09/16/2026
On Monday, Sept. 14, Regent University launched the 2026-2027 season of its Executive Leadership Series (ELS) with a luncheon and discussion panel. The event, titled “Virginia Governors Discuss America at 250: Lessons of the Founders,” brought together four former governors of the Commonwealth for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, the U.S. Constitution, and the enduring principles of America’s founding as the nation continues to celebrate its 250th anniversary.
Prior to the panel discussion, Gordon Robertson, CEO of the Christian Broadcasting Network and Chancellor of Regent University, presented Regent University’s Executive Leader of the Year Award, recognizing outstanding leadership and service among the business and civic community in Hampton Roads. This year’s Executive Leader of the Year was Gold Key CEO Bruce Thompson, a prominent leader in the travel industry and vocal proponent of community service.
The luncheon’s centerpiece was a panel discussion exploring the leadership lessons of America’s founders, featuring four Virginia governors:
• Gov. Doug Wilder (1990-1994)
• Gov. George Allen (1994-1998)
• Gov. Bob McDonnell (2010-2014)
• Gov. Ralph Northam (2018-2022)
The Honorable Robert MacDonald, Judge on the Chesapeake Circuit Court, 1st Judicial Circuit of Virginia, returned to the ELS forum as Panel Moderator. Drawing on their respective tenures as governors, the four leaders reflected on the principles that guided the nation’s founders, expanding on how those principles continue to inform effective leadership today.
The next ELS luncheon, titled “Hampton Roads Rising: The Leaders Building Our Future,” is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 18, 2027, at noon at the Founders Inn and Spa. The event will bring together real estate and infrastructure leaders shaping
Hampton Roads. To reserve a seat or learn more, visit regent.edu/els.
See comments for link to the full article!