The importance of leadership can’t be overestimated. It is not too much of a reach to speak of the “spirituality” of leadership as it works its way into and through the changes, challenges and progress of our lives and organizations. Tapping into the wealth of experience shared by this lineup of leaders, and set against the background music of the Psalms, these sessions inspire, inform, and challenge anyone involved in or aspiring to positions of leadership.

Hosted by Larry James, this pathway took place in ACU’s Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building on Monday, September 16, 2019.

Sessions

CitySquare: An Introduction (Larry James)

This initial session reviews the story of CitySquare in Dallas, Texas. It relates lessons learned over 30 years of leading and building a high-impact organization dedicated to fighting the causes and effects of poverty. CitySquare serves as a case study behind each leadership principle addressed throughout the pathway.

Leadership Style at CitySquare (John Siburt)

Leadership styles define teams. Join John as he leverages his considerable learning and experience as the next generation leader into a discussion of how leadership works at CitySquare.

Don’t Dismiss the Difficult (Matthew Ruffner)

Matthew is a visionary leader of one of the most influential congregations in Dallas, Texas. Wise beyond his years, he is a leader who doesn’t shy away from difficult problems or challenges. His voice encourages leaders facing tough issues, as well as wonderful, but challenging opportunities.

Stick to Your Promise and Imagine Partners (Jarie Bradley)

As the chief people officer at CitySquare, Jarie works diligently to maintain and protect the culture of a growing urban organization. This session raises important value considerations and outlines the imperative of being true to mission while working with other leaders and organizations to get the work done.

Breakthroughs Follow Darkness and Act Beyond Your Reach (Gerald Britt)

Gerald brings a seasoned perspective flowing from his illustrious career in the center of urban Dallas. A consummate preacher, community organizer and moral voice for the city, he will inspire leaders to choose faith over doubt and to trust beyond the limits of any human capability.

Speakers

JARIE BRADLEY

A proud Dallasite, Jarie Bradley began fighting poverty with CitySquare in 2009. Jarie is an advocate for racial equity who believes that HR leaders play a critical role in the fight for social justice. Jarie was also recognized as a 2010 Exxon Mobil Community Champion for her service to the community and the non-profit sector. Jarie is an adjunct professor at El Centro College’s Conflict Management Center, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and an active mentor for young girls and women.

GERALD BRITT

Gerald Britt joined CitySquare in September 2004 to further his lifelong work of serving those around him. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Metro Dallas Housing Alliance, Strong Schools Strong Dallas Co-Chair, Anti-Poverty Coalition Steering Committee, Texas Fair Lending Alliance, and Texas Healthy Initiative Public Policy Committee. He has been on the forefront of many social issues, including advocating for Parkland Hospital patients to receive better care to increasing voter turnout in South Dallas.

LARRY JAMES

From August 1994 until the present, Larry James has provided executive leadership for CitySquare, most recently as CEO. James has been involved in developing and implementing holistic, justice-focused approaches to congregational and community service and outreach throughout his career. James, a Texas native, is married to the former Brenda Erwin, and they have two grown daughters and four grandchildren.

MATTHEW RUFFNER

Matthew Ruffner became senior pastor at Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church in April of 2015. Matthew currently serves on the Austin Seminary Board and was the recipient of the Zick Preaching Award, which recognizes outstanding young preachers in the U.S. in 2015 and 2016. He also serves on the Day 1 Advisory Board and recently served on the Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Board of Trustees.

JOHN SIBURT

John Siburt serves as the president and chief operating officer and oversees ACU@CitySquare, a partnership between CitySquare and Abilene Christian University. He joined CitySquare in August 2012 as the assistant vice president of programs. He has served on the board of Christian Works for Children, the advisory board for New Friends/New Life, and on the leadership team of the Dallas Justice Revival.