2025 Annual Research Roundtables

AI &
MACHINE LEARNING

Christ-centered business and leadership AI practices

In line with the 2025 conference theme of flourishing through Christ-centered practices, the 2025 Regent Research Roundtable on Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) will consider if firms promote human flourishing amongst stakeholders by implementing AI in a way that conforms to a Christian worldview. Human flourishing in this context…more on AI & Machine Learning » is based on a goal of increasing life and peace in the earth (Isaiah 9:6-7, Romans 8:6, John 10:10). We encourage submissions that 1) Explore the theoretical integration of prior literature on Christian business practices and AI implementation, 2) Empirically test theory-grounded associations between Christian business practice, AI and stakeholder flourishing, and 3) Inductive studies testing new associations between AI investment and human flourishing. We also encourage creative and critical inclusion of APA-cited AI tools in all aspects of submissions, including literature review, research design and discussion. We look forward to discussing a robust set of new theoretical and empirical findings in this fast-moving area of research.

Submit your proposals to the Chair:

Dr. Andrew Root
aroot@regent.edu

BIBLICAL
STUDIES

Theme: TBD

The theme for the 2025 Regent University School of Business & Leadership Annual Research Roundtables is “Flourishing through Christ-Centered Business and Leadership Practices.” The Sacred Scriptures offer a wealth of business and leadership principles straight from the heart of God. The Biblical Studies Roundtable will be guided by two questions: (1) What…more on Biblical Studies » Christ-centered business principles can be derived from biblical texts, and (2) What Christ-centered leadership principles can be derived from biblical texts? We invite scholars of all Christian faith traditions to respectfully engage the field of knowledge and understanding of exegetical studies in leadership and business. We encourage innovative manuscripts addressing matters relating to business and leadership from a biblical worldview in various contexts. Further, we expect all presenters to consider the implications of Christ-centered business and leadership practices in human flourishing as they research their selected topics.

Submit your proposals to the Chair:

Dr. Joshua Henson
joshhen@regent.edu

BUSINESS
& SOCIETY

Integrating Christian Values into Economic Practices for Human Flourishing

This roundtable track examines the transformative potential of Christian theology, ethics, and leadership principles in reshaping economic systems, business practices, and policy frameworks to promote human flourishing. Rooted in biblical teachings, the discussion will confront contemporary economic…more on Business & Society » challenges through a faith-informed perspective. We welcome contributions in the form of empirical studies, theological reflections, working papers, policy analyses, and case studies that illustrate how faith-driven economic practices have positively impacted employee well-being, community resilience, and holistic prosperity.

Presenters will bridge theory and practice, offering actionable insights for leaders aiming to integrate Christian ethics into their economic decision-making, policy advocacy, and organizational cultures. This tract aligns with the roundtable theme by envisioning economics as a catalyst for spiritual and social renewal. It invites scholars and practitioners to delve into how businesses, nonprofits, and policymakers can develop structures that prioritize human dignity, justice, and sustainable flourishing for all. Together, we seek to foster a vibrant conversation about the role of faith in creating economic systems that uplift and empower communities.

Submit your proposals to the Chair:

Dr. Emilyn Cabanda
ecabanda@regent.edu

FOLLOWERSHIP

Using Followership to Create Organizational Flourishing

Welcome to the 2025 Regent University Followership Roundtable, where we gather under the theme of Flourishing Through Christ-Centered Business and Leadership Practices. We recognize and pursue leadership that aligns with Christian values, but we also recognize and pursue the indispensable role of followership.

The followership roundtable will explore…more on Followership » this dynamic relationship, emphasizing how followership is key to fostering flourishing. Through a series of insightful presentations, we will examine how effective followership empowers leaders, creates and sustains an organization’s culture, and challenges societal norms. Our discussions will, therefore illuminate how followers play a critical role in driving organizational success, supporting ethical decision-making, and contributing to the overall well-being of society.

As we engage with diverse perspectives from our speakers, we invite you to explore how followership shapes leadership at its core and how it can change an organization. Together, we will delve into the often-overlooked contributions of followers, affirming their role in creating environments where leaders can thrive, challenges are met with courage, and flourishing is achieved in alignment with Christian principles. We look forward to a roundtable of thought-provoking dialogue and shared insights as we explore the heart of followership in Christian leadership.

Submit your proposals to the Chair:

Dr. Robert Huizinga
robert.huizinga@reformationsvc.com

FORESIGHT

Personal Foresight: Advancing Self-Leadership and Human Flourishing Through Futures Thinking

Personal Foresight is the intentional practice of envisioning and preparing for multiple potential futures in one’s personal and professional life. Rooted in Strategic Foresight, it employs tools such as forecasting, scenario planning, and systems thinking to support wise decision-making and Christ-centered leadership apply Personal…more on Foresight » Foresight to align their lives with God-honoring visions of human flourishing. Speakers are invited to submit abstracts for video presentations or scholarly articles that examine the intersection of foresight, self-leadership, and flourishing. This roundtable aims to equip leaders to model foresight in their own lives, inspire others, and contribute to thriving organizations and communities. Featured live panels will showcase key insights and practical applications, equipping leaders to model intentional, future-focused thinking that strengthens individuals, organizations, and communities.

