IMPACT SUMMER 2022
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F R E G E N T U N I V E RS I TY
A DAY OF REDEMPTION Virginia’s Top-Elected Officials Participate in 42nd Commencement Weekend as Graduation Celebrations Return to Campus
Regent University’s 2022 Commencement Weekend was a celebration unlike any other. The Virginia Beach campus came alive on a beautiful spring day to host the first in-person commencement since 2019.
were invited to participate in the celebration, offering these deserving graduates the traditional on-campus commencement experience they missed.
Dr. M.G. “Pat” Robertson, Regent’s founder, chancellor, and CEO was excited to once again welcome graduates, alumni, families, friends, faculty, staff, and distinguished guests to the Library Plaza on Saturday, May 7. The result was a crowd of more than 10,000 in attendance for this sacred event.
INSIDE: Inspired to Lead Alumnus of the Year Honoring Dede Robertson Going Above & Beyond Regent World Changer Chancellor’s Message
The crowd had extra reasons to celebrate. Regent’s Class of 2020 and Class of 2021
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“It was a thrill. We were concerned about the weather, but it was absolutely perfect. Everything was perfect,” Robertson told Impact. “Being back on campus is so special for the students. The virtual ceremonies were fine, but they can’t compare with being here in person.”
Following the ceremony, she was presented with RSG’s Distinguished Statesman Award. The award honors individuals who have sacrificially enhanced our country through their extraordinary contribution to public service.
The on-campus services format for commissioning and commencement was the first for RSG Dean Michele Bachmann. Regent’s 42nd Commencement Weekend The former congresswoman joined officially kicked off two days earlier with Regent University commissioning mid-pandemic in services, where January 2021. She faculty and spoke with Impact administrators prayed about last year’s over the graduates, virtual format and recognized their how it compared to accomplishments, and this year’s in-person handed out diplomas. celebration weekend. “The difference Virginia Attorney was experiencing General Jason the power and the Miyares served as the presence of the Holy keynote speaker for Spirit during the the School of Law ceremony. There was Commissioning. He no question that the is the first Cuban Lord showed up,” American elected to Bachmann said. “In the state’s General that gathering, it Assembly, the first was truly a sacred Hispanic elected moment because statewide in Virginia, “Don’t be confused by what graduation is a and the first son of an constitutes a rich life. It is all about significant milestone immigrant to serve as finding significance and living in a student’s life, Attorney General. according to your purpose.” when they come to Miyares, whose that culmination GLENN YOUNGKIN mother immigrated point of reaching the VIRGINIA GOVERNOR to the States in 1965, goal that they worked shared his unique so hard to achieve.” perspective on “Where Does Your Compass Point?” America. “Why did my mother flee Cuba and come here?” he asked. “It’s because With the sun shining for the first time she was desperate to live in a society that in days, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin recognized that her rights come from God stepped to the podium to deliver his and not some government official. We have address as Regent’s 2022 Commencement to recognize that we are a unique nation.” speaker. The Commonwealth’s 74th governor grew up in Richmond and Virginia In closing, Miyares told the Regent Law Beach. He attended Rice University on graduates, “We are indeed, as Abraham a basketball scholarship and earned a Lincoln noted, the last best hope on earth. degree in engineering. Youngkin received Thank you, Class of 2022, for being part of his MBA at Harvard Business School that last best hope.” and worked for 25 years at The Carlyle Group, rising to the CEO position. At the School of Business & Leadership Commissioned to Change the World
(SBL) Commissioning, distinguished alumna and Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears delivered the keynote address. She was also inducted into SBL’s Alumni Hall of Distinction. Additionally, Earle-Sears attended the Robertson School of Government (RSG) Commissioning to give the invocation. 2
The Governor began his speech by offering his “deepest sympathy and condolences” on the recent passing of a beloved member of the Regent University family, Mrs. Adelia “Dede” Robertson. “We celebrate as well because we know she’s with the Lord,” Youngkin added, as he looked at Dr. Robertson. “I also offer
my profound appreciation for the example the two of you set for all these many years. Thank you for your tireless service to this community, to scholarship, and the Kingdom of Christ.” He continued, “I want to talk about the world that awaits you, a world that needs you because you are graduating from Regent University, and you will change the world. … There are always seasons of tribulation that go with seasons of triumph. Just remember, there are no diamonds made without pressure. ... What’s most important in those moments is that we remember two very important tools. First, mentors who can guide us and advise us, and second, a compass. A compass that points us in the direction of sacred truth. A compass that points us in the direction of core values that define us.” “Where does your compass point?” the Governor asked. “Don’t be confused by what constitutes a rich life. It is all about finding significance and living according to your purpose. ... Happiness is fleeting and finding purpose is what is truly satisfying. Seek your purpose, and you will find happiness. Seek happiness, and you will find neither. Where does your compass point?” The Power of Redemption After the commencement address, Dr. William L. Hathaway, Regent University’s executive vice president for Academic Affairs, introduced R. Michael Thornton to give the Graduate Reflections. The Doctor of Strategic Leadership graduate from SBL delivered a powerful, charismatic speech that brought the crowd to their feet and in tears. Thornton shared how the Lord broke through his personal darkness to redeem and restore him—a once homeless, suicidal, former drug addict who now serves God as a pastor and college director. His passion and enthusiasm for Christ were infectious as he told an energized commencement crowd: “Today is a day of redemption. I have learned that redemption is God’s version of revenge. It’s when God makes the enemy pay you back for everything that was lost and stolen from you in previous seasons of your life. … To my fellow graduates. I want you to know that when we turn those tassels, we are turning the page on a new season—a new chapter in a new beginning. Today is a day of redemption.”
