Ron Haas is a distinguished figure in the realm of higher education, particularly known for his contributions to Baptist institutions. With years of experience as an educator, administrator, and thought leader, Ron has been at the forefront of promoting Christian values and academic excellence. His career is marked by a commitment to fostering an environment where faith and learning intersect, enabling students to grow both intellectually and spiritually.

In addition to his administrative and educational roles, Ron has been highly successful in fundraising efforts. He has led numerous campaigns that have significantly increased financial support for various educational programs and infrastructure projects.

Ron's leadership has been instrumental in developing programs that address contemporary challenges in higher education, ensuring that institutions remain relevant and impactful in an ever-evolving academic landscape.

Ron Haas is also a prolific author, having written several influential books that explore the intersection of faith and education. His works include "Faith and Scholarship: Integrating Christian Values in Higher Education", "Building Bridges: Christian Leadership in Academic Institutions", and "Fundraising with Faith: Strategies for Success in Christian Higher Education".

Presentation Topic for 1st Plenary Session:

The Biblical Basis of Asking

“Every successful fundraising effort requires asking. Asking is not a secular strategy but a biblical mandate. Our first “ask” must be to ask God for his blessing. Nothing of significance can be accomplished for eternity without prayer but it doesn’t stop there. We must share our vision and ask our friends to partner with us.”

Jacob Shatzer is a theologian, author, and fourth-generation Chicago Cubs fan. An alumnus of Union, Dr. Shatzer earned the BA in Biblical Studies-Languages and went on to Southern Seminary for his MDiv. After graduating from Marquette University with a PhD in religious studies with an emphasis on theological ethics he taught at Sterling College and Palm Beach Atlantic University. Dr. Shatzer has served at Union since 2017, first as Associate Dean of Theology & Missions then as Associate Provost and Dean of Instruction. He teaches Bible, theology, and ethics and has written on topics ranging from theological hermeneutics to transhumanism to the integration of faith and learning. His books include A Spreading and Abiding Hope,  Transhumanism and the Image of God, Faithful Learning, and Biblical Ethics.

Presentation topic at the 2nd Plenary Session:

You may have thought about how your students might or might not use AI. But what about your faculty and staff? Are there lines? If so, where and why?

“Technological progress is inevitable, and we just need to get with the times.” At least that is what those who peddle the products want us to think. But are there better frameworks for considering how AI may or may not help advance the mission of Baptist colleges and universities?

Gregory S. Baylor serves as senior counsel with Alliance Defending Freedom, where he is the director of the Center for Religious Schools and senior counsel with the Center for Public Policy.

Since joining ADF in 2009, Baylor has focused on defending and advancing the religious freedom of faith-based educational institutions through advice, education, legislative and public advocacy, and representation in disputes. He has testified about religious liberty issues three times before congressional committees.

Greg regularly comments on religious liberty and higher education issues in television, radio, and print media, including The New York Times, Christianity Today, National Public Radio, and network and cable news programs. Additionally, he serves on the board of directors of the International Alliance for Christian Education, the board of advisors of the Museum of the Bible, and advisory board of the Center for Academic Faithfulness and Flourishing.

Greg earned his Juris Doctor in 1990 from Duke University School of Law, where he graduated Order of the Coif, with high honors, and served on the editorial board of the Duke Law Journal. He received his bachelor’s degree in Honors English in 1987 from Dartmouth College. Following graduation from law school, he served as law clerk to the Hon. Jerry E. Smith on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. He practiced labor and employment law at two large international law firms for three years before joining the staff of Christian Legal Society’s Center for Law and Religious Freedom, where he served for 15 years prior to joining ADF. He lives in Northern Virginia with his wife (a medical doctor) and two daughters.

The National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities

Representing Private, Nonprofit Higher Education Since 1976

NAICU is the only national organization solely focused on representing private, nonprofit higher education on public policy issues in Washington, D.C.

As one of the six major presidential higher education associations, NAICU's institutional membership is comprised of presidents from accredited private, nonprofit colleges and universities.

NAICU's relationships, expertise, and credibility allow it to be an effective messenger for the diverse voices of its membership.

NAICU has represented this subset of American higher education on policy issues with the federal government.  NAICU's policy mission is focused on issues affecting student aid, tax policy, and government regulation.

To help meet these goals, NAICU staff meets with policymakers; tracks campus trends; conducts research; analyzes higher education issues; publishes information; helps coordinate state-level activities; and advises members on legislative and regulatory developments with potential impact on their institutions.

Everyday, NAICU ensures the voice of private, nonprofit higher education is heard in the policy debates and conversations taking place in Washington, D.C. and around the country.