2026 Executive Leadership Institute

June 4 - 8, 2026
The Cove | Asheville, NC

OVERVIEW

The Executive Leadership Institute is designed for senior leaders from CCCU institutions including provosts, vice presidents, deans, and other cabinet-level administrators who are already serving in significant leadership roles and are discerning or preparing for the next level of executive leadership, such as a college or university presidency, provost, or cabinet level leader.

From June 4–8, 2026, 20 participants will gather at The Cove in Asheville, North Carolina, for a highly focused, retreat-style experience that includes:
  • Keynote Sessions with experienced presidents and executive leaders addressing the realities of presidential leadership and the future of Christian higher education
  • Leadership Workshops exploring board relations, institutional strategy, financial stewardship, leading through complexity and change, and understanding the executive search process.
  • Peer Collaboration in a confidential, supportive environment to share experiences, refine leadership philosophy, and develop a network of trusted colleagues
  • Spiritual Formation through prayer, worship, and reflection to help leaders sustain their calling and lead with integrity and faith.
The ELI equips senior leaders to return to their campuses with sharpened vision, enhanced executive capacity, and practical strategies for stepping into the next chapter of leadership with confidence and purpose.

LOCATION

The Billy Graham Training Center at the Cove (The Cove) is a ministry of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA). The Cove is purposed to be a place of spiritual refreshment, where, as Billy and Ruth Graham said, people can leave behind the distractions of life and focus on God and His Word.

 

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicant Criteria

Preference will be given to applicants who: (1) hold a doctorate or are actively considering/pursuing doctoral studies; (2) are recognized as “up-and- comers” with demonstrated leadership skills and the potential for future senior-level leadership; (3) provide evidence of increasing levels of leadership responsibility within and/or beyond higher education.

Accepted applicants must agree to be actively engaged in the following program components:

  • Completion of their specific institute-related readings
  • Participation in the entire June Institute at The Cove
  • Development and fulfillment of a year-long Professional Development Plan
  • Interaction with a Resource Leader to identify a tailor-made shadowing site and mentor

Submission of a written shadowing report upon completion of the campus visit.

 

Application Step 1

Complete the Online Application. This application is broken down into four components:

  1. Applicant Information
  2. Essay Questions Submission Portal
  3. CV Submission Portal
  4. References Acknowledgment

You must complete all components of the application before submitting. We recommend that you prepare your essay questions and CV prior to starting.

Complete the Online Application Form

 

 

Application Step 2

Each applicant must have two references:

  1. One letter of reference from a senior-level administrator (current or previous) who is familiar with your professional abilities and leadership potential.
  2. One letter of reference from someone in higher education who knows you well and is qualified to address areas of competence and potential, character, areas of giftedness, and spiritual maturity.

Your referees should submit their reference letters directly to Wanda Velez at wvelez@cccu.org.

Please note, incomplete applications will not be considered.

If you have any questions regarding your application, please contact Wanda Velez at wvelez@cccu.org with the subject “2026 ELI <Applicant Name>”.

DEADLINE

The application deadline is February 28, 2026. However, we encourage participants to submit their materials before the deadline.

 

 

COST & FEES

Accommodations, materials, and all meals are included in the registration fee.

All-Inclusive Registration Fee – $1,750

This registration fee includes all-inclusive lodging (single room) and meals at The Cove, materials, and program costs.

Upon acceptance to the ELI, you will be required to immediately complete registration and pay the all-inclusive fee.

Cancellation Policy
You may cancel your full registration or any special event associated with your registration at any time prior to the start of the program. Please note that a cancellation will not result in a return of funds. If you register and fail to attend an event, no funds will be returned. If you have any questions about this policy, please contact us at (202) 546-8713.

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