SBL Dean Dr. Doris Gomez presenting the 2022 Alumnus of the Year Award to Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears
It’s All About Obedience After the Graduate Reflections, Dr. Doris Gomez, dean of the School of Business & Leadership, presented the 2022 Alumnus of the Year Award to Winsome Earle-Sears (SBL ’03), the first female Lieutenant Governor for the Commonwealth of Virginia and the first black female elected to statewide office. (See page 12 to learn more about the Alumnus of the Year Award winner.) Earle-Sears began her remarks by turning to the university’s founder, chancellor and CEO to ask him, “Dr. Robertson, do you see what you did because you obeyed? Could you have imagined all of this?” Virginia’s Lieutenant Governor reminisced about her time on campus in the early 2000s and encouraged graduates to follow God, no matter what: “This is what happens when you obey. Had he not obeyed, [Regent University] would not be here. That’s all the Lord wants to know: ‘Did you obey me? … That’s all that matters.” For Such a Time as This Robertson, who turned 92 in March, returned to the microphone to express how thankful he is, along with the board of trustees, for the graduate’s willingness to trust Regent with their academic careers: “Whether it’s two years, three years, four years that you’ve been here and allowed us the privilege of training you and helping you, all of us are deeply grateful to the Lord for the privilege that you have extended to us to help you in your journey.” The chancellor then shared the Old Testament story of Queen Esther, who saved the Jews from annihilation. An adopted 3
cousin, Mordecai, begged her to intervene and ask the king to spare their people: “For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14). Robertson drew parallels from that ancient story to today’s graduates. “We live in a perilous world,” he warned. “The world is crying for an answer, and you have the answer. The answer is the power of God and the truth of the Holy Bible. That is what will be necessary to solve the world’s problems.”
he said: “To the Class of 2022, the Class of 2021, and the Class of 2020, I want you to know we are proud of you. We praise God for you. You are and always will be our Regent family. Now, as Christian leaders, I charge you: Go, change the world! You may now flip your tassels!” With those words, air cannons showered the crowd of thousands with a spectacular display of blue, green and silver confetti. When the fanfare settled, Dr. Joseph Umidi, executive vice president for Student Life, offered the benediction. He blessed Regent’s new alumni with Scripture from Isaiah 60:1 and Jude 1:24-25:
“‘Arise, shine, for your light has come, and Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. In closing, Now to Him who is able to keep you from Robertson delivered his charge to the Class of 2022. “You’ve come into the kingdom for stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding such a time as this,” he insisted. “I assure joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, you that, in today’s world, there is a crisis of be glory and majesty, dominion and power, massive proportions. You will go forth into both now and forever. Amen.’” this world, and you are going to change it. … You are going to be salt and light in a A Celebration Reclaimed world that’s desperately seeking answers.” With his challenge issued, Robertson called on the deans of each school to present their candidates for graduation. After conferring more than 2,500 degrees, 4
The return to campus was especially significant to 2020 and 2021 graduates who missed out on a traditional Regent commencement due to pandemic restrictions.
Nearly 400 alumni from those two classes participated in this year’s ceremony. One returning student from 2021 was Kristen Hilferty, who received her Master of Education in Christian School Leadership. She told Impact, “I decided to walk a year after graduating because I wanted a sense of closure, to commemorate that I had spent two years investing in a master’s degree to prepare for what God has for my future. It was wonderful to be in the midst of graduates, professors, families, leaders … the church, those who are passionate about bringing God’s Kingdom into their area of influence.” Commencement 2022 gave a Regent Legacy Family the opportunity to celebrate two generations of God’s faithfulness. Dr. Deborah Reynolds Harper is a two-time graduate of the university (SCA ’92 & SBL ’17). Her daughter Gillian is a 2020 College of Arts & Sciences (CAS) graduate who returned to campus to participate in commissioning and commencement. Dr. Harper said her Regent education has empowered her to fulfill the divine calling that God has placed on her life: “It is a great joy to have our children also receive the same benefits for success, life and career that I have been so blessed to receive from the education, community, and opportunities at Regent University.” Both alumnae are grateful for the opportunity to return to campus and celebrate their personal and academic accomplishments with the Class of 2022.
