This year’s CEO Summit was an inspiring gathering where ideas ignited, partnerships flourished, and friendships deepened. Our goal is always to create a program with unique, high-impact content, and this year was no exception. Over two and a half days, we didn’t just discuss today’s challenges—we explored the possibilities of tomorrow. And we did it together—united by our shared faith tradition of service.
When we come together, good things happen. We can move mountains. We can make a difference.
We launched the summit with Matt Ranen, whose 10-year scenario planning workshop helped us think beyond the present while staying grounded in today’s realities. Neuroscience shows that envisioning long-term futures sparks creativity and strengthens resilience—qualities that make us more effective leaders.
Rodney Whitlock and Mark McClellan provided key insights into the priorities of the new administration and Congress, fueling critical discussions throughout the summit. Together, we reflected on the impact of recent executive orders on families, our programs, and our communities. We were also joined by thought leaders and experts from across the country, including Patrick Briaud, Cheryl Fisher, Ron Hetrick, and Davis Baird, who led deep-dive breakout sessions on public-private housing partnerships, healthcare collaboration, the ‘forgotten middle,’ and workforce challenges.
On Wednesday, we turned our focus to artificial intelligence with Nabiha Syed, and Nathan Chappell—examining our responsibility and the partnerships necessary to lead responsibly in this space.
We also took time to celebrate leadership, honoring this year’s distinguished award recipients—Sam Sipes, Colleen Frankenfield, and Linda Timmons. Throughout the summit, we identified new strategies and collaborative efforts to strengthen our collective leadership. With guidance from our resident theologian, Mark Huber, our days were framed with moments of prayer and reflection, reinforcing our shared purpose.
Looking ahead, we anticipate challenges that will test our fortitude and stretch our creativity. But that is the beauty of this community—our strength lies in our unity. Together, we will transform these moments into opportunities to lead, innovate, and create lasting impact. And as we move forward, our united faith-based voice will not only be heard—it will lead the way.
It is greatly appreciated as we continue to work forward, guided by our shared faith tradition of service in, with and for community. We are reminded that as Lutherans, we are called to do God’s work in a complex world. And with all the current confusion and disruption, we remain steadfastly committed to our work with all partners across federal, state and local levels and efforts. As you know, it is in these times that also bring clarifying moments, and this reminds us of the essential nature of our work and the work of our members in meeting the needs of all individuals and communities across the country, while also supporting the firm resolve to push forward.
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Alesia Frerichs is the President & CEO of Lutheran Services in America.
