Overview
This rigorous and selective one-year fellowship program assists heads of Christian schools in refining the executive skills necessary for school management in the current competitive climate. Through case studies, reading, writing, interactive exercises, small group discussions, a school based project, and coaching, participants will deepen their own leadership, develop skills essential to the tasks of headship, and create deep relationships with peers and leaders.

Format
In a dynamic setting with experts and peers, the Van Lunen Fellows Program strikes a balance between time away from school and school-based application of management principles. The year-long program begins with five residential days in July 2008, continues again in January for three days, and ends with three days in July 2009. Between sessions, coaching and support are available via phone and online tools. A program brief (PDF) is available for download.

Location and Dates
Three residential sessions occur in environments conducive to developing relationships, facing challenges, and thinking differently. From the beautiful stone fireplaces of the Prince Conference Center to the tranquil grounds of the Canterbury Conference Center, Fellows and faculty will find space for important conversations, options for recreation, and the ability to stay connected through state-of-the-art technology.
July 13–18, 2009: Prince Conference Center, Grand Rapids, Michigan
January 12–16, 2010: Canterbury Retreat and Conference Center, Orlando, Florida
July 11–17, 2010: Prince Conference Center, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Participants
The Fellows program is designed for Christian school heads from the United States or Canada with 2-10 years of experience in their position. Twenty-four heads will be selected as Van Lunen Fellows. International applicants will also be considered.

Tuition and Fees
The Fellows program is funded by the Van Lunen Foundation. For the Fellows class of 2009, the estimated value of the program is $7,500. The participant program fee is $1,500. Funding by the Foundation combined with the participant program fee will cover all participant expenses, including cost of instruction, travel, lodging, meals, coaching, and access to topic experts.
Financial aid related to the participant fee is available. An application for financial aid (PDF, fillable form) is available for download.

Application Deadline
The application period for the 2009 Fellowships begins in November 2008 and will end on February 15, 2009.