Kristen Hilferty (SOE ’21) with her sister Liz Montgomery (CAS ’17)
“When I heard they were inviting the 2020 and 2021 graduates back to walk,” Gillian recalled, “I felt it was a redemption of something so special that was taken from us by the circumstances at the time. We worked so hard to finish well, and I’m excited that now we finally get to celebrate alongside our classmates!” When asked by Impact to share her thoughts on commencement returning to an in-person format, Dr. Gomez spoke about the historical significance of this year’s ceremony: “It’s a celebration that has never been taken away across an entire nation since World War II. And so, to be able to celebrate our graduates after two long years of unprecedented lockdowns and challenges was not only a great honor but also a tremendous joy.”
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Inspired to Lead
Ezra Gingerich (CAS ’22)
Julianne Condrey (RSG ’22)
“He surrounded me with people who taught me God’s love, not his wrath,” said Ezra. “I was saved in a Baptist church in the Ozarks in 2015. They welcomed me with open arms and helped me achieve the first step of my educational journey.”
“You can let life’s challenges be like a 50 lb. backpack weighing you down and keeping you from moving forward, or you can use it as a step stool to reach higher,” said Julianne.
At 17, Ezra made the difficult decision to leave the only home he had ever known. With only an 8th-grade education and entirely cut off from his Amish family, the odds were stacked against him. But God put people in his life who were determined to see him succeed.
Ezra obtained his high school degree in just two years. Shortly after, he drove across the country from his hometown in Missouri to begin his Bachelor of Arts in Government at Regent. Here he saw God continue to provide for him in professors and friends he would come to know as family.
When unexpected illness and financial stress hit her family, Julianne’s plans for college were cut short, and she began working to help keep them afloat. That was the first of many roadblocks on her educational journey. But, she was reminded to put her faith in the Lord, knowing He was walking beside her, even when He felt absent.
“All my life has been about asking God what’s next for me. I want to be useful and know that I am doing something that matters ... I strive to be a voice of reason and understanding.”
After many years of helping to run the family business, raising her three sons, and volunteering in the community, Julianne decided to pursue her bachelor’s degree at the age of 45.
She was “building the plane while flying it,” first JULIANNE CONDREY completing her bachelor’s and RSG ’22 now her Master of Arts in Government while working While Ezra’s college journey full-time in the political was more complicated than field. She has served as chief most, he says his support system at Regent of staff to Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears of ultimately made it possible. Virginia since January. “I merely followed what God put on my heart, and He took care of the rest,” said Ezra. “Like Job, I lost everything when I left my family. And like Job, God has provided me with far more than I ever had.”
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“All my life has been about asking God what’s next for me. I want to be useful and know that I am doing something that matters,” said Julianne. “There’s a lot of divisiveness, and I strive to be a voice of reason and understanding.”
Meet Eight Tenacious Graduates Who Turned Their Trials Into Triumphs to Help & Inspire Others
Terrilyn “Terri” Lewis (SOE ’22)
After her nephew became the victim of gun violence at the age of 15, Terri decided that she needed to take action. “You see gun violence all the time on TV, and you hear it on the news,” said Terri. “But you never think that it will happen to your own family. It changes you.” Her nephew’s murder motivated her to begin pursuing her doctorate in education. She sees schools as a crucial piece to reforming and uplifting her home community. By working in an administrative position, she wants to spearhead programs in her hometown that will enrich students’ lives and give them hope. “I want to get back to Norfolk because there’s a great need there,” said Terri. “The children need to know that they have a future.” Terri faced immense loss once again on her educational journey with her mother’s unexpected passing last December. She credits her mother as her biggest supporter, explaining how she was constantly in prayer over Terri.
Boniface Odong (SOD ’22)
Boniface arrived in New Jersey from Uganda with only $30 in his pocket and a dream to pursue higher education. He had lost his parents and siblings in the turmoil of war in Uganda and had no connections or family in the States. But he stepped out on faith for the Lord’s provision. “I thank God for when he brought me to America. I thought: ‘I have arrived,’” said Boniface. “Uganda was my Egypt. America is my promised land.” After two years of earning his master’s degree at another university, Boniface’s visa was nearing its expiration, and he didn’t know where to turn next. As he drove down the highway to say his goodbyes to his community, he felt the Lord calling him to take a different route—a path that would bring him directly to Regent. He parked at the School of Divinity building and within hours he was accepted into the school and had received a scholarship. Without that financial support, he says his dream would not have been made a reality.
“One thing my mother made sure of was that all of her children knew how to pray,” Terri said. “So that’s what I’ve been doing, just totally leaning into the Lord.”
“I am so indebted to Regent University. My story will never be told without giving credit to this institution that has made me who I am today,” said Boniface.
