FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ELGIN, Ill. (April 9, 2025) – Judson University is pleased to announce that longtime Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) industry veteran Chris Hauser will serve as the keynote speaker for its Spring Commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 10, 2025. The ceremonies will be held at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in Herrick Chapel on Judson’s Elgin campus.
Hauser brings more than four decades of experience in the CCM world, having served in nearly every corner of the industry—from radio announcer and program director to concert promoter, label executive, artist manager, and now as a leading independent radio promoter. He has worked alongside many of the most well-known names in Christian music, including Amy Grant, Chris Tomlin, Newsboys, Lauren Daigle, For King & Country, NEEDTOBREATHE, and Elevation Worship.
Among his many notable collaborations, Hauser has had a longstanding professional relationship with Grammy Award-winning artist Lauren Daigle, serving as the radio promoter for her breakthrough debut album How Can It Be. His partnership with Daigle helped propel her early hits like “Trust in You” and “First” to national success, introducing her soulful voice and deeply personal lyrics to millions of listeners and solidifying her place as a leading voice in contemporary Christian music.
Beyond his impressive resume, Hauser is widely known for his deep faith, servant-hearted leadership, and unwavering commitment to mentoring the next generation of industry professionals. He has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of several independent radio promoters, offering guidance, encouragement, and meaningful opportunities to those navigating professional transitions.
“Jesus talks about sowing and reaping,” Hauser reflects. “You always reap way more and way later. I would say my life reflects good sowing and reaping—sowing good seed into other people’s lives and reaping joy and pride in knowing that I’ve had a good impact.”
Judson University is honored to welcome such an influential voice in Christian music and ministry to inspire its graduates as they prepare to step into their next chapter with faith and purpose. For more information about commencement, visit judsonu.edu/commencement.
About Judson University
Judson University, located in Elgin, Illinois, is a fully accredited, Christian liberal arts university offering more than 60 undergraduate majors, minors, and pre-professional programs, as well as graduate programs in architecture, business, clinical mental health counseling, education, and more. Founded in the Baptist tradition, Judson is home to a vibrant community of students committed to academic excellence, spiritual growth, and meaningful service. The university is also known for its award-winning architecture program, its strong athletics tradition, and the RISE Program for differently-abled students. Through a mission of “Shaping Lives That Shape the World,” Judson empowers students to become leaders in their fields and ambassadors of compassion in their communities. Learn more at www.judsonu.edu.