Jeff Hunt Departs Colorado Christian University’s Centennial Institute

February 27, 2024

LAKEWOOD, Colo. — Colorado Christian University (CCU) announced the departure of Jeff Hunt from the university and his role as the executive director of the Centennial Institute, the university’s nonpartisan think tank.

“We thank Jeff Hunt for his steadfast leadership of the Centennial Institute and the Western Conservative Summit,” said Eric Hogue, CCU president. “Jeff was a tireless advocate for the advancement of faith, family, and freedom while leading the institute, and we support Jeff as he continues his transition into broadcasting. As a former radio host myself, it is obvious that Jeff has the unique skill set and personality to be successful on air.”

Hunt will be the daily morning host of The Jeff and Bill Show on KNUS 710 AM in Denver. The recently launched talk show airs Monday through Friday from 6-10 a.m. and can be heard both over the air and online.

Hunt joined the Centennial Institute in 2015, serving as executive director and the co-chairman of the Western Conservative Summit, one of the largest annual gatherings of conservatives in the Western United States. Additionally, he oversaw the institute’s lobbying efforts and edited its monthly digest, the Centennial Review.

“I had the pleasure of working closely with Jeff in recent years as co-chairmen of the Western Conservative Summit,” said Dr. Donald Sweeting, CCU Chancellor. “He had a passion for the university’s Strategic Priorities. His conservative convictions helped him navigate an often polarizing yet important period in American politics. Jeff is so talented. I’m excited for his next chapter in radio as well as the for the ongoing work of the Centennial Institute.”

A national search is underway for a new executive director. Dr. Tom Copeland, director of research at CI, will oversee operations during the interim. The Western Conservative Summit, originally scheduled for June 7-8, has been postponed. The event will return in 2025 under the leadership of CI’s next executive director.

“America faces a host of different challenges than it did when the Centennial Institute was founded in 2009,” said Hogue. “I’m excited for this new chapter as we continue to embrace the truths and values upon which this university stands, but also explore new and innovative ways to effectively change culture.”

The next executive director will be tasked with continuing and accelerating the Centennial Institute’s efforts to more fully integrate Colorado Christian University’s Strategic Priorities while engaging the university community. In January, the institute relaunched its faculty fellow program, which provides research, publications, and policy guidance from renowned CCU faculty members. CI also organizes state- and national-level pro-life advocacy efforts.

“The Centennial Institute has a unique opportunity to reimagine how it can effectively and efficiently impact culture during a rapidly evolving time,” said Wil Armstrong, chairman of the CCU Board of Trustees. “CI’s next leader will need to be innovative in their approach to leadership and communication, dedicated to conservative and free market ideals, and rooted in their faith.”