FINAL Nashville AWIL 2025 Program

‭Contents‬ ‭Conference‬‭Agenda‬‭......................................................................................................................‬‭3‬ ‭Welcome‬‭to‬‭Nashville‬‭and‬‭Lipscomb‬‭University‬‭........................................................‬‭4‬ ‭Meet‬‭the‬‭New‬‭CCCU‬‭President‬‭...............................................................................................‬‭5‬ ‭Welcome‬‭from‬‭CCCU‬‭President‬‭David‬‭A.‬‭Hoag‬‭...................................................‬‭5‬ ‭Keynote‬‭Speakers‬‭............................................................................................................................‬‭6‬ ‭Candice‬‭McQueen,‬‭Lipscomb‬‭University‬‭.................................................................‬‭6‬ ‭Sara‬‭Young‬‭Jackson,‬‭Pepperdine‬‭University‬‭.........................................................‬‭7‬ ‭Irene‬‭Neller,‬‭Westmont‬‭College‬‭.......................................................................................‬‭7‬ ‭Candice‬‭Story‬‭Lee,‬‭Vanderbilt‬‭University‬‭.................................................................‬‭8‬ ‭Breakout‬‭Sessions‬‭...........................................................................................................................‬‭9‬ ‭Breakout‬‭Session‬‭1‬‭(10:00-10:50)‬‭.....................................................................................‬‭9‬ ‭Breakout‬‭Session‬‭2‬‭(11:00-11:50)‬‭.....................................................................................‬‭12‬ ‭Tile‬‭Talks‬‭........................................................................................................................................‬‭16‬ ‭Breakout‬‭Session‬‭3‬‭(2:00-2:50)‬‭.....................................................................................‬‭18‬ ‭Tile‬‭Talks‬‭.......................................................................................................................................‬‭20‬ ‭Campus‬‭Map‬‭...................................................................................................................................‬‭23‬ ‭Special‬‭Thanks‬‭................................................................................................................................‬‭24‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭2‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭Conference Agenda‬ ‭George Shinn Center‬ ‭7:30‬

‭Registration Opens‬

‭8:00-8:30‬

‭Breakfast‬

‭8:30-8:45‬

‭Lipscomb Gospel Choir‬ ‭Director: Dr. Aaron Howard,‬‭Lipscomb University‬

‭8:45-9:45‬

‭Welcome and Keynote Address‬ ‭Dr. Candice McQueen,‬‭Lipscomb University‬

‭Ezell Center‬ ‭10:00-10:50‬ ‭Breakout Session/Tile Talks 1*‬ ‭11:00-11:50‬

‭Breakout Session/Tile Talks 2*‬

‭George Shinn Center‬ ‭12:00-12:30‬ ‭Lunch‬ ‭12:30-12:40‬ ‭Special Message from CCCU President‬ ‭Dr. David A. Hoag‬ ‭12:40-1:30‬

‭Keynote Address‬ ‭Dr. Irene Neller,‬‭Westmont College‬‭;‬ ‭Dr. Sara Young Jackson,‬‭Pepperdine University‬

‭1:30-1:45‬

‭AWIL Task Force Acknowledgements‬ ‭and Announcements‬

‭Ezell Center‬ ‭2:00-2:50‬

‭Breakout Session/Tile Talks 3*‬

‭George Shinn Center‬ ‭3:00-3:45‬

‭ eynote Address‬ K ‭Dr. Candice Storey Lee,‬‭Vanderbilt University‬

‭3:45-4:00‬

‭Conference Closing‬

‭* A full list of breakout sessions can be found on page 9.‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭3‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭Welcome to Nashville and‬ ‭Lipscomb University‬ ‭It is a great honor to welcome you to Lipscomb University and to our thriving hometown of‬ ‭Nashville, a city known for its deep roots in higher education and faith. We are pleased to‬ ‭partner with the‬‭Council for Christian Colleges and‬‭Universities‬‭for the‬‭10th Annual‬ ‭Advancing Women in Leadership Conference‬‭.‬ ‭At Lipscomb, we believe that‬‭leadership is both a‬‭calling and a responsibility‬‭, and we are‬ ‭thrilled to host this milestone gathering where women from across Christian higher‬ ‭education can be encouraged, equipped and empowered for greater influence.‬ ‭As we gather today, we recognize the vital role that women in leadership play in advancing‬ ‭the mission of Christian education. The theme of this year’s conference,‬‭MOSAIC –‬ ‭Maximizing Our Strengths through Alliance, Integrity and Character‬‭, reminds us that‬ ‭leadership is not a journey we walk alone, but one strengthened by collaboration and‬ ‭shared vision, and of the importance of lifting each other up as we seek to lead well. We‬ ‭hope this time together will encourage you, challenge you and provide meaningful‬ ‭connections that will help shape your journey.‬ ‭Thank you for the many ways you are advancing Christian higher education and making a‬ ‭lasting impact in the lives of students. Let’s continue to move forward together —‬‭equipping,‬ ‭supporting and elevating one another in leadership for the generations to come!‬ ‭Blessings,‬

‭Dr. Candice McQueen‬ ‭President, Lipscomb University‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭4‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭Meet the New CCCU President‬ ‭On July 15, 2024, the Council for Christian Colleges &‬ ‭Universities announced Dr. David A. Hoag as the‬ ‭organization's eighth president. Prior to this‬ ‭appointment,‬‭Dr. Hoag served as the president of‬ ‭Warner University in Florida. He brings more than 35‬ ‭years of experience in Christian higher education and‬ ‭has served in various leadership positions at four‬ ‭different CCCU institutions, including Warner University,‬ ‭Trinity International University, Greenville University and‬ ‭Asbury University.‬ ‭He has been a longstanding CCCU volunteer, serving as‬ ‭a commissioner for multiple terms, which entails‬ ‭working on behalf of CCCU peers and member‬ ‭institutions. He has served on the executive committee‬ ‭of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida (ICUF), the Council of Presidents for the‬ ‭National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and the executive committee of the Sun‬ ‭Conference.‬

