Regent University Relaunches Executive Leadership Series

September 3, 2025

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (September 3, 2025) — Regent University is bringing back Hampton Roads’ premier leadership forum, the Executive Leadership Series (ELS). The ELS luncheons, which drew thousands of business and community leaders for thirteen seasons, will return to the Founders Inn on November 18.

“The Executive Leadership Series exists to inspire business leaders and build community,” explained Regent University Chancellor Gordon Robertson. “Through these distinctive events, we seek to provide a gathering place where Hampton Roads’ most respected leaders gain world-class insights from leading experts, combined with exclusive networking opportunities.”

ELS is a vibrant platform for professional development and regional engagement. From 2005 to 2018, ELS served as the region’s distinguished leadership development and networking experience, hosting prominent speakers such as leadership expert Dr. Henry Cloud, Auntie Anne’s founder Anne Beiler, Shark Tankstar Daymond John, former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, and many others.

“We’ve been amazed by the outpouring of support and enthusiasm from the community,” said Claire Foster, Regent’s Executive Vice President of Advancement & Enrollment. “People still talk about the insights they gained, the connections they made, and the inspiration they found at ELS events. This isn’t just about bringing back a series—it’s about rebuilding a space where Hampton Roads leaders can come together to tackle today’s most pressing challenges and opportunities.”

2025-26 Season

The 2025-26 season will feature two signature events, designed to address current leadership challenges:

Leading with Excellence (November 18, 2025)

This dynamic panel discussion will explore what it means to lead—and succeed—with excellence in today’s business world. Distinguished executive leaders from across Hampton Roads will share insights, strategies, and insider tips, with the Honorable Robert G. MacDonald serving as panel moderator. Confirmed panelists include CEO of TowneBank, Bob Aston; CEO of Dollar Tree, Michael C. Creedon, Jr.; CEO of Hampton Roads Community Action Program, Dr. Edith White; and CEO of CBN & Chancellor of Regent University, Gordon Robertson.

Riding the AI Wave: Turning Disruption into Distinction (February 24, 2026)

AI is revolutionizing the business landscape. Hampton Roads leaders can become uniquely equipped to optimize their organizations and leverage the power of AI. Dr. Jason Baker, Associate Provost & Senior Technology Strategist at Regent University, will deliver an engaging, TED Talk–style presentation that will inform, inspire, and empower attendees to harness AI’s disruptive force for good and for competitive distinction.

“We intentionally chose topics that address the real challenges leaders face today,” Robertson emphasized. “Excellence in leadership never changes, but the context continues to evolve. Whether navigating leadership principles or understanding emerging technologies, these events will provide practical wisdom that leaders can apply immediately.”

Building Community Through Shared Learning

The ELS tagline—“Be Inspired. Get Connected.”—reflects both the quality of content and the networking opportunities each event provides. ELS aims to strengthen the Hampton Roads business community by providing a gathering place for leaders to connect, collaborate, and inspire one another.

“Leadership can be lonely, especially in today’s complex environment,” Foster noted. “ELS creates a space where leaders can learn from each other, share challenges, and build the relationships that make our entire region stronger.”

The events will blend thought-provoking content with high-level networking, offering timely conversations on relevant leadership challenges, meaningful engagement with business and civic leaders, and practical takeaways to sharpen skills and expand influence.

Registration and Sponsorship Information

Registration for the 2025-26 season is now open at www.regent.edu/els.

Sponsorship packages offer businesses the opportunity to connect their brand with influential leaders while supporting this valued community resource. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Kelly Fielder, Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations, at 757.352.4892 or kfielder@regent.edu.

For additional information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.regent.edu/els.

About Regent University

Founded in 1977, Regent University is America’s premier Christian university, with nearly 14,000 students studying on its 70-acre campus in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and online around the world. The university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in more than 150 areas of study, including business, communication and the arts, counseling, cybersecurity, divinity, education, government, law, leadership, nursing, healthcare, and psychology. Regent University has been ranked the #1 Best Accredited Online College in the United States (Study.com, 2020), the #1 Safest College Campus in Virginia (YourLocalSecurity, 2021), and the #1 Best Online Bachelor’s Program in Virginia for 13 years in a row (U.S. News & World Report, 2025).

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