Regent University Graduates Largest Class in its History

Regent University (RU), one of the leading Christian graduate schools in the nation, graduated the largest class in its 27-year history at its beautiful Virginia Beach campus on Saturday, May 7.

Regent Chancellor and President Dr. M. G "Pat" Robertson conferred degrees to a total of 879 graduates and delivered his charge before a 6,000-plus crowd gathered in Regent's Library Plaza, according to the university news release.

"The world is out there. Whatever you do, don't say that the old days were better. They weren't. The opportunities for this class are greater than any group of people have ever experienced in the history of mankind... The cry right now is for trained people who have integrity," said Robertson, also the founder of the Christian Coalition and head of the Christian Broadcasting Network.

The response to Robertson's charge was delivered by School of Psychology & Counseling graduate Barbara A. Steffens.

"I state emphatically that we humbly and willingly accept the call placed on our lives as Christian servant leaders, and as ambassadors for Jesus Christ in our world," Steffens told the audience.

The Keynote speaker for the event was United States Senator George Allen, a potential Republican candidate for president in 2008.

Allen encouraged the graduates, "Use your talents to serve others to the best of your ability," and further told them, "Your purpose, like America's purpose, is to lead the world ... in expanding freedom."

"Go forth and seize the opportunity to compete and succeed in this land of liberty," said the former Virginia governor 1994-1998. "I hope and pray that God will continue to bless our country with people of your integrity and especially of your character."

His final remarks urged graduates to "do as patriots have done throughout our history, no matter the challenge, no matter the choice, please, always stand strong for freedom."

William P. Fricks, Regent's chairman of the board of trustees, also delivered some words of encouragement to graduates.

"There is a world out there that awaits you. It needs your leadership, your moral courage, and the good news of Jesus Christ that is within you," Fricks said.

Founded in 1978, Regents University is a Christian institution of higher learning that seeks to provide "exemplary education, from a biblical perspective" to produce Christian leaders who will make a difference in the world and to be a "leading center of Christian thought and action."