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Regent University Honors Representative Scott Rigell as Alumnus of the Year

It’s just business.

Those three words spur so much power in the American marketplace. But it’s never just about business for Regent University’s 2015 Alumnus of the Year, U.S Representative Scott Rigell ’90, (School of Business & Leadership).

In fact, the discord between what he gleaned from the workplace versus what he learned from the Bible was what brought him to Regent in the first place.

“I just couldn’t get a handle on it,” said Rigell. “In the workplace it seemed like only profits, or only a selfish ambition was elevated. And then, when I transitioned into seeking public office, I heard: ‘Scott, it’s just politics.'”

Rigell believes that though these phrases are used, at times, “innocently enough,” they are a way of justifying the relinquishing of ethical business principles and faith.

“They make us believe that to succeed that we have to adopt way the world operates,” said Rigell. “Regent University rejects that premise. And though I’m still on this imperfect journey, I’m so grateful for what I’ve learned here.”

Due, in part, to his thankfulness for his education, at this year’s commissioning celebration for the School of Business & Leadership (SBL), Rigell presented a $100,000 donation to the school. This donation will fund an endowed scholarship in honor of this year’s outstanding SBL student, Roger Orozco.

Rigell serves as Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District representative and is dedicated to enriching the lives of others locally and around the world. As a former business owner, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve veteran and nonprofit advocate, Rigell serves the district with a breadth of experience to his work advancing education in low-income areas, strengthening the military and controlling federal spending.

Rigell is in his third term in the House of Representatives and continues to garner strong bi-partisan support as he changes the world from an influential political perspective.

“Regent University prepared me academically in the fields of finance, accounting, management, and leadership,” said Rigell. “An emphasis on servant leadership, a true Regent distinctive, was what made my experience so rewarding and enjoyable. I know it made me a better political and business leader, as well as a better husband, father and American.”

Rigell is thankful for the work being done at Regent to encourage his now 20,000 fellow alumni. To them, he simply says:

“Be bold in our vision for your life and future. Recognize not only the gifts God has given you, but more importantly, recognize that God is always with you.”

Learn more about Regent University’s Office of Alumni Affairs and the School of Business & Leadership.