When Caleb Foss joined Grand Canyon University’s Canyon Civic Institute on a trip to Washington, D.C., he never expected it would lead to a full-time position at one of the nation’s most prestigious cultural institutions – the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Soon after graduating summa cum laude in 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in government with an emphasis in public administration, Foss began serving as the executive assistant to Lisa Dale, the senior vice president and head of development at the center.
“It’s truly an honor,” Foss said, “Especially with the president of the United States being chairman of the center, it’s a great privilege to be involved and help make the Kennedy Center better than ever.”
His passion for government and leadership began long before college. He had been involved in political media since high school, which led him to seek a degree that merged his professional interests with his faith-driven desire to serve.
“My true passion for going into that originally stems from my faith, my passion to serve and to lead in different areas, especially within government,” Foss said. “My Christian foundation in life has been essential for pointing me in the direction where I believe I can make a difference.”
At GCU, Foss deepened his political experience by working for Kari Lake’s U.S. Senate campaign as a finance assistant and fundraising consultant throughout his undergraduate years. During his senior year, he joined the Canyon Civic Institute, a student organization that prepares students for their careers in civic engagement and public service.
It was through that student organization that Foss took a pivotal trip to Washington, D.C. where he interviewed for potential positions and broadened his professional network.
“Through CCI and my campaign work, I built connections that ultimately led to my current position,” he said.
Now at the Kennedy Center, Foss’ day-to-day role is dynamic and fast-paced. He supports senior leadership in operations, scheduling and fundraising, contributing to major successes in recent campaigns.
“In the past 30 days, we brought $58 million in secured funds for the Kennedy Center,” he said, “It’s a big operation, and it’s really exciting to be a part of it. With the leadership of Chairman President (Donald) Trump, Kennedy Center President and Ambassador Richard Grenell, Lisa Dale, the board of trustees and our entire leadership team, the Kennedy Center has accomplished so much in this past year, and we have many great things in store for the future.”
One of his most memorable experiences so far was the red-carpet premiere of "Les Misérables" in June.
“The president and the vice president were there along with many members of the Cabinet,” Foss said. “We brought in a lot of new donors for the Kennedy Center and raised over $10 million that one night. It was an incredible experience.”
Through every opportunity, Foss said he remains steadfast in his faith.
“Communication and connection are essential,” he said “But most importantly, stick to your morals, values and faith, especially. No matter what the goal is at that moment, stay true to what you believe in.”
Foss encourages GCU students to start making an impact in their own communities. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships and connecting with others, because you never know where those connections might lead.
“The best place you can get involved is in your local community first. Whether that’s in your church, your neighborhood, or something like the Canyon Civic Institute or other clubs or organizations at GCU. From there, the opportunities are endless.”
GCU News student writer Kaelyn Frenzel can be reached at [email protected].
***
Related content:
GCU News: Congressman's advice to students: 'Think disruptively'
GCU News/GCU Magazine: Five questions with Andrea Northup
