Dr. Stacy Jensen
Tuesday, Jan 24
3:15 – 4:30 pm
Communicating a Christ-Centered Future in Ways that Move God’s People to Action
In Lutheran circles, the word vision can sometimes make people uneasy. Too often it’s misunderstood as trying to predict the future, as if leaders were claiming special insight into what God has hidden. But that’s not what vision is. For the Lutheran, who understands only God knows what will happen tomorrow, vision is simply about painting a picture of an aspirational future that gives glory to Christ. It’s about asking: If Christ gives us the opportunity and the gifts, what could we prayerfully strive to do for him?
This breakout will help leaders understand what vision truly is and why it matters for ministry. Participants will learn how to shape vision in ways that are firmly grounded in God’s Word, inspired by Christ’s mission, and realistic to their setting. Just as importantly, leaders will explore how to communicate vision so that it captures hearts, rallies teamwork, and motivates God’s people to action. When vision is clearly framed and joyfully shared, congregations and schools are energized to work together toward Christ-honoring goals.
Dr. Stacy Jensen serves as professor in the Communication department at Wisconsin Lutheran College. She teaches courses in leadership, public speaking, persuasion, interpersonal communication, creativity, conflict management, and nonverbal communication. Her research, writing, and public speaking activities revolve around creative leadership communication, particularly as it relates to motivation, empowerment, and student engagement. She also frequently speaks on personal identity, resilience, and the grieving process. Her book, Purposeful Grieving: Embracing God’s Plan in the Midst of Loss, pulls these concepts together, guiding the reader toward personal growth and healing.
Dr. Jensen earned undergraduate degrees in communication and theology from Wisconsin Lutheran College. She holds a master’s degree in communication arts from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a PhD in organizational leadership from Regent University in Virginia Beach, Va. She, her husband, and her three children belong to Trinity in Waukesha, Wis.
