Ethics and Leadership Conference Brings Prominent Speakers to Denver

Examining How Business Can Boost Economic and Social Growth in Free-Market Economies, “Changing the Paradigm for the Next Generation of Leaders”

April 7, 2009 — Colorado Christian University is less than one month out from this year’s Values-Aligned Leadership Summit (VALS). Entering its seventh season, the annual conference has become a popular highlight among members of the Denver business community who are interested in promoting ethical business frameworks, practices, and leadership. VALS 2009 will be held on Wednesday, April 22, at the Westin Tabor Center, 1672 Lawrence Street, Denver.

This year’s theme is “The Role of Business in a Free-Market Economy.” The day will feature interactive audience survey, networking opportunities, and roundtable discussion among executives and students. The impressive list of nationally recognized speakers includes:

• Lawrence W. Reed, President, Foundation for Economic Education – “Character, Liberty, and the Free Society”
• Robert L. Woodson, Founder and President, Center for Neighborhood Enterprise – “The Role of Free Enterprise in Addressing Poverty”
• Dan T. Cathy, President and Chief Operating Officer, Chick-fil-A, Inc. – “The Role of Businesses in the Community”
• Joseph A. “Bud” Ahearn, Retired Senior Executive, CH2M HILL, Ltd. – “The Role of Businesses in the Lives of Their Employees”
• William L. Armstrong, President, Colorado Christian University – “The Role of the University in a Free-Market Economy”

VALS 2009 will also include special presentations on economics and the role of free markets in the world economy by CCU faculty members Dr. William Mesa and Tamara Hannaway, as well as an appearance by John Andrews, a former Colorado Senate president and the current director of CCU’s new Centennial Institute (www.centennialccu.org).

Established by the CCU School of Business and Leadership, the VALS series was introduced to affirm values-based leadership in corporate environments in order to “change the paradigm for the next generation of leaders.” Each year, hundreds of executives and businesspeople gather for thought-provoking discussion with peers, and to share their wisdom and experience with students enrolled in CCU’s undergraduate business and MBA programs. Topics of discussion are frequently themed around the issues of stewardship, ethics, and values-based decision making and strategy.

For details about VALS 2009, or to register to attend and/or sponsor the event, visit the VALS Web site, call 303.963.3160, or send correspondence to ccuvals@ccu.edu.