“I count my time at EXCEL as one of the greatest experiences of my life. God used the ‘spiritual greenhouse’ atmosphere of EXCEL to draw me closer to Christ and motivate me to commit every part of myself to Him. The many lessons I learned have proved to be deep and lasting.”

—Janeé Critchfield

“I entered EXCEL with a mind full of questions: What does my future hold? What is my purpose in life? The Lord used this dynamic program to answer my questions and give me a vision higher than a career or marriage.”

—Gina Novotny

“I came to EXCEL with the goal of knowing God in a deeper, more intimate way. I had vague ideas on how to ‘mature,’ but had never spent eight weeks of time in concentrated study on just that topic. Through all of my studying and searching, the Lord faithfully shaped me until I followed not just from obedience, but from a pleasure in walking in His way. The atmosphere and teaching helped mold me, but I owe the greatest thanks to the EXCEL leadership that dedicated itself to the spiritual nourishment of the girls under their care. I came with apprehensions, expecting people to tell me I had to fit a certain ‘cookie-cutter’ ideal. Instead we celebrated unique perspectives and personalities, and I learned to see my differences as evidence of God’s wondrous love of variety in us, His creations.”

—Regina J. Burgess

“EXCEL was such a blessing to me, and a real time of growth for my relationship with my parents. That was probably the most significant change in my life. I was able to really share some things that God laid on my heart and to clear my conscience. My mom and I had never been really close, but during my time away our relationship grew deeper and closer. I’m so grateful for the speakers and teachers who encouraged us to seek our parents’ direction and to stay under their authority no matter how old we are. My EXCEL experience was truly a wonderful one, and I thank our Lord and Savior for the opportunity.”

—Jessie Barreto