‭Welcome from CCCU President David A. Hoag‬ ‭Welcome to the Advancing Women in Leadership Conference at Lipscomb University! It is an honor to‬ ‭support this important gathering of women who are shaping the future of Christian higher education‬ ‭through their leadership, wisdom, and calling.‬ ‭At the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU), we recognize the vital role women play in‬ ‭advancing Christ-centered education and strengthening our institutions. This conference is an‬ ‭opportunity to learn, connect, and encourage one another as we seek to lead with excellence and‬ ‭faith.‬ ‭I am grateful for Lipscomb University’s leadership in hosting this event and for each of you who have‬ ‭taken the time to invest in your growth and in one another. May this conference inspire and equip you‬ ‭for the important work ahead.‬ ‭Blessings,‬ ‭Dr. David A. Hoag‬ ‭President, CCCU‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭5‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭Keynote Speakers‬ ‭Candice McQueen, Lipscomb University‬ ‭Dr. Candice McQueen began her tenure as Lipscomb‬ ‭University’s 18th president in September 2021. She has‬ ‭more than 25 years of experience in education spanning‬ ‭classroom teaching, higher education leadership, state‬ ‭government and nonprofit sectors.‬ ‭In her first three years in office, McQueen set records‬ ‭including welcoming Lipscomb’s largest three classes of‬ ‭new students and overseeing the three largest giving‬ ‭days in university history. McQueen also launched a‬ ‭compelling new strategic plan, started a new President’s‬ ‭Student Advisory Council, brought back beloved student‬ ‭traditions like Beautiful Day, and opened the new Center‬ ‭for Vocational Discovery. She was also recently named‬ ‭Most Admired CEO by the Nashville Business Journal.‬ ‭Prior to her appointment at Lipscomb, McQueen was CEO‬ ‭of the National Institute of Excellence in Teaching, a‬ ‭national nonprofit founded by the Milken Education‬ ‭Foundation to encourage and incentivize teaching‬ ‭excellence in states, districts, universities and classrooms‬ ‭across the country. From January 2015 - January 2019,‬ ‭McQueen served as Tennessee Commissioner of Education under former Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam.‬ ‭Before becoming the state’s top education official, McQueen served Lipscomb University as dean of‬ ‭the university’s College of Education and as senior vice president, which included oversight of‬ ‭Lipscomb Academy, the institution’s 1,300-student preK2-12th grade college preparatory school. She‬ ‭joined Lipscomb’s education faculty in August 2001, rising to chair of the undergraduate education‬ ‭department before her appointment as dean of the college in 2008. Under her leadership, McQueen‬ ‭led the college through tremendous growth and to state and national recognition for excellence in‬ ‭teacher preparation and teaching outcomes. She was also the founding director of Lipscomb’s Ayers‬ ‭Institute for Teacher Learning and Innovation that launched in 2012.‬ ‭McQueen began her career in education as a teacher in private and public elementary and middle‬ ‭schools in Texas and Nashville, was on the adjunct faculty at Vanderbilt University and was an‬ ‭assistant instructor and supervisor of student teachers at the University of Texas at Austin.‬ ‭McQueen has a Bachelor of Science degree from Lipscomb University, a Master of Education from‬ ‭Vanderbilt University and a Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin. She is an alum of Leadership‬ ‭Tennessee, Leadership Nashville and Chiefs for Change. She serves on the boards of the Nashville‬ ‭Health Care Council, Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, United Way, Goodwill, Tennessee‬ ‭Independent Colleges and Universities and the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching.‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭6‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭Sara Young Jackson, Pepperdine University‬ ‭A lifelong member of the Pepperdine community and Churches of‬ ‭Christ, Dr. Sarah Young Jackson, Pepperdine’s chancellor, received‬ ‭her first introduction to the university when her father, M. Norvel‬ ‭Young, became its third president in 1957. Jackson has continually‬ ‭served Pepperdine University since 1979. Her initial role was the‬ ‭director of Student Life at Seaver College. She later became the‬ ‭founding director of the Pepperdine Volunteer Center. In the late‬ ‭1990's Jackson collaborated with faculty member, Dr. Dennis Lowe,‬ ‭to launch the Center for the Family, later named for Pat and Shirley‬ ‭Boone. She served as the executive director for many years and‬ ‭developed a robust advisory board.‬ ‭In 2004, Jackson began her full time work in the field of‬ ‭development, playing a key role in the "Campaign for Pepperdine"‬ ‭which raised over $470 million. When Jim Gash became president in‬ ‭2019, he asked Jackson to serve as the University's Chancellor, which is the chief ambassador and‬ ‭fundraiser for the University.‬ ‭Jackson holds a bachelor's degree in English from Seaver College and was the recipient of the 2018‬ ‭Distinguished Alumnus Award. She also holds a master's degree in theology with an emphasis in‬ ‭marriage and family counseling from Fuller Theological Seminary. She and her husband, Sam ('75,‬ ‭Ed.D. '84), are the parents of Jessica ('09), Joseph, and Madeline ('13).‬

‭Irene Neller, Westmont College‬ ‭Dr. Irene Neller became Westmont’s first vice president for‬ ‭enrollment, marketing and communications in December 2017 after‬ ‭serving 26 years at Biola University and four years at Fuller‬ ‭Theological Seminary, also as the first vice president of marketing.‬ ‭She has been a career professional in Christian higher education‬ ‭since 1987.‬ ‭Neller is recognized for building new strategic approaches‬ ‭combining enrollment and marketing and earning more than 60‬ ‭industry awards. A graduate from Bethany College with a degree in‬ ‭communications, she went on to earn a master’s in‬ ‭communications promotions management at CSU Fullerton. She‬ ‭chaired the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU)‬ ‭national committee for communication officers, served on the‬ ‭commission in various roles for over ten years, and has been a leader with CCCU's professional‬ ‭development institutes including MELDI, WALI, and LDI. She is committed to mentoring students and‬ ‭aspiring leaders, developed a new leadership program at Westmont, and is highly involved in the‬ ‭Westmont Women's Leadership Council now in its eigth year.‬ ‭Neller is one of the leading architects of the national annual conference for Advancing Women in‬ ‭Leadership - celebrating its 10th anniversary - and is passionate about developing programs that‬ ‭create pathways to college for diverse students.‬ ‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭7‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭Candice Story Lee, Vanderbilt University‬ ‭Dr. Candice Storey Lee is Vanderbilt’s vice chancellor for‬ ‭athletics and university affairs and athletic director.‬ ‭Named to the position on May 21, 2020, she is Vanderbilt’s‬ ‭first female athletic director and the first Black woman to‬ ‭lead an SEC athletics program.‬ ‭Lee has spearheaded the Vandy United campaign,‬ ‭raising over $300 million for athletic facilities and‬ ‭programming. She has also introduced women’s‬ ‭volleyball as a varsity sport (debuting in 2025) and made‬ ‭several key coaching hires.‬ ‭A former Vanderbilt women’s basketball player, Lee has‬ ‭been part of the Vanderbilt community since 1996. She‬ ‭holds three degrees from Vanderbilt’s Peabody College‬ ‭and began her administrative career in 2002. She was‬ ‭named deputy athletic director in 2016, overseeing daily‬ ‭operations and serving as sports administrator for‬ ‭football and women’s basketball.‬ ‭Lee was a four-year letter winner, team captain, and‬ ‭five-time SEC Academic Honor Roll selection. She helped‬ ‭Vanderbilt win an SEC Tournament championship in 2002‬ ‭and was inducted into the Huntsville-Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame in 2022.‬ ‭Beyond Vanderbilt, Lee is a national leader in college athletics, having served on the SEC Council on‬ ‭Racial Equity and Social Justice, the Black Athletic Directors Alliance, and various NCAA committees.‬ ‭She was named Athletic Director of the Year at the Black Student-Athlete Summit in 2022 and has‬ ‭been recognized as a Sports Business Journal “Power Player” and an Adidas “NEXT UP” honoree.‬ ‭A dedicated Nashville community leader, she has served on the boards of the Tennessee Sports Hall of‬ ‭Fame, Nashville Sports Council, and YWCA of Middle Tennessee. She is a Peabody Distinguished‬ ‭Alumna, a Leadership Nashville graduate, and a Vanderbilt Leadership Academy alumna.‬ ‭Under Lee’s leadership, Vanderbilt teams have won six national championships and more than 20‬ ‭conference titles. Student-athletes have also excelled academically, posting a cumulative GPA above‬ ‭3.0 for 29 consecutive semesters and maintaining top-tier NCAA Academic Progress Rates.‬ ‭Lee is married to Sean Lee, executive director of a Middle Tennessee housing authority, and they have‬ ‭an adult son, Andrew.‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭8‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭Breakout Sessions‬ ‭Breakout Session 1 (10:00-10:50)‬ ‭Cultivating Allies: Intentionally Creating Space for Collegiality and Friendship‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 363‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Amy Kovach Ph.D., Gillian Stewart-Wells‬‭Ph.D., Aly Williams Ph.D., Sarah Drivdahl, Ph.D.‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Mt. Vernon Nazarene University‬ ‭For many leaders in higher education, days are filled to capacity with projects, meetings,‬ ‭emails, and tending – as we should be – to our teams. Over the past few years, four‬ ‭executive-level university leaders at different institutions discovered unique and intentional‬ ‭strategies to forge their connections with each other in ways that strengthened them as‬ ‭leaders on their own campuses. These female leaders have built a network of support through‬ ‭regularly scheduled gatherings (live and virtual) and impromptu encouraging check-ins. In‬ ‭this session, the speakers will share tools for finding and strengthening conference‬ ‭participants’ own alliances; participants will be invited to share their successful strategies.‬

‭Ripple Effects of Leadership: What Will Be Your Emotional Legacy?‬ ‭Integrity - Ezell 147‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Pamela Scretchen and Gaby Aguirre-Iriarte‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Lipscomb University‬ ‭Your strength as a leader lights the way for others, yet beyond your visible impact lies‬ ‭something more profound - the emotional footprints you leave behind. Every leader leaves an‬ ‭emotional legacy - a blueprint that shapes how others feel, think, and lead in their own lives.‬ ‭Through the lens of Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), we'll explore the invisible‬ ‭barriers between you and your inner peace. Together, we'll examine how our own patterns of‬ ‭stress, drive for perfectionism, and hidden anxieties can silently flow into the lives of those we‬ ‭love most, especially our children. You’ll discover practical tools to transform challenging‬ ‭thoughts and interfering behaviors into action steps toward peace.‬

‭ levation‬ ‭is‬ ‭Not‬ ‭Ordination:‬ ‭Investigating‬ ‭Ties‬ ‭Between‬ ‭the‬ ‭Theological‬ ‭View‬ E ‭Towards‬‭the‬‭Ordination‬‭of‬‭Women,‬‭and‬‭the‬‭Lack‬‭of‬‭Women‬‭in‬‭Leadership‬‭Roles‬ ‭at CCCU Institutions‬ ‭Integrity - Ezell 301‬ ‭Presenter:‬‭Ellen Kaminski‬ ‭Institution:‬‭California Baptist University‬ ‭The institutions of the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) enjoy support from‬ ‭a variety of protestant denominations. These denominations agree on the foundational‬ ‭principle of faith in the redeeming power of Jesus Christ, Our Savior and Lord. However, many‬ ‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭9‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭differences arise regarding the proper practice of one's faith. In particular, the ordination of‬ ‭women is one of the more pronounced differentiators of each denomination's practice‬ ‭guidelines. This theological principle has, understandably, limited the growth of women to the‬ ‭upper echelons of denominations. Even though these rules do not directly translate to the‬ ‭prevention of women to leadership in organizations, this research evaluates the correlation‬ ‭between the views regarding the ordination of women and their appearance in the leadership‬ ‭roles of such institutions. By analyzing these connections, this study highlights the implications‬ ‭of such denominational restrictions and how light on the subject can catalyze change.‬

‭Exhibiting Character Through Relational Leadership and a Rhetoric of Respect‬ ‭Character - Ezell 136‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Andrea Bishop, Ph.D.‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Harding University‬ ‭Relational Leadership emerged from a 1995 study conducted by Helen Regan and Gwen‬ ‭Brooks, who investigated the experiences and accounts of female leaders in educational‬ ‭settings. Relational Leadership reduces the emphasis on a single “great person” set in a hero or‬ ‭savior position. Instead, it underlines how leaders engineer relationships, encourage‬ ‭collaboration, and value diverse ideas and contributions.‬

‭Maximizing Our Strengths to Accomplish Our Goals‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 109‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭April Harris Akinloye‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Pepperdine University‬ ‭During this session, participants will identify their strengths and those of their team members.‬ ‭They will generate specific ideas for strategic, strength-focused collaboration through‬ ‭exercises, discussions, and reflection. Participants will also receive a unique tool to help them‬ ‭enhance their personal and team goal achievement.‬

‭Deliver Deep Feedback to Foster Deeper Employee Growth‬ ‭Integrity - Ezell 107‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Donna M. Elkins‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Campbellsville University‬ ‭Both formal evaluations and informal feedback can be challenging for even seasoned leaders‬ ‭to deliver effectively and appropriately. This session will discuss practical and effective ways to‬ ‭provide evaluative and feedback that goes beyond the superficial to help employees grow.‬ ‭Based on concepts and theories of communication as well as deep feedback for learning, this‬ ‭interactive session will allow participants to explore when to give different types of feedback,‬ ‭how to address behavior and change, and practice wording the delivery of difficult feedback‬ ‭to employees. The session will end with tips for accepting and incorporating feedback and‬ ‭evaluation into your own growth as a leader.‬ ‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭10‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭ arnessing AI for Personal Empowerment: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in‬ H ‭Leadership‬ ‭Character - Ezell 138‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Sarah Gibson‬ ‭Institution:‬ ‭Lipscomb University‬ ‭Drawing on research and personal experience, this interactive presentation delves into how‬ ‭artificial intelligence (AI) can be a transformative tool for personal growth and confidence‬ ‭building. Attendees will learn AI basics and prompt engineering, exploring practical ways to‬ ‭use AI as a mentor and sounding board for self-reflection and leadership skill enhancement.‬ ‭The session demonstrates how AI applications can challenge negative self-perceptions,‬ ‭simulate leadership scenarios, and provide personalized development resources. By‬ ‭integrating AI into their leadership journey, women can cultivate essential character traits such‬ ‭as resilience, authenticity, and self-assurance. We will also discuss ethical considerations,‬ ‭including maintaining integrity and privacy when using AI tools. Participants will leave‬ ‭equipped with actionable strategies and resources to leverage AI for overcoming imposter‬ ‭syndrome, empowering them to lead with greater confidence and impact in higher education.‬ ‭Attendees need no prior AI experience before attending this session.‬

‭Stronger Together: A Vision of Collaborative Success to Accomplish Our Goals‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 207‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Donna Arnds and Jenn Graffius‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Azusa Pacific University‬ ‭What does it mean to be stronger together? A little over two years ago, two APU colleagues -‬ ‭Donna Arnds, Director of Foundation and Corporate Relations and Dr. Jenn Graffius, Executive‬ ‭Director of the Center for Vocational Ministry - began a partnership defined by shared‬ ‭backgrounds, mutual goals, and lively conversations about challenges and possibilities. This‬ ‭narrative begins with a question: What if? Facing internal competition and tough decisions, we‬ ‭found strength in collaboration, crafting a pathway that fused vision, trust, and a desire for‬ ‭impact. Our session will engage participants in reflecting on their own journeys, inviting them‬ ‭to consider their accomplishments and envision what's next. Together, we’ll see that true‬ ‭partnership fuels creativity, purpose, and impact.‬

‭Fiercely Focused Faith: Women Living Christian Values in Higher Education Leadership‬ ‭Integrity - Ezell 205‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Deborah Erickson, Jana Hunzicker, Rachel‬‭Borton, Amanda Scott‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Bradley University‬ ‭While the literature provides information regarding the influence of emotional labor on women in the‬ ‭workplace, little has been described specific to women leaders in Christian higher education. Many‬ ‭women leaders are effective and successful regardless of multiple and persistent stressors that create‬ ‭emotional labor. Emphasizing the phenomenon of emotional labor in the workplace, this presentation‬ ‭will report a qualitative, empirical study that tells the stories of how six women’s lived experiences have‬ ‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭11‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭influenced their approaches to leadership in higher education. While the six women leaders in this study‬ ‭faced external influences that were sometimes positive and sometimes negative, how the women‬ ‭interpreted and used these experiences to propel themselves forward in life and in leadership made all‬ ‭the difference. Emphasis will be placed on comparing the journeys of women leaders from the Bible,‬ ‭including Esther, Ruth, Mary, and Martha, with the six women leaders in our study.‬

‭Mosaic and Allyship: Strategies for Creating and Sustaining Inclusive Excellence‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 232‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Kim Okesson‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Asbury University‬ ‭In today's diverse workplace, allyship is essential for empowering women leaders and‬ ‭advancing equity. This session will delve into the transformative impact of allyship on Christian‬ ‭college campuses, focusing on how individuals and organizations can actively support‬ ‭diversity and inclusion. Participants will explore key strategies for effective allyship, including‬ ‭recognizing and confronting biases, advocating for equitable opportunities, and fostering an‬ ‭environment where diverse voices are heard and valued. We will examine how our own cultural‬ ‭competence is critical to the work of allyship. Using research and case studies, the session will‬ ‭highlight the tangible benefits of a diverse leadership team and the role of allyship in‬ ‭achieving this goal. Attendees will leave with practical tools to become stronger allies,‬ ‭fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusivity that supports and elevates marginalized‬ ‭voices, programs, and individuals.‬

‭Practical Plans for Publishing & Presenting‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 234‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Jill Swisher‬ ‭Institution:‬ ‭Northwestern College Iowa‬ ‭Learn practical plans for the task of writing for journal publication or presentation. An‬ ‭academic dean discusses actionable strategies for starting or expanding your scholarship‬ ‭and how you can sharpen your own work and contribute to your field.‬

‭Breakout Session 2 (11:00-11:50)‬ ‭Imposters‬ ‭and‬ ‭Identity:‬ ‭Bringing‬ ‭our‬ ‭Best‬ ‭Selves‬ ‭into‬ ‭Every‬ ‭Situation‬ ‭Through‬ ‭ wareness, Self-compassion and Self-care‬ A ‭Integrity - Ezell 147‬ ‭Presenter:‬‭Lonnie Cochran Ed.D., Contessa Sanders‬‭Ed.D.‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Lipscomb University‬ ‭Imposter syndrome is the belief that you don’t measure up in spite of evidence of success. Yet,‬ ‭it is more than mere doubt in one’s abilities, it is an identity issue (Josa, 2019). This‬ ‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭12‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭phenomenon impacts men and women alike; however, the impacts are elevated for women‬ ‭as they rise to higher levels of leadership. Christian higher education institutions are not‬ ‭immune to this phenomenon. As institutions where women have been historically‬ ‭underrepresented in senior leadership, the impacts of imposter syndrome are greater.‬ ‭Imposter syndrome can keep aspiring leaders from attaining their potential, which can‬ ‭negatively impact team dynamics and contribute to burnout and health issues. Self-criticism,‬ ‭a driver of imposter syndrome, can be silenced through awareness, self-compassion (Warren‬ ‭et al., 2016), and identity (Warner & Coursey, 2023). Join us to learn more about how we can‬ ‭bring our best selves into every situation and promote flourishing in ourselves and others.‬

‭Grout Between the Tiles: Finding a Space for Women's Voice on a Conservative‬ ‭Christian Campus‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 363‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Nichole LaGrow‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Martin Luther College‬ ‭“Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they‬ ‭entrusted much, they will demand the more" - Luke 12:48. While our faith is sure, it often feels‬ ‭like our institution of higher education is constantly shifting, demanding more and more of our‬ ‭faculty and staff. Like grout, we are tasked with the responsibility of holding it all together as we‬ ‭support new initiatives and re-envision what we already offer. Recognizing the growing stress‬ ‭in our shared experiences, we began an exploration of what it would mean to create a‬ ‭mentoring and professional development group for women across our campus community.‬ ‭Together we have found a way to grow into the leaders we need to be for our campus and the‬ ‭broader church community. We’d love to share our story of developing a community of‬ ‭practice with you.‬

‭Rising Together: Reflections on Developing A Campus-Wide Resilience Program‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 138‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Connie Horton, Stacey Lee Gobir‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Pepperdine University‬ ‭Pepperdine University’s Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Connie Horton, will reflect on her‬ ‭journey in founding and developing the campus-wide Resilience-Informed Skills Education‬ ‭(RISE) Program. Launched in 2019, RISE was created as a proactive initiative to address the‬ ‭growing mental health challenges faced by college students. The program reaches over 2,000‬ ‭individuals within the Pepperdine community each year, and Dr. Horton’s proprietary‬ ‭curriculum is now being used at multiple CCCU institutions. Dr. Horton will be joined by Stacey‬ ‭Lee Gobir, Director of the RISE Program, who will discuss the program’s resources and impact.‬ ‭Together, Horton and Gobir will invite participants to "RISE" together by engaging in practices‬ ‭and skill-building to enhance their own resilience and how they can create a ripple effect of‬ ‭resilience on their own campuses by channeling the values of alliance, integrity, and character.‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭13‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭ omen at the Well: Building Inclusive Leadership as Christian Women in‬ W ‭Diverse Workspaces‬ ‭Character - Ezell 301‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Erika K. Stanley Wesley‬ ‭Institution:‬ ‭Abilene Christian University‬ ‭As Christian women in leadership positions, fostering inclusion and bridging divides among‬ ‭women of diverse racial backgrounds within corporate and nonprofit sectors is both an‬ ‭opportunity and a calling. This presentation explores how actionable strategies rooted in‬ ‭servant principles and evidence-based practices derived from positive leadership can be‬ ‭used to create inclusive, equitable spaces where every woman can thrive. Citing studies from‬ ‭sources such as the Harvard Business Review and Pew Research Center, I will examine the‬ ‭distinct challenges women of color face, from microaggressions to systemic‬ ‭underrepresentation, and the role inclusive leaders play in addressing these. Data from‬ ‭McKinsey's "Women in the Workplace" report underscores the positive impact of inclusive‬ ‭policies on team performance and morale. Drawing on biblical teachings about love, justice,‬ ‭and unity, I will discuss the influence of empathy, mentorship, and advocacy in building a‬ ‭culture that values every voice, ultimately contributing to sustainable, inclusive organizations.‬

‭ Here I Am. Send Me!”: Servant Leadership in Times of Distress and Uncertainty‬ “ ‭Integrity - Ezell 109‬ ‭Presenter:‬‭Marilyn Anderson Rhames‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Baylor University‬ ‭The mark of a servant leader is when he or she responds to the Lord’s call, “Here I am. Send Me”‬ ‭(Isaiah 6:8). Reflecting on my leadership journey - A-list celebrity parties, a close call on 9/11,‬ ‭domestic violence and divorce, invitations to the White House, a book and a Ph.D. - I realize‬ ‭that God has always been the main protagonist in my story, not me. This presentation reveals‬ ‭what can happen when a flawed but faithful follower of Christ says “yes” to God’s call and lets‬ ‭His light shine amid difficult and distressing times (Matthew 5:14-16). As I weave in and out of‬ ‭my personal testimony, I will invite the audience to recall times when they, too, said “yes” to‬ ‭God and the blessings that followed. As servant leaders, we can be confident that the Lord’s‬ ‭mercy and grace will accomplish His purposes in and through us.‬

‭Mentoring as a Mutual Journey: The Two-Way Exchange of Growth and Wisdom‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 136‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Tammy S. Cox, Kendra Ray‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Missouri Baptist University‬ ‭The topic of mentoring has been extensively studied across various disciplines, and several‬ ‭works contribute key insights into the theory and practice of effective mentoring. The books‬ ‭"The New Mentors and Protégés" by Linda Jones-Phillips, "Spiritual Mothering" by Susan Hunt,‬ ‭and "Mentoring 101" by John Maxwell offer valuable perspectives on the subject, each‬ ‭emphasizing different aspects of the mentoring process. "Mentoring", as described in these‬ ‭three works, is a dynamic and evolving process that involves mutual growth, shared wisdom,‬ ‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭14‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭and a collaborative partnership between mentor and mentee. Whether framed in terms of‬ ‭spiritual guidance, leadership development, or cultural competence, mentoring is shown to be‬ ‭an essential tool for personal and professional transformation. The theories and data‬ ‭supporting these perspectives underscore the critical role of mentoring in fostering lifelong‬ ‭learning, empathy, and leadership development across diverse contexts.‬

‭Who Writes Your Story and How Do You Help Others Write Theirs?‬ ‭Character - Ezell 107‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Kendra Tankersley-Davis‬ ‭Institution:‬ ‭Vanguard University‬ ‭Have you ever considered who writes your story? As women of faith, we often walk through the‬ ‭world with a narrative that may not belong to us. Stereotypes such as being judgmental and‬ ‭unrealistic, to name a few. Also, that we are more likely to be in supportive roles, when in reality‬ ‭there are many women of faith who have been leaders. Consider the woman at the well, Mary‬ ‭the mother of Jesus, or Rahab to name a few. I will discuss the outstanding leadership skills of‬ ‭women in faith, the benefits of networking and building strong community relations, how to‬ ‭integrate faith in our inclusive decision making while respecting others, finding and reflecting‬ ‭joy in our careers, how to build awareness of our identify, how we reflect who we truly are, and‬ ‭how we need to write our own story and support other women in writing theirs.‬