She chose to walk the stage this spring for her master’s degree in honor of her mother and will continue to pursue her doctorate in the fall.
Boniface pledges that one day he will establish a scholarship at Regent in the name of his mother, who encouraged him in his desire to pursue an education before her passing.
“The Lord didn’t promise us that we would have all good days. But He is there with us every step of the way,” said Terri. 7
Karen Aroche Jimenez (SON ’22)
Deyonta Johnson (SBL ’22)
“There was a lot of pressure that I placed on myself to stay safe so that I wouldn’t bring any illness to my patients or home to my parents,” said Karen. “Of course, that was very isolating.”
Deyonta shared, “It was the most caring environment I’ve ever seen in a school setting.”
It was early in Karen’s nursing career when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. She saw the halt of life-saving surgeries for her patients and struggled with the knowledge that she could not meet their needs.
“I consider my faith stronger now than when I entered the program,” Karen said.
Deyonta empathizes with many of the teenagers he has encountered in his various roles at the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice over the past seven years. He grew up in a single-parent household in a subsidized housing project plagued with crime and poverty. Without the steadfast support of his mother and grandmother, he knows that he may have ended up walking the same path as the youth that he has supervised.
Karen credits her Guatemalan and Dominican parents, who immigrated to the United States before she was born, as major influences in her life that helped her overcome the hardships of balancing “pandemic nursing” and her studies.
His now published DSL project, “From Destitute to Debonair: SEMPLE Tips to Redefining Yourself as a Leader,” was envisioned as an interactive book that could give hope to struggling teens, providing them with the tools to be successful.
“They both just wanted the best for me when they came here, and they’ve always taught me that I can do anything as long as I work hard,” said Karen. “They gave me this motivation to keep working harder to help as many people as possible.”
“I don’t take for granted the opportunities that have been given to me, knowing that coming from this community, I am the exception to the rule,” said Deyonta. “To God be the glory for putting people in my life who believed in me even when I doubted myself.”
But she found community as she pursued her Master of Nursing degree at Regent, connecting with students who were experiencing the same challenges as her. Regent encouraged her to grow in her faith. She says she came away from each assignment with more knowledge of the Word.
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When Deyonta arrived at Regent for his Doctor of Strategic Leadership residency, he thought to himself: “‘What am I doing here? Do I deserve to be here?’” But the genuine support he found from the faculty quickly put aside his doubts and affirmed his calling to serve the troubled youth of his community with his degree.
Brandon Akers (LAW ’22)
When Brandon began considering law school, he didn’t know what area he should specialize in within the field of law. All he knew was that he wanted to use his degree to help others and serve the Lord.
Elizabeth Loewer (SPC ’22)
Elizabeth’s passion for serving the mission community through psychology began from her own experience growing up with missionary parents in Kenya.
She describes herself as a third-culture kid, growing up in a culture different from her Brandon’s decision to attend Regent was solidified after talking to the School of Law parents’ upbringing. When she came to America for college, she found she had a faculty about his goals and desires for his knack for mentoring younger students and career. When the faculty asked to pray for helping third-culture kids him, he said he knew Regent like herself navigate their would be the perfect place to pursue his law degree. identities. “I’ve seen Him be “What was very helpful at Regent was that they kept everything in perspective,” said Brandon, adding that there was always an extra 10 minutes before each class devoted to time in the Word. “You’re doing everything for the glory of God, and this is a way that you can serve Him.”
faithful every time I’ve started over. I’ve seen how He has provided for me ... He is the one leading my future.” ELIZABETH LOEWER SPC ’22
As he went through his courses at Regent, Brandon eventually found what he calls his vocation: estate planning law. “I thought, this is how I can help families,” said Brandon. “It just seemed like a place with so many simple solutions. If you know what to do, you can help so many people from losing money.” Brandon is set to join a firm in Illinois focused on estate planning and elder care law. He told Impact that he is excited to help educate clients about the best decisions they can make for their property.
“I knew from older mentors that often you can sort through that identity into your 20s and 30s,” said Elizabeth. “I felt passionate about that and the mentoring ministry.”
After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Elizabeth spent three years in Germany working as a resident assistant in a boarding school for missionary kids, an experience that she said confirmed her calling to support missionary families. As she pursued her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at Regent, she explored her cultural identity and grappled with creating a home for herself in a new city once again. Through it all, she leaned on God’s faithfulness, remaining open to wherever He may call her next. “I’ve seen Him be faithful every time I’ve started over. I’ve seen how He has provided for me,” said Elizabeth. “I’ve grown in confidence over the years that He is the one leading my future.”
