Dear Friend,
At Regent University’s 43rd Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 6, none of us knew how much time the school’s Founder, Chancellor, and CEO, Dr. M.G. “Pat” Robertson, had left before God would call him home to Glory. It turns out that my good friend and faithful servant of the Lord was in his final days on earth. Dr. Robertson passed away on June 8, surrounded by his loved ones, at the age of 93—less than 14 months after losing his beloved wife, Dede.
It was my great blessing and privilege to know him and serve alongside him on Regent’s board of trustees for many years. Most recently, as the board’s chairman, I worked closely with Dr. Robertson to ensure the university’s legacy of equipping Christian leaders to change the world will outlive the both of us.
The university now has more than 35,000 alumni from all 50 states and 120+ countries. The entire Regent community is proud of what these men and women have accomplished, and we praise God for all they are doing—and will do—as Christian leaders to change the world.
In the Library Plaza that day, Dr. Robertson delivered what would be his final charge to Regent University graduates. He spoke about Romans 8:37, which was the Class of 2023’s Commencement verse: “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us” (NKJV).
He went on to explain what it means for believers in Jesus Christ to be “more than conquerors.” He insisted, “We’re not only supposed to win the battle. God wants us to take possession of the land.”
Dr. Robertson’s passing has ushered in a new era of leadership at Regent. His son, Gordon Robertson, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Christian Broadcasting Network and President of Operation Blessing, has been appointed chancellor of the university, effective July 10, 2023. My fellow Board of Trustee members and I look forward to working with Gordon to carry on Regent’s mission and the legacy of his father. I firmly believe that, under his leadership, the university will continue to thrive and impact future generations.
This special Commencement issue of IMPACT includes a tribute to Dr. Robertson, along with highlights and stories about this year’s graduation ceremony. Please keep reading to find out why Regent University remains one of the world’s leading academic centers for Christian thought and action. Thank you for your friendship and support as we continue this great work.
Sincerely,
Phillip D. Walker
Chairman, Regent University Board of Trustees
