Author

Melissa Spas

Vice president of religion, Chautauqua Institution

Melissa Spas is vice president of religion at Chautauqua Institution. Prior to that she served as the managing director of education and engagement for the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, part of the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IUPUI. She also worked previously at Indiana University’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs in Bloomington and at Leadership Education at Duke Divinity. She is a graduate of Allegheny College and Harvard Divinity School and is an active layperson in the United Methodist Church.

Tim Soerens

Applications now open for Reflective Leadership Grants

“This was a game-changer for us. The chance to climb up from the ‘dance floor’ of our everyday activity and discern a clarified organization future from the ‘balcony’ was the gift we needed even more than we understood at the time.

If possible, please pursue this extraordinary opportunity.”

— Tim Soerens, Parish Collective

Christian leaders from a variety of roles are welcome to apply. The grants provide “balcony time” to reflect on accomplishments, broaden perspectives and discern next steps. The application deadline is May 2, 2025.

Learn more