Through the World Changer Scholarship fund, your gift helps increase access to education for students, reducing long-term debt that can hinder a student’s ability to pursue their calling after college. Join us in training up Christian leaders like these inspiring graduates. Become a World Changer sponsor today at regent.edu/worldchanger. 9
2,559 Graduates
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States Countries Represented
33,000+ Regent Alumni Prepared to Make a Difference
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Created to Glorify Him Regent University names Virginia’s Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears the 2022 Alumnus of the Year
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insome Earle-Sears, a 2003 graduate from the School of Business & Leadership (SBL), is a woman of many firsts. In fact, the Regent University 2022 Alumnus of the Year Award-winner has been breaking down barriers her entire adult life.
So, she shared her concerns with a professor. “We prayed together and realized I should be in the school for leadership,” she recalled. “So, I graduated from SBL with an M.A. in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Government. And here I am, the lieutenant governor.”
On November 3, 2021, Earle-Sears became Regent welcomed Earle-Sears, her husband, the first female in Virginia’s 400-year legislative history to be elected lieutenant Terence, and her family as distinguished governor. Born in Jamaica, guests to the 42nd Commencement on her family immigrated to May 7. After receiving New York City when she “For what purpose her Alumnus of the Year was 6 years old. That makes are you here? You are her the first naturalized Award, she delivered an here to glorify Him.” citizen to serve as the inspiring speech to graduates, urging them to embrace Old Dominion State’s WINSOME EARLE-SEARS their true calling in life. lieutenant governor. REGENT UNIVERSITY 2022 ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR
Her other impressive accomplishments include: Serving as a U.S. Marine; becoming an electrician and small-business owner; leading a men’s prison ministry; working as director of a women’s shelter; and, in 2001, becoming the first black, veteran, Republican woman elected to Virginia’s House of Delegates. Earle-Sears began studying for her Master of Arts degree at the Robertson School of Government (RSG) in 2000. “I knew I wanted to be in government somehow,” she said. “So, I was getting a master’s in public policy. About a year after being there, it just didn’t seem right.”
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Earle-Sears cited Isaiah 43:7, explaining how God created the graduates for His glory—to glorify Him. “That’s it. So, it’s not to get a job. It’s not to get fame and fortune. No. Why are you here? For what purpose are you here? You are here to glorify Him.” She also challenged Regent’s newest alumni to remember Jesus’ prayer in John 17, so they can make a positive and lasting impact on the world around them: “As God talking to God, He didn’t pray that you would be taken out of the world. Jesus says no, no, no. Y’all are staying, and you have to know how to deal with it. And so, I say to you: Don’t lose
yourself. Don’t lose your family because all of these trappings are going to be gone one day.”
earliest, brilliant statesmen and stateswomen of character.”
Immediately after commencement, the lieutenant governor spoke with Impact. She shared her thoughts about Regent University’s legacy and calling to serve others as a Christian leader to change the world.
“Faith is what has gotten me through. I couldn’t have come this far without God,” Earle-Sears replied. “It’s all the Lord. Whatever I do, I really try to do it for Him
“It’s awesome how one man—one man— started all this: Dr. Pat Robertson,” she said. “When you say to yourself, ‘You can’t.’ Just remember, it only takes one. A committee of one will do marvelous things.” She continued, “I never planned any of this. I never wanted to be lieutenant governor. It was something that never crossed my mind. … But God called me. And I answered, because—here’s the thing—no matter what you do in life, you don’t want to do it if God isn’t in it.” Earle-Sears was also actively involved in other key commencement events at Regent. She delivered the keynote address at the SBL Commissioning—becoming the school’s 15th Alumni Hall of Distinction inductee. She also gave the invocation at the RSG Commissioning. Following that service, RSG Dean Michele Bachmann presented Earle-Sears with the school’s Distinguished Statesman Award. Earle-Sears is only the third person—and the first woman—to receive the prestigious honor, which Bachmann said recognizes “a current or recent statesman who has served in government in the pattern of America’s
Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears and Gov. Glenn Youngkin
because if He doesn’t see it, then I’ve wasted my time. … All of this is going to burn up, and it’s not going to matter. What’s going to matter is: Do you know Him, and did you obey Him? So, that’s what I’m trying to do.” Please join the entire university community in congratulating and praying for Virginia’s Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears (SBL ’03), Regent’s 2022 Alumnus of the Year.
RSG Dean Michele Bachmann presenting Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears with the school’s Distinguished Statesman Award
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Celebrating the Life & Legacy of
Adelia “Dede” Robertson
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n Monday, April 25, 2022, the Robertson family, along with close friends, dignitaries, faculty, and staff, gathered in Regent University’s Shaw Chapel to celebrate the remarkable life of Mrs. Adelia “Dede” Robertson.
medical missions, working tirelessly to bring humanitarian and medical aid to hurting people throughout the world.
