Regent University Names Inaugural Recipient of the Royal Ambassador Award
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (Dec. 5, 2024) – Regent University selected alumnus John Pienkowski as the inaugural recipient of the Royal Ambassador Award, in recognition of his distinguished military service, nationally recