Executive Director's Statement

Leading in Chaotic and Challenging Times

There is no question that these are chaotic and challenging times for leaders. The title of a recent book puts the matter well when it suggests, "first, break all of the rules." This does not imply that the realities of this unsettling world mean there is no longer a place for moral and ethical leadership. Quite the contrary. Transparency, integrity, candor, credibility and authenticity are fundamentals for effective contemporary leadership.

What is really at stake is the need for society to identify and invest in leaders who possess the courage, imagination and adaptive skills, not only to think "outside the box," but who are risk-takers and are prepared to go on the offense even in a time of crisis. Such leaders are not afraid to face cold hard facts because they operate out of a strong set of core values, or as Bill George states, always follow their "true north."

Such boldness and centeredness are leadership musts within this often confusing world of instant communication, I-Phones, text messaging, global meltdowns, clashing cultures and competing faiths. Such leadership qualities are especially required of clergy and lay church leaders. For an increasingly secular society tends to see a complete disconnect between religion and reality. While remaining God-centered, church leaders must confront the undeniable realities that old paradigms for doing ministry no longer address the spiritual needs of a new age.

The vision and mission of the Academy of Leadership Excellence in to invest in the development of effective church leaders who will be equipped in the practical leadership skills required for responding to the spiritual needs of this new age. Through the National Leader Series; the Leadership Fellows program, which invests in the intensive development of leaders; the provision of leadership coaches and consultant services; a superb faculty and team of resource leaders, who respond to specific leadership training needs, the focus of the Academy is on nurturing practical as opposed to theological and theoretical leadership skill sets.

The Academy is not an organization or institution but a spiritual movement motivated by the call of God to reach people for Christ. Its vision is to invest in the development of passionate, spiritual servant leaders who courageously and boldly welcome the leadership challenges of this new age. "I curse you; may you live in an important age," says an old Chinese imprecation. Ours is an important age! Could there be a higher honor and privilege than to be called to be a Christian servant leader in such an age?

Brian Gentle
Executive Director