CCC 28-1

LEAD ARTICLES

The opening night celebration, “Let’s Get It Started,” launched the week with worship led by GRAMMY® award-winning artist, Chris Tomlin. AACC President, Dr. Tim Clinton, opened the event with a clarion call for Christian counselors, coaches, and ministry leaders to unite, summon courage, and answer the call to serve a hurting world with compassion and truth. Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The 5 Love Languages , shared his signature insight on building healthy relationships that reflect God’s love. Chad Robichaux and John Sanders then introduced the “Helping Our Heroes” FLOURISH Campaign, a new initiative to provide care and com munity for military service members, veterans, and first responders. The stage throughout the week featured some of the most respected and inspiring voices in ministry and mental health, including Jennie Allen, Lysa TerKeurst, Dr. John Townsend, Dr. Henry Cloud, Dr. Daniel Amen, Dr. Curt Thompson, Bob Goff, and others who encouraged attendees with messages of faith, hope, and perseverance. Each morning began with powerful sessions led by Tim Timberlake, Kelvin Cobaris, and Greg Surratt, setting a tone of spiritual renewal and encouragement for the day ahead.

The conference also included moments of great honor and gratitude. The AACC paid tribute to Dr. James C. Dobson, who entered his eternal home in August 2025 at age 89. His son, Ryan Dobson, accepted the recognition on behalf of his father as the crowd rose to their feet in heartfelt appreciation for a life that shaped generations. Ron Deal, M.MFT., was presented with the James C. Dobson Award for Excellence in Marriage and Family Research and Advocacy. In another deeply touching moment, the AACC honored Dr. Gregory L. Jantz, a longtime friend of the organization and a pioneer in whole-person care. His family received the AACC President’s Award post humously, recognizing his extraordinary life, legacy, and contribution to Christian counseling around the world. Award Recipients • Paris Finner-Williams Award for Excellence in the Advancement of Cultural Sensitivity and Competence – Fred Gingrich, D.Min. • James C. Dobson Award for Excellence in Marriage and Family Research and Advocacy – Ron Deal, M.MFT. • AACC Caregiver Awards for Excellence in Christian Caregiving – Shannae Anderson, Ph.D.; David King, D.S.W.; Jim Sells, Ph.D. • Gary Collins Award for Excellence in Research and Scholarship in Christian Counseling – Everett L. Worthington, Jr., Ph.D. • President’s Award for Outstanding Influence and Leadership in the Development and Advancement of Christian Counseling Around the World – Gregory L. Jantz, Ph.D. (Posthumously) • James E. Clinton Award for Excellence in Pastoral Care and Ministry – Greg Surratt • Frank Minirth Award for Excellence in Christian Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine – Timothy R. Jennings, M.D. • Mark Laaser Award for Excellence in Scholarship, Research, and Practice in the Study of Pornography, Sex Addiction, and Healing – Debbie Laaser, M.A. • David Stoop Award for Excellence in Scholarship in Family Therapy and Practice – Michelle Watson Canfield, Ph.D.; Ken Canfield, Ph.D. • Larry Crabb Award for Spiritual Formation, Soul Care, and Mental Health – Ron Hawkins, Ed.D., D.Min.

2 Christian Counseling Connection