Serving on Regent’s Board of Trustees since the school’s founding in 1978, Dede is recognized for her significant impact and substantial contributions to fulfilling the Beloved wife of Dr. M.G. “Pat” Robertson, university’s mission of equipping Christian Dede passed away peacefully into the arms of leaders to change the world. Her legacy of her Lord on April 19 at her home in Virginia beauty, elegance and grace Beach. She was 94. can be seen in her artist’s Dede was a founding touch and designer’s She is clothed with strength member of the boards of influence in every building and dignity; she can laugh The Christian Broadcasting across campus. Network, Inc., Regent at the days to come. Dede was faithful in her University and Operation She speaks with wisdom, devotion to God and Blessing International. and faithful instruction family, always putting the In 1982, Dede was needs of others before her is on her tongue. ... appointed as the principal own. The true embodiment Honor her for all that her U.S. delegate to the Interof a Proverbs 31 woman, American Commission hands have done, and she dedicated her life to of Women, representing serving the Lord and caring let her works bring her the United States from for her family. praise at the city gate. 1982 to 1990. In that “My mother had so many capacity, she played a PROVERBS 31:25-31 virtues. I never heard her key role in elevating the complain or want to give status of women living up. She was steadfast. in Latin America. That’s what Dad needed Dede was also an beside him all these years; accomplished writer, a steadfast partner who authoring two books, continually read and studied the Bible. She My God Will Supply and The New You, and was not too concerned about herself. She was a monthly column, All in a Woman’s Day selfless. I always saw that growing up. She for Christian Life Magazine. would make sure we had before she had,” daughter, Elizabeth Robinson, said. A gifted and compassionate nurse, Dede earned her Master of Nursing degree from “My wife was a woman of great faith, the prestigious Yale University School of a champion of the Gospel, and a remarkable Nursing. She often put her nursing skills to servant of Christ who has left an indelible use on behalf of CBN, Operation Blessing print on all that she set her hand to during International, and The Flying Hospital’s her extraordinary life,” said Pat Robertson. 14
A Life of Faithfulness & Service
As the spring sun filtered through the stainedglass windows of Shaw Chapel that bears Dede’s signature design, warm memories and loving tributes flowed for the first lady of Regent University. Her faithfulness to God, family and a missional calling spanned seven decades and touched hundreds of millions of souls around the world. “More than anyone else, Grandma taught me how to love the people and the nations of the world,” granddaughter, Laura Krauss, shared. Daughter, Ann LeBlanc, recounted wonderful memories of a dedicated mother and pillar of faith. “She taught me the faithfulness of God. When people fail you, He will never let you down.” Son, Gordon Robertson, shared photos and gave insight into his mother’s fondness for family and fun and her perseverance in facing health challenges. “To say, ‘this isn’t going to define me. I am going to be the stroke survivor who likes to party.’ That’s all she ever wanted to do. Saying, ‘let’s come together. Let’s have good times together.’” “She lived her life to glorify God and honor Him. We are all here today because we are the fruit of her prayers,” daughter, Elizabeth Robinson, shared poignantly. Son, Tim Robertson, spoke of his mother’s commitment to the life of the unborn and her love of knitting—displaying samples of lovingly crafted baby blankets and booties. “Even after a stroke with the use of only one hand, she made this unbelievable blanket for one of my newest grandchildren.” Dede’s pastor, Dan Backens of New Life Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia, praised her faithfulness in devotion to God and family. He then challenged all in attendance to aspire to live to the same standards of grace and endurance so wonderfully evident in Dede’s life. In a moving conclusion to the service, former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell with Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears presented a Virginia state flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in Dede’s honor, signifying the impact of the organizations she co-founded with her husband. “On behalf of Gov. Youngkin and a grateful state, thank you,” said Gov. McDonnell.
Going Above & Beyond Regent Welcomes Five New Members to the Prestigious Society of the Crown and Shield
Top Row: Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell (LAW ’89), Jack Shaw, Marvin “Buster” Orr Bottom Row: Cheryl McLeskey, Jane Shaw, Jeanie Orr
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hrough an elite association known as The Society of the Crown and Shield, Regent University honored five generous benefactors who have given $1 million or more over their lifetime at an exclusive commissioning ceremony in April. As partners in Regent’s mission for several decades, the 2022 inductees have helped produce new generations of Christian leaders who are transforming cultures and nations for God’s glory. Candidates for The Society of the Crown and Shield are confirmed each spring and inducted into membership at a special ceremony held in anticipation of Regent’s annual commencement weekend. This year’s event honored Cheryl McLeskey, Marvin “Buster” & Jeanie Orr, and Jack & Jane Shaw with a dinner and piano concert on April 22 in the beautiful lobby of Regent’s Communication & Performing Arts Center. Regent’s Vice President for Advancement Chris Lambert welcomed more than 80 guests at this year’s commissioning event. Those in attendance included the inductees, along with families, friends, board of trustees, faculty, and staff. Dr. M.G. “Pat” Robertson, Regent’s founder, chancellor and CEO, opened the event with prayer: “Father, we thank you that we can gather together. Thank you for this lovely place. Thank you for the glory of God. Thank you for these dear people who are being 16
honored tonight, and we pray that you will bless this meeting and everyone who’s here. May we sense the presence and power of the Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you now, in Jesus’ name, amen.” Regent began the tradition of The Society of the Crown and Shield in 2016. The celebration continues as a unique way to acknowledge and thank significant mission partners for their cherished friendship and incredible generosity to the university. Before the first inductee was introduced, Lambert shared: “Scripture tells us, ‘For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also’ (Luke 12:34). Today, we honor benefactors who have chosen to place their treasure in the form of their time, talents and finances with Regent University. As co-laborers, these individuals have played an active role in shaping the history and future of Regent University.” A longtime Regent University Board of Trustees member, Danny Sellers, introduced Cheryl McLeskey for induction, calling her “a lifelong friend of Regent University” who served as a board member from 2006 to 2013 and has generously supported the university and its students. “Her passion is serving the Lord through Christian leadership, and her love for Regent is born out of a belief that it is one of the leading universities in America that still believes
After being the first inductee to receive the society’s distinguished Medal of Honor—cast in precious silver with the Regent crest at its center—McLeskey explained how her investment in the university became personal.
Chairman of the Board of Trustees Phil Walker introduced the evening’s final inductees: Jack & Jane Shaw. Walker, who has known the Shaw family for half a century, said: “Regent University has been blessed by their friendship and generosity. The university’s center of worship, prayer and spiritual life bears their name: Shaw Chapel.”
“I’ve gotten to know the heart and vision of Pat and Dede Robertson, which has made me love them,” said McLeskey. “Many great American universities started as Christian schools, and then went the way of the world. I’m so happy to invest in a university that for 45 years has stayed true to its founding principles of integrating faith and education so that we train a new generation of Christian leadership to change the world.”
Dr. Robertson calls the Shaws “dear friends” and remembers Jack’s father, Erby, as an “ardent supporter” of the school’s mission to train the next generation of Christian leaders to change the world. In addition to their significant contributions to strengthening and fortifying Regent’s future, the Shaws established the W.E. Erby and Mittie Shaw Divinity Endowed Scholarship in December of 2015 to honor Jack’s parents.
Regent’s Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. William L. Hathaway, introduced the next inductees: Marvin “Buster” & Jeanie Orr. Hathaway spoke about the couple’s “legacy of love that spans nearly two-thirds of a century.” Married in June of 1956, the Orrs’ strong faith also has inspired a legacy of giving.
For more than four decades, the Shaws have played a pivotal role in Regent’s tremendous growth, global impact and ongoing success. In closing, Walker stated, “As humble and generous servants of Jesus Christ, they have chosen to bless our university over the years, not for publicity or recognition, but to inspire others to do the same.”
The humble couple’s love and support for Regent began in the late 1970s. In 2006, the couple started directly blessing students by establishing and funding The Marvin “Buster” and Jeanie Orr Endowed Scholarship. They also donated the beautiful stained-glass window behind the pulpit in Shaw Chapel to honor their late son-in-law.
After their medal presentation, Jane shared, “What a blessing it is for the Lord to provide opportunities for us to help the causes He directs us to.” Then Jack added, “I want to say that Pat Robertson, in my life personally, and Regent University mean more to me than I can ever mean to you. I thank the Lord that, even at this time in my life, this university fulfills a longing I will have until Jesus calls me home. That is to see souls born into the Kingdom of God.”
and teaches our nation’s Judeo-Christian heritage with a biblical worldview.”
After receiving their medallions, the Orrs made it clear that all glory and honor belong to Jesus. Buster and Jeanie insist they’re simply instruments for spreading God’s blessings to others. “It means so much that we are part of such a wonderful ministry,” Jeanie told those in attendance. “It’s all the blessings of the Lord, and when He decides to bless you, you can’t stop Him. You just have to hold on and see what happens next.” “The thing that kept inspiring us is we got letters from students after setting up a scholarship,” Buster explained. “Every year, we would get letters, and they would tell us how it had helped their lives to be able to get a good education and to grow a foundation that would help them improve themselves.” Adding, “I pray that God will continue to bless all of us so we can do more for people who sometimes can’t do for themselves. He knows what you do. And He will bless you for your love and your gifts.”
Lambert closed the evening by telling the newest members of The Society of the Crown and Shield that he could “see Christ” in each of them. “You give humbly. You give with a cheerful spirit. It’s truly an honor,” he said. “It’s a joy to be in front of you, and I thank you for that.” “This year’s five inductees have demonstrated an extraordinary passion and tremendous commitment to the vision of Regent University,” Robertson noted after the ceremony. “We chose to honor them for their sacrificial giving and for going above and beyond to equip Christian leaders to change the world.” For additional information about how you can support Regent University with your donation of cash, securities, annuities, trusts, bequests, and other gifts of equity or property, visit regent.edu/support or call 800.335.4409.
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Commencement is not only a celebration of student accomplishments. It’s also an opportunity to honor Regent University’s faculty and staff members for their contribution to the graduates’ success. The Chancellor Award is given annually to an outstanding faculty member who exemplifies a profound commitment to Regent’s mission and students. This year’s recipient is Dr. Glenn Koonce, an associate professor and program chair within the university’s School of Education. The award presentation was part of Regent’s 42nd Commencement Ceremony. Dr. William L. Hathaway, executive vice president for Academic Affairs, made the announcement and highlighted Dr. Koonce’s strong record of excellence.
Dr. Glenn Koonce
2022 Chancellor’s Award Recipient
“He has contributed to the university in numerous leadership capacities,” Hathaway explained. “Dr. Koonce regularly receives outstanding teaching reviews from his students. They praise him for his grace, wisdom, and passion for training educational leaders for success and Christlikeness. As one student wrote, ‘Dr. Koonce is a leader I aspire to be like.’” Koonce joined the Regent faculty in 2003, bringing with him a proven record of leadership as a combat squad leader with the 1st Air Cavalry Division during the Vietnam conflict. Koonce served in public education for almost 30 years, including as principal for multiple Hampton Roads-area schools and as a health and physical education teacher. When asked to share his thoughts on what it means professionally and personally to be recognized with this prestigious award, Dr. Koonce told Impact: “I can’t think of a more humbling experience here at Regent than to be recognized for excellence by Dr. Robertson. I hope that, through my work, I have enhanced the Regent University mission and goals for my students as they prepare to be school principals and superintendents.” Koonce added, “With my colleagues in the School of Education, we prepare Christian leaders who will profoundly impact the greater society. Our graduates are servant leaders on the front line and must lead with the heart, putting people first while at the same time providing strategic leadership for student success.” Please join the entire university community in congratulating Dr. Glenn Koonce as a Regent faculty “World Changer.”
Thank You!
Your prayers and financial gifts equipped and are sending out more than 2,500 new Christian leaders to change the world as members of the Class of 2022. Thank you for your continued commitment to the mission of Regent University. regent.edu/worldchanger
Dear Friend, As you read the stories in this issue highlighting the events of Regent University’s 42nd Commencement Weekend, along with the inspiring testimonies of our graduates, I hope that, like me, you are filled with a renewed hope for the future and gratitude for the Lord’s work being accomplished here. Following two years of restrictions wrought by the pandemic, we praised the Lord for the opportunity to gather in-person to celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates. As I looked over the Library Plaza, I was overjoyed to witness a historic gathering of more than 10,000 people, including our graduates, alumni, families, friends, faculty, staff, and distinguished guests. We were honored to confer 2,559 graduate and undergraduate degrees, making the class of 2022 the largest graduating class in our history. It was a celebration of all that we hold dear at Regent University and a testament to God’s sanction of our mission to change the world through Christian leadership. We were honored to be joined by dignitaries who are exemplars of Christian leadership, among them: Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who delivered the inspirational commencement address; Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, the recipient of the 2022 Regent Alumnus of the Year Award; and Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, who served as keynote speaker at the School of Law Commissioning. Throughout the commencement weekend, I was blessed to feel the presence of my beloved wife, Adelia “Dede” Robertson, who passed away in April. I hope you will read about Dede’s remarkable life and be inspired by her love of God and her many talents evident all over our beautiful campus. Thank you for your continued support and prayers over Regent and our faculty, staff and students as we work together to change the world through Christian leadership. May God bless you!
Dr. M.G. “Pat” Robertson Founder, Chancellor & CEO Regent University
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” I PETER 2:9
Regent University’s Impact is published monthly by the university’s Office of Advancement, free of charge, for alumni and friends of the university. Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees. Contact the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Regent University. Regent University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin, disability, age or veteran status in admissions, treatment or access to its programs and activities, or in the administration of educational policies, scholarships, loan programs, athletics or other University programs. In addition, Regent does not discriminate based on religion, except as necessary to comply with Regent’s Standard of Personal Conduct and Statement of Christian Community and Mission. View the full nondiscrimination policy at regent.edu/nondiscrim. Questions or concerns regarding discrimination based on sex may be directed to the University’s Title IX Coordinator at T9Coordinator@regent.edu, or the US Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights at OCR@ed.gov. To learn more about Disability Services or to contact Regent's Section 504 coordinator, visit regent.edu/disability. Regent University is authorized to operate in the state of Virginia and is exempt from the requirements of certification by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. Opinions expressed in Impact are those of individuals and do not necessarily represent the views of Regent University’s board, faculty, administration or staff. Regent University accepts news submissions from readers but reserves the right to edit based upon clarity, length and content. The university may decline to print material at its discretion. ADV220524
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