social media, polarizing politicians, and an increasingly hostile culture have created new fault lines and … Continue reading Shepherding Leadership in Turbulent Times
I could feel myself reddening from my neck to my forehead. My palms were sweating, dampening the paper reports in my lap. I was certain the other educators in the room could sense my discomfort. My mind raced. “I’ve taught and tested every grade from kindergarten to community college. I have graduate degrees. Yet, I … Continue reading Building Communities of Belonging
Transition and succession are a normal part of business and ministry. How we handle the process speaks volumes. I have personally transitioned into positions after a former leader resigned, one was fired, another passed away, and most recently, after a beloved 19-year legend retired. Each circumstance was unique, but one thing remained the same. The … Continue reading A Successful Leadership Transition
If I’ve heard this once, I’ve heard it a thousand times: “Alvin, I don’t see a black man; I just see a man.” Though my colleagues mean well when they tell me this, I always inform them that this comment is not warm and hospitable to me! The desire to live in a color blind … Continue reading Toward Reconciliation