‭The Professional You: Elevating Individual and Collective Impact‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 207‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Jamie Brownlee-Turgeon, Holly Irwin‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Point Loma Nazarene University‬ ‭This presentation tells the personal stories of two high-ranking women who have used the‬ ‭Professional You model to enhance their professional path. By strengthening the alliance, they‬ ‭have provided each other support for navigating challenges, including thriving in a‬ ‭male-dominated industry. This session emphasizes the power of inclusive leadership to‬ ‭connect and uplift others, creating a culture where every professional has a place to grow and‬ ‭lead. Participants will learn how to apply the Professional You model to their own leadership‬ ‭journeys, strengthen professional networks and alliances, and understand the value of‬ ‭collaboration, shared learning, and mutual support. These tools will help amplify their voices‬ ‭within their organizations, open doors for career advancement, and expand their influence‬ ‭across higher education campuses.‬

‭ earing the Whisper of God‬ H ‭Integrity - Ezell 205‬ ‭Presenter:‬‭Peggy Banks‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Western Seminary‬ ‭What is keeping us as leaders from hearing the whispers of God? Are other voices too loud?‬ ‭What if we could schedule a Whispering Week each year seeking only to hear God's still small‬ ‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭15‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭voice? In this workshop, we will consider ways to incorporate a posture of praise and devotion‬ ‭into our daily, monthly, and yearly schedules. We will define the voices that are the loudest in‬ ‭our daily lives and potentially lead us in the wrong direction for ministry and life. We will look at‬ ‭the ways God's quiet voice was able to help the leaders even when they wanted to give up on‬ ‭the mission. We will set goals for meeting with God each day, month, quarter, or year to hear‬ ‭His voice in guiding us in the direction we should go next.‬

‭Tile Talks‬ ‭ ile Talk Part 1 (11:00-11:25)‬ T ‭Partnership and Hospitality in the University Library‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 232‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Denise Nelson‬ ‭Institution:‬ ‭Point Loma Nazarene University‬ ‭In 2022, the largest open study space in the PLNU library was renovated to allow for the‬ ‭integration of Tutorial Services and the university's nascent writing center. Rather than‬ ‭simply locating these important services adjacent to dedicated library space, the‬ ‭reconfiguration created a joint use environment where writing support, tutorial sessions,‬ ‭and research help take place in overlapping, shared spaces. By committing to a‬ ‭collaborative ethic, the leaders of all three areas have established an environment that is‬ ‭hospitable to students with a range of needs, where students can be smoothly referred‬ ‭from one service to another, and where help-seeking is visible and normalized.‬

‭ ile Talk Part 2 (11:25-11:50)‬ T ‭Stewarding Collaboration: Cultivating an Environment of Shalom‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 232‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Julia Hurlow‬ ‭Institution:‬ ‭Taylor University‬ ‭When was the last time you took a seat at a meeting when a question was asked that‬ ‭immediately evoked tension? How have you seen a team engage in disagreements‬ ‭gracefully? Do you feel tension in your body when conflict arises in the decision-making‬ ‭process? The late hospitality researcher, Dr. Christine Pohl has written, “It is impossible to‬ ‭build community if people are not willing to stay in conversation or ‘at the table’ during‬ ‭times of significant disagreement.” Cultivating an environment of peace requires‬ ‭commitment, energy, and resources to be a place that can cultivate shalom.‬

‭Tile Talk Part 1 (11:00-11:25)‬ ‭ eeds‬‭of‬‭Change:‬‭Fostering‬‭Understanding‬‭Across‬‭Differences‬‭Through‬‭Five‬ S ‭Themes‬ ‭Character - Ezell 234‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Abby Bell‬ ‭Institution:‬ ‭Lipscomb University‬ ‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭16‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭This study examines how churches cultivate understanding and build bridges across‬ ‭differences in their congregants through five key themes identified in previous qualitative‬ ‭research: relational connections, introspection, redemptive action, curiosity, and ongoing‬ ‭reframing. Grounded in the biblical mandate of Micah 6:8 to "do justice, love mercy, and‬ ‭walk humbly with God," this research investigates how different church contexts provide‬ ‭practical tools for building unified communities. The study hypothesizes that congregants‬ ‭who have the opportunity to practice these key themes in their churches or communities‬ ‭will demonstrate stronger indicators of cross-cultural understanding and engagement.‬ ‭Additional hypotheses predict that membership at a multi-racial church without the‬ ‭presence of the key themes will have different outcomes than membership at a‬ ‭multi-racial church where these themes are actively practiced. Furthermore, the study‬ ‭hypothesizes that membership at a demographically homogeneous congregation that‬ ‭promotes these key themes will also show positive outcomes in building cross-cultural‬ ‭understanding. This qualitative study surveys congregants from multiracial churches and‬ ‭demographically homogeneous congregations to measure their engagement with these‬ ‭five themes and their perspectives on cultural differences. The findings offer actionable‬ ‭strategies for Christian leaders to build unified communities while highlighting the unique‬ ‭challenges and opportunities in different church settings.‬

‭Tile Talk Part 2 (11:25-11:50)‬ ‭ mpowering‬ ‭Leadership:‬ ‭Building‬ ‭Policy-Driven‬ ‭Alliances‬ ‭in‬ ‭Christian‬ E ‭Higher Education to Overcome Barriers for Women‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 234‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Carol Lusk‬ ‭Institution:‬ ‭Lipscomb University‬ ‭Women remain grossly underrepresented in leadership positions, a disparity that requires‬ ‭additional research to understand underlying factors, including the unexamined influence‬ ‭of religiosity. An explanatory sequential mixed methodological approach revealed unique‬ ‭insights. The quantitative analysis suggested that religiosity contributed to the leadership‬ ‭journey for men, but the relationships were more complex for women. Religious women‬ ‭were more motivated to lead than non-religious women. However, non-religious women‬ ‭attained higher leadership positions than religious women. The qualitative phase‬ ‭highlighted three processual pathways that aided the leadership journey (flexible‬ ‭schedule- one partner chooses a more flexible job to be the primary caregiver, flexible‬ ‭growth- a career with a flexible pace and path, and forge through- adherence to the rigid,‬ ‭traditional career ladder). Analysis revealed the synergistic relationship between personal‬ ‭resources and organizational policies, particularly for women navigating structural‬ ‭inequities. Several promising avenues emerged, focused on an alliance between‬ ‭organizations and their employees to advance women in leadership.‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭17‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭Breakout Session 3 (2:00-2:50)‬ ‭Amp Up Your Personal and Professional Brand‬ ‭Character - Ezell 147‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Irene Neller, Michele Szczypka‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Westmont College and Stamats Communications‬ ‭Be known and recognized for who you are and what you want to stand for. Knowing who you‬ ‭are, and communicating it well through a carefully planned and thoughtful way, and modeling‬ ‭the best practices of a trusted brand, empowers your leadership and elevates executive‬ ‭presence. Let's talk about crafting a personal and professional brand of excellence. You'll leave‬ ‭empowered knowing how to represent your skills, strengths, credentials, interests, passions,‬ ‭values, and beliefs.‬

‭ entorship: The Why, What and How‬ M ‭Character - Ezell 363‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Leanne W. Smith‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Lipscomb University‬ ‭Mentoring relationships provide fertile soil for growing stronger together, living out our values,‬ ‭and making a mark on both current and future generations. Drawing on resources used from‬ ‭teaching Mentorship and Women in Business classes for the past several years (and making a‬ ‭distinction between mentorship, sponsorship and allyship), this presentation will showcase‬ ‭WHY mentoring relationships are so critical, WHAT the most effective mentoring relationships‬ ‭look like, and HOW we can ensure that our organizations, families, and religious institutions‬ ‭thrive through an intentional investment of our wisdom capital into the personal and‬ ‭professional lives of younger generations, particularly women.‬

‭Cooling Down the Stigma: Supporting Female Faculty Through Menopause‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 301‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Lindsay Fahnestock, Carolyn Heine, Sophia‬‭Mun, and Amy Stumpf‬ ‭Institution:‬‭California Baptist University‬ ‭Attendees will learn about the lesser-known symptoms of menopause that have significant‬ ‭effects on faculty work requirements, particularly scholarship. They will consider what they,‬ ‭their colleagues, and their administrators can do to support colleagues who find that their‬ ‭work is impacted by menopause. This session will first describe how menopause symptoms‬ ‭can impact teaching, scholarship, and service. Second, we will explore with female attendees‬ ‭how these findings align with their own experiences and how it has or could affect career‬ ‭advancement. Finally, we will discuss institutional challenges in engaging with this issue and‬ ‭brainstorm how leaders can create campus cultures that support the specific challenges‬ ‭faced by female faculty in the menopause experience. We strongly encourage men to attend‬ ‭and engage in this last discussion!‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭18‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭ alking the Talk: Translating Values into Leadership Action‬ W ‭Integrity - Ezell 136‬ ‭Presenter:‬‭Lynette Austin‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Lipscomb University‬ ‭In leadership roles, the alignment between expressed values and observed actions directly‬ ‭impacts team trust and effectiveness. This interactive session guides participants through a‬ ‭structured process of identifying their core values and developing practical strategies for‬ ‭consistent value-aligned leadership. Participants will identify personal core values using‬ ‭guided reflection techniques, develop frameworks for translating values into observable‬ ‭actions, create accountability structures for maintaining value-aligned leadership, and design‬ ‭strategies for rebuilding trust when values and actions misalign.‬

I‭ n Their Own Words - CDOs in the CCCU‬ ‭Character - Ezell 109‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Kim Okesson‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Asbury University‬ ‭The purpose of this study was to discover the communication strategies of Chief Diversity‬ ‭Officers (CDOs) employed at primarily white member institutions of the Council for Christian‬ ‭Colleges and Universities (CCCU). The theoretical framework of Mark Orbe’s Co-Cultural Theory‬ ‭was utilized to explore how CDOs communicate and describe their communicative‬ ‭experiences. Co-cultural theory considers the intersection of communication, culture, and‬ ‭power and illuminates communicative practices of co-cultural group members when‬ ‭communicating with dominant cultural group members. This study also expanded co-cultural‬ ‭theory through the discovery of co-cultural communication tactics not previously articulated.‬ ‭In-depth interviews with CDOs provided the participants the opportunity to describe their‬ ‭communication experiences in their own words, answering a call in the literature for research‬ ‭to be conducted with diversity practitioners. The findings from this study concluded that CDOs‬ ‭do employ strategic co-cultural communicative practices when engaging with dominant‬ ‭culture group members to reach their diversity initiative goals on their campuses. Additionally,‬ ‭the findings informed theoretical and practical recommendations for CDOs, college‬ ‭administrators, and the CCCU. Finally, recommendations for further research are discussed.‬

‭Serving Christ by Serving Others: Servant Leadership through Service-Learning‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 107‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Joan Kaufman‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Judson University‬ ‭Service-learning is an effective and innovative teaching method which replicates real-life work‬ ‭experiences that increase student learning outcomes. In this session, participants will learn‬ ‭how to identify and define service-learning opportunities at their university and to understand‬ ‭the methods needed to orchestrate a project that meets curricular goals for the major they‬ ‭teach. Several successful examples will be shared with an explanation of procedures and steps‬ ‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭19‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭followed, linking the positive impact of the project on student learning outcomes. Interactive‬ ‭sessions will aid instructors in identifying and constructing their own service-learning project at‬ ‭their university.‬

‭From‬ ‭Inspiration‬ ‭to‬ ‭Action:‬ ‭Using‬ ‭Generative‬ ‭AI‬ ‭to‬ ‭Explore‬ ‭and‬ ‭Articulate‬‭Your‬ ‭Purpose‬ ‭Integrity - Ezell 207‬ ‭Presenter:‬‭Molly J. Wickam‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Bethel University - St. Paul‬ ‭In an era where leadership demands authenticity, resilience, and vision, how do we define the‬ ‭guiding principles that keep us grounded and aligned with our purpose? This interactive‬ ‭session will explore a unique approach: using generative AI to identify, articulate, and live by‬ ‭principles that resonate with our deepest values. Together, we’ll leverage generative AI to turn‬ ‭abstract ideas into tangible, actionable guiding statements that attendees can carry forward‬ ‭in their careers and daily lives. To get the most from this session, attendees should bring a‬ ‭device (laptop or smartphone) with internet access and the generative AI of their choice (i.e.‬ ‭ChatGPT, CoPilot, Gemini).‬

‭Synergy in Action: How Women Can Elevate People and Partnership‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 138‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Brittany Sansagraw,‬‭Ashlee Johnson‬ ‭Institution:‬‭Missouri Baptist University‬ ‭This session will explore how two women leaders at a Christian university harnessed their‬ ‭experiences from the CCCU Leadership Development Institute to initiate impactful campus‬ ‭programs and partnerships. By leveraging their insights and skills, they partnered together to‬ ‭create initiatives that advance institutional influence and empower their fellow employees.‬ ‭Attendees will learn about specific programs, including a summer series focused on‬ ‭professional development, initiatives that elevate other women in leadership and mentorship‬ ‭opportunities—all designed to foster growth, connection, and community across campus. This‬ ‭session will provide practical strategies for building collaborative partnerships and developing‬ ‭programs that inspire, support, and strengthen university communities.‬

