Honoring Faithful Leadership at the 2026 Mission Leaders Conference

Each year at the Mission Leaders Conference, the missions community recognizes individuals whose lives and work have had a significant impact on global mission. These awards are an opportunity to tell the story of God’s faithfulness through the lives of those who have served him well.

At the 2026 Mission Leaders Conference, we are honored to celebrate two remarkable leaders whose influence continues to shape the future of mission.

Lifetime of Service Award
2026 Recipient: Leighton Ford
Founder, Leighton Ford Ministries

After 30 years as Vice President of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and 16 years as Chairman of the Lausanne Committee on World Evangelization, Leighton has focused the last half of his ministry on identifying, encouraging, and mentoring the next generation of Christian leaders.  Through Leighton Ford Ministries, he has helped organize and sustain more than 30 ongoing mentoring communities supporting ministry leaders worldwide, facilitated many personal spiritual retreats for ministry leaders, and personally mentored or counseled a wide variety of pastors, ministry leaders, and lay leaders. One of the great gifts God has given Leighton are his talents as an artist. You can visit LeightonFord.art to learn more.

The Excelerate Award 2026 Recipient:
Don Barger Vice President of Innovation and AI, International Mission Board

Dr. Don Barger serves as Director of Innovation and Artificial Intelligence for the International Mission Board, where he brings a combination of innovation leadership, technical expertise, and a deep commitment to global missions. Widely respected for his ability to identify emerging technologies and apply them to meaningful real-world challenges, Don has been at the forefront of exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance communication, training, and outreach efforts around the world. His thoughtful approach, strategic insight, and dedication to serving others have made him a trusted leader and an influential voice in the intersection of technology, innovation, and Christian ministry.  He is the creator of faithbot.tools, a chatbot for evangelical Christians.

Join Us for the Award Ceremony

We invite you to join us at the 2026 Mission Leaders Conference as we honor these two leaders and celebrate the ways God is at work through their lives.

Be part of a gathering that encourages, equips, and connects mission leaders from around the world.