CCU Leadership Award
LAKEWOOD, Colo. – Colorado Christian University (CCU) is excited to announce the Colorado Christian University Leadership Award, a prestigious new honor that will be awarded annually to a junior or senior in the College of Undergraduate Studies who exemplifies outstanding Christian leadership, character, and service.
The first recipient will be recognized at CCU’s May 2025 Commencement Ceremony at Blue Arena, where James "JB" Brown, esteemed broadcaster and devoted Christian leader, will deliver the keynote address. The recipient will receive a remarkable $25,000 cash award, a transformational gesture that underscores CCU’s commitment to provide Christ-centered higher education, equipping students to impact the world with grace and truth.
The Leadership Award, made possible through a $1 million endowment seeded by Hal Krause and ten additional donors, will be granted each year in perpetuity. No other Christian university within the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU) offers a leadership award of this magnitude, making this a historic moment in Christian higher education.
Conceived by entrepreneur and longtime CCU trustee Hal Krause, the award is designed to be CCU’s equivalent of the Heisman Trophy or MVP award, signifying the highest level of distinction for Christian leadership on campus.
A Legacy of Leadership
Each recipient will have their name engraved on a four-sided, 4-foot granite pedestal permanently displayed on CCU’s campus, establishing a lasting legacy of faith-driven leadership. The winner will also receive an 8-inch replica of the award as a personal keepsake.
"True leadership is not about seeking recognition, but about influencing lives for Christ," shared Hal Krause. "This award will serve as a reminder that Christian leadership is a lifelong calling, and I pray it encourages generations of CCU students to lead with boldness and integrity."
CCU President, Eric Hogue, expressed his full support for the initiative, stating, "The Colorado Christian University Leadership Award is a groundbreaking step in recognizing the next generation of Christian leaders. This award highlights our university’s deep commitment to developing students of character who will impact the world for Christ. I am grateful for Hal Krause’s vision and the generosity of our donors in making this possible."
The selection process includes nominations from each of CCU’s schools and the Athletic Department, followed by a review by the final selection committee.
Funding & Long-Term Commitment
The Leadership Award is backed by a $1 million endowment, ensuring the $25,000 cash prize will be awarded every year. First Bank generously gave $25,000 to underwrite the first year of the CCU Leadership Award, guaranteeing that the inaugural recipient will be honored this May at the CCU 2025 College of Undergraduate Studies Commencement at Blue Arena.
In addition, CCU is designing a foundational leadership course for all new students, reinforcing its mission to prepare world changers for Christ.