Submit your proposals to the Chair:

Dr. Virginia Richardson
virgric@regent.edu

HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

Human Resource Development to Further Human Flourishing through Christ-Centered Business and Leadership Practices

Human Resource Development focuses on employee and organizational development through adult learning theories and organizational learning practices. At Regent, we explore these topics through a distinctly Christian perspective. This year, we invite scholars and practitioners…more on Human Resource Development » to reflect on how HRD principles and practices can further human flourishing in Christ-Centered Business and Leadership practices. Presenters are invited to submit abstracts for video presentations and articles. A panel discussion will be used for each presenter to discuss their research.

Submit your proposals to the Chair:

Dr. Dave Winner
willwin@regent.edu

KINGDOM
BUSINESS

How to Build & Operate Kingdom Businesses that Produce Flourishing

A flourishing business is in harmony with God’s design. Customers’ lives are improved by their interactions with the business and by their use of the products and services. Employees fulfill God’s call on their lives through the excellence of their work and harmonious relationships with fellow employees, customers, suppliers, and the community.…more on Kingdom Business »

Submit your proposals to the Chair:

Dr. John Mulford
johnmul@regent.edu

ORGANIZATIONAL
LEADERSHIP

Flourishing through Christ-Centered Leadership Concepts and Practices

The 2025 Organizational Leadership Roundtable seeks conceptual, empirical, and case studies on organizational leadership concepts and practices contributing to our understanding of human flourishing. Topics related to human flourishing include but are not limited to (a) employee well-being, (b) organizational culture…more on Organizational Leadership » and climate that supports the end state of human flourishing, (c) positive organizational studies that explain how leaders and organizations impact employees’ happiness, (d) inclusion, (e) belonging, (f) organizational identity, (g) organizational commitment, (h) person-organization fit, (i) person-job fit, (j) job satisfaction, (k) employee development, (l) organizational justice, and (m) perceived organizational support. Presenters must make a clear connection of the topic to a biblical worldview.

Roundtable presenters will create a publishable APA-style article, a 15-minute video presentation for attendees’ reading and viewing, and a live 25-minute presentation, of which 15 minutes is for the presentation and 10 minutes for questions/answers.

Submit your proposals to the Chair:

Dr. Bruce E. Winston
brucwin@regent.edu

PROFESSIONAL
COACHING

The Relationship between Christian Business and Leadership Practices and Human Flourishing Coaching: purpose, principles, practice

At its essence, coaching is a profession honoring the individual. Coaches recognize and acknowledge the unique qualities of each client and work collaboratively with them to facilitate their personal growth and development. We invite…more on Professional Coaching » presenters to submit their work showcasing the distinct aspects of biblical approaches to coaching leading to presenters to submit their work showcasing the distinct aspects of biblical approaches to coaching leading to client flourishing. We challenge presenters to illustrate the effectiveness of models they have developed and applied. Practitioners are encouraged to present case studies and best practices pertaining to coaching ethics, partnerships, trends, teams, and AI & technology.

Submit your proposals to the Chair:

Dr. Diane M. Wiater
dianwia@regent.edu

SERVANT
LEADERSHIP

Human Flourishing by Serving and Leading Through Strength

Human flourishing by serving and leading through strength resonates deeply, encapsulating the essence of leading through service while drawing strength from our faith. Starting with the biblical foundation, the idea that we serve the Creator of all things is a powerful reminder of our purpose. In John 1:3, we see that all things were made…more on Servant Leadership » through Him, which emphasizes the importance of stewardship. As leaders, we have a responsibility to manage not just our resources but also the relationships and opportunities we have to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Being created in His likeness, as described in Genesis 1:26, implores us to reflect His character in our leadership. This likeness empowers us to lead with love, compassion, and humility. Stewardship, elaborated in Genesis 1:28-30, further underscores our duty to care for what the Creator entrusted to us. It invites us to approach leadership with a mindset of responsibility and gratitude, knowing that we are caretakers of God’s creation. Moreover, Mark 9:35 teaches us that true greatness comes from serving others. This aspect of servant leadership challenges conventional views of power and influence, suggesting that we find strength not in authority but in our willingness to serve. It inspires leaders to look beyond personal gain and bottom lines and instead focus on uplifting those around them.

Lastly, the call to walk with strength and courage, as highlighted in Deuteronomy 31:6 and 1 Chronicles 16:11, encourages us to embrace our leadership roles confidently. It is a reminder that while we may face challenges, our source of strength comes from our faith and trust in God’s omnipotence, as articulated in Isaiah 44:6.

Submit your proposals to the Chair:

Dr. Brian Moore
briamoo@regent.edu

TRANSFORMATIVE
INNOVATION

Shining Through Innovation: Christ-Centered Leadership for Flourishing

As Christians, we are called to foster human flourishing, guided by biblical principles that urge us to succeed while prioritizing love, service, and the well-being of others. This year’s Research Roundtable, themed “Flourishing through Christ-Centered Business and Leadership…more on Transformative Innovation » Practices,” explores how innovation in business and leadership can align with our faith to promote flourishing in our communities and beyond. Inspired by Matthew 5:16—”In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”—we will examine the personal and organizational skills that enable Christ-centered approaches to thrive in both private and public spheres, emphasizing practical ways to integrate faith into impactful leadership and enterprise. Speakers are invited to submit papers, conceptual talks, and oral book reviews that explore the dynamic intersection of Christian faith, business innovation, and leadership all at the intersection of innovation and the Christian faith.

Submit your proposals to the Chair:

Dr. Steve Firestone
sfirestone@regent.edu