Rise Together: Discovering Strategies and Re-imagining Our Future

June 23, 2026

Rise Together: Discovering Strategies and Re-imagining Our Future

Margaret S. Vesnefski | 2025

Abstract

Hawaiʻi’s nonprofit and faith-based organizations face a pivotal moment as they navigate increasing complexity characterized by funding uncertainty, growing community needs, workforce fatigue, and deeply rooted organizational silos. The DSL project introduces Rise Together, an engaging, 8-hour participatory workshop designed to help leaders reinterpret and address these challenges through systems thinking and strategic foresight. Grounded in biblical stewardship, culturally rooted place-based methods, and the core values of ‘aloha’ and collective responsibility, the project encourages leaders to shift from reactive problem-solving to collaborative, future-focused action.

The workshop incorporates experiential learning techniques, utilizing practical tools like systems mapping, force field analysis, STEEPLE environmental scanning, futures wheels, constructive dissent, and community asset mapping. These help leaders identify interdependencies, uncover hidden leverage points, and envision alternative futures collaboratively. Through guided discussions and hands-on exercises, participants learn to interpret complex system dynamics, build cross-sector relationships, and develop resilient leadership practices rooted in shared purpose and trust.

Rise Together offers a replicable, contextually grounded leadership development model that advances Regent University’s mission of Christian leadership to change the world. By fostering foresight, collaboration, and moral imagination, this project contributes a practical pathway for nonprofit and ministry leaders to steward their organizations and communities faithfully and courageously amid uncertainty.

Request Information

"*" indicates required fields

Comments

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Online or On Campus*

Online

On Campus

On Campus Degree Type*

Online Degree Type*

Choose a Program*

This program is designed for registered nurses looking to advance their degree. A valid, unencumbered RN license is required to apply.

RN License Confirmation*

I currently hold a valid RN license

Don't have your RN license yet? Explore other Regent programs.

High School Graduation*

Are you an employee or the spouse/dependent of an employee?*

Employee

Spouse/Dependent

Are you a JCI USA member or benefitted employee, or the spouse/dependent of an employee?*

Employee/Member

Spouse/Dependent

Email Address*

Company*

Agency*

Employee's Company*

Employee's Agency*

Company Email Address*

Agency Email Address*

Your Email Address*

Employee's Company Email Address*

Employee's Agency Email Address*

Employee's First Name*

Employee/Member's First Name*

Employee's Last Name*

Employee/Member's Last Name*

Your Email Address*

First Name*

Last Name*

I live outside the US

Address*