Van Lunen Fellows

The core values that form the basis of how we work are:

• Distinctively Christian
• Big Tent
• Excellent
• Diverse
• Collaborative
• Applied

Program Dates and Locations

Each year, a cohort of 20–24 Fellows begins the year-long executive management training program. Three of the weeks are spent in residence. 

The first and third sessions are focused on executive management curriculum and are held in July at the host school, Calvin University, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. 

The second session is in winter at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. Its purpose is to examine and strengthen “leadership from within” so Christian schools can lead their staff and community well. All sessions are led by faculty who are experienced heads of Christian schools with proven executive management skills. They represent the diversity of schools within the Christian school movement. 

The curriculum includes strategic planning, change management, advancement, fundraising and development, marketing and enrollment, board governance, and occasional specialized subjects. 

An applied project must be completed during the management training program that benefits each Fellow’s school. Drawn from new skills and information received in Van Lunen sessions and guided by faculty experts, the applied project culminates each Fellow’s Van Lunen Center experience. At the final July session, Fellows present their project that reflects its impact on their schools.

Program Pillars

The program pillars for the resident sessions include daily worship with liturgy from various Christian traditions, group instruction by faculty, and other experts who lead sessions on marketing and enrollment, development and fundraising, and facilities. The program is excellent in all program dimensions, emphasizing executive management rather than general leadership skills.

An applied project is required during the year-long management training program that benefits each Fellow’s school. Drawn from new skills and information received in their Van Lunen sessions and guided by the support of faculty experts, the applied project is the culmination of each Fellow’s Van Lunen Center experience. At the final July session, Fellows present their project and its impact on their schools. Fellow’s projects include new school construction, updated strategic plans, major fund-raising programs, enhanced marketing and enrollment strategies, and new approaches for working with a school’s governing board.

Applications will be accepted beginning November 1.