‭Tile Talks‬ ‭ ile Talk Part 1 (2:00-2:25)‬ T ‭Leading Together: Building Bridges with the Next Generation‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 232‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Audra Pleasant, Amy Cox, Jaime Murphy,‬‭Kathy Helpenstill, April Fatula‬ ‭Institution:‬ ‭Harding University‬ ‭This TILE talk session brings together faculty and recent graduates from Harding University‬ ‭who are partnering to cultivate the next generation of female leaders on campus.‬ ‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭20‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭Participants will share examples of inclusive classroom strategies and mentorship‬ ‭successes that extend beyond graduation, fostering professional collaborations. The‬ ‭session will also highlight institutional strategies for maintaining relationships with‬ ‭promising alumni and creating pathways for their return to campus as faculty and staff.‬ ‭Join us to exchange ideas, celebrate achievements, and explore how we can collectively‬ ‭shape a brighter future for female leadership in higher education.‬

‭ ile Talk Part 2 (2:25-2:50)‬ T ‭Young Women SHOULD Lead‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 232‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Dr. Jamie Sanfilippo, Dean; Alison Gambill,‬‭AWIL Student Rep.‬ ‭Institution:‬ ‭Huntington University Arizona and Westmont‬‭College‬ ‭In order to develop a track of AWIL for young women, we must understand what they need‬ ‭and how to best serve them. Thus, to gather young women who desire to lead and to hear‬ ‭directly from the source how they can best be informed and encouraged would aid in our‬ ‭creation of a track suited for young women to push them to serve and lead with‬ ‭confidence.‬

‭ ile Talk Part 1 (2:00-2:25)‬ T ‭Guided‬ ‭by‬ ‭Faith:‬ ‭Aligning‬ ‭Values,‬ ‭Leadership,‬ ‭and‬ ‭Balance‬ ‭for‬ ‭Women‬ ‭in‬ ‭Leadership‬ ‭Alliance - Ezell 234‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Alicia Edmonds‬ ‭Institution:‬ ‭California Baptist University‬ ‭This Tile talk examines the foundational role of scripture in guiding core values and‬ ‭developing a faith-centered leadership style. Grounded in passages such as Micah 6:8,‬ ‭“To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly,” this session explores how faith-based values‬ ‭can inform ethical decision-making, foster integrity, and encourage balanced,‬ ‭purpose-driven leadership. Studies indicate that values-driven leadership not only‬ ‭enhances personal fulfillment but also positively impacts team morale and organizational‬ ‭culture (Bass & Steidlmeier, 1999; Fry, 2003). Through interactive reflection and discussion,‬ ‭participants will explore strategies for integrating scriptural principles into their leadership‬ ‭styles, aligning personal faith with professional responsibilities to achieve sustainable‬ ‭work-life balance. Finally, the session addresses the importance of mentorship and‬ ‭supportive networks, encouraging current leaders to foster environments of trust,‬ ‭encouragement, and collaboration for aspiring leaders (Luthans & Avolio, 2003; Northouse,‬ ‭2018). Attendees will leave with actionable insights to implement in their professional and‬ ‭personal lives.‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭21‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭ ile Talk Part 2 (2:25-2:50)‬ T ‭She Leads Business Education: A Phenomenological Study of Career‬ ‭Development of Female Deans Leading AACSB-Accredited Business‬ ‭ chools in America‬ S ‭Character - Ezell 234‬ ‭Presenters:‬‭Rachel Guettler‬ ‭Institution:‬ ‭Pepperdine University‬ ‭As women advance into leadership roles in America, there is a demand for career‬ ‭development research to deepen understanding of strategies for overcoming obstacles‬ ‭and maximizing opportunities. This 2022 study investigated 13.4% of the population of‬ ‭female Deans of AACSB-accredited business schools in America through qualitative‬ ‭inquiry. This study reveals insight for career advancement among various positions in‬ ‭academia with some roles offering more relevant experience than others. Additionally, this‬ ‭research uncovers how motherhood can offer a rewarding and grounding identity for‬ ‭leaders in academia. Finally, the women deans investigated in this study value‬ ‭relationships and leverage support networks while maintaining a continuum of life-long‬ ‭learning, self-care, and self-belief.‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭22‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭Campus Map‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭23‬

‭AWIL 2025‬

‭Special Thanks‬ ‭AWIL Task Force‬ ‭April Harris Akinloye, Pepperdine University‬

‭Ceili Norling, Westmont College‬

‭Celina Canales, Vanguard University of Southern‬

‭Jamie Sanfilippo, Huntington University Arizona‬

‭California‬

‭Jennifer Shewmaker, Lipscomb University‬

‭Alison Gambil, Westmont College‬

‭Gillian Steward-Wells, Judson University‬

‭Jill Hartness, CCCU‬

‭Sara Young Jackson, Pepperdine University‬

‭Karen Longman, Azusa Pacific University‬

‭Wanda Velez, CCCU‬

‭Irene Neller, Westmont College‬

‭Lipscomb Planning Committee‬ ‭Contessa Sanders, Chair‬

‭Naomi Lutz‬

‭Abby Bell‬

‭Karen Marklein‬

‭Rebecca Burcham‬

‭Autumn Marshall‬

‭Rebecca Clark‬

‭Kimberly McCall‬

‭Leslie Cowell‬

‭Laura Morrow‬

‭Sarah Gibson‬

‭Hope Nordstrom‬

‭Autumn Hillis‬

‭L. Carolina Santiago Sota‬

‭Debi Hoggatt‬

‭Emily Smith‬

‭Lois Jones‬

‭Jennifer Shewmaker‬

‭Carol Lusk‬

‭Jaclyn Spivey‬

‭Lipscomb Gospel Choir‬ ‭Directed by Dr. Aaron Howard‬

‭Lipscomb Student Musicians‬ ‭Other‬ ‭Kim Chaudoin, Vice President of Communications and Marketing, Lipscomb University‬ ‭Janel Shoun-smith, Senior Publications Manager, Lipscomb University‬ ‭Will Mason, Director of Brand Marketing, Lipscomb University‬

‭M.O.S.A.I.C.‬

‭24‬

‭AWIL 2025‬