Second Annual Nexus Ministry Leadership Conference Draws Over 200 Leaders for Insights on Adaptive Leadership

The second annual Nexus Ministry Leadership Conference took place on Monday, February 10, 2025, drawing over 200 ministry leaders from across the state. Hosted in the Great Hall of the John G. Mahler Student Center, attendees were treated to an inspiring presentation by nationally recognized author and speaker, Dr. Tod Bolsinger.

A collaboration between the Gary Cook School of Leadership and DBU's Graduate School of Ministry, the event offers an opportunity for leaders to engage in meaningful discussions on the evolving challenges of ministry. This year's conference centered on adaptive leadership, with Dr. Bolsinger offering valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating leadership in unpredictable and difficult times.

Dr. Bolsinger emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong sense of identity as a leader, stating, "Change leaders need their identity grounded in something other than their need to be a success at bringing change." His words resonated with many, encouraging leaders to reflect on their core values as they face the complexities of modern ministry.

In addition to Dr. Bolsinger's keynote address, the conference featured several breakout sessions and a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Blake Killingsworth, Dean of the Gary Cook School of Leadership. During the panel, experts shared their perspectives on biblical leadership, the challenges of guiding organizations through periods of change, and the critical need for developing new leaders. Panelists included DBU President, Dr. Adam Wright, DBU Dean of the Carter School of Business, Dr. Cicely Jefferson, Pastor John Durham, and Linda Paulk.

Dr. Brent Thomason, DBU's Dean of the Graduate School of Ministry, who played a key role in hosting the event, reflected on the pressing challenges of leadership in today's rapidly changing world: "Everything is changing at breakneck speed—technological advances, shifting political landscapes, evolving moral and cultural trends, to name a few. The church finds herself in a brave new world, needing to adapt her methods without abandoning her biblical foundation. In the spirit of Lewis and Clark's expedition, Dr. Bolsinger challenged ministry leaders to examine the canoes we're holding onto that no longer serve us as we navigate the mountains ahead. We left the conference with a renewed sense of purpose, considering how our ministries must adapt while maintaining the trust and faith of our people during times of transformation."

The Nexus Ministry Leadership Conference continues to be a vital platform for equipping ministry leaders with the tools and insights they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world while leading like Jesus.