Dr. Ben Carson Delivers Keynote Address at 2025 Colorado Christian University President’s Weekend in Beaver Creek

Posted on September 09, 2025

Dr. Ben Carson Delivers Keynote Address at 2025 Colorado Christian University President's Weekend in Beaver Creek

Carson and DeVos Call CCU to Stand Firm in Truth and Leadership

Colorado Christian University (CCU) welcomed world-renowned neurosurgeon, author, and former cabinet member Dr. Ben Carson as the keynote speaker at its 2025 President's Weekend, held in Beaver Creek, Colorado.

Carson urged the CCU community to stand firm in biblical truth while pursuing excellence in every field. Sharing his journey from poverty in Detroit to becoming a pioneering neurosurgeon, he credited his mother's Christian faith and insistence on reading as pivotal influences.

"We're living in a time where people are trying to push God into the background," Dr. Carson said. "But we must be at the forefront of resistance for that. God has not given us a spirit of fear, and trust in God makes all the difference."

His address highlighted several themes central to CCU's mission: faith and freedom, the American dream, and the role of education in shaping character. Carson reminded attendees that lasting influence begins with personal responsibility: "The person who has the most influence on what happens to you - is you," Carson noted.

As part of the evening program, Mrs. Candy Carson participated in a panel discussion on education and leadership. She highlighted the critical role of early childhood reading, reflected on the hunger she sees among students for truth, and noted the growing influence of faith-led movements on college campuses across the country.

Attendees also heard from former U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, who delivered a video message of encouragement: "Stand firm in everything you're doing and be encouraged," DeVos said. "You are helping to prepare the next generation to take their place in standing firm. You are training disciples to further God's kingdom here on earth, and you have a unique role in doing so at CCU."

CCU President Eric Hogue noted that the Carsons and DeVos exemplify the values CCU instills in its students. "Dr. and Mrs. Carson, along with Secretary DeVos, embody the very values CCU seeks to instill in its graduates," Hogue said. "Their unwavering faith, commitment to excellence, and courage in leadership are an inspiration to our community."

President's Weekend is CCU's premier gathering of trustees, donors, alumni, and friends, designed to strengthen partnerships around the University's mission of advancing Christ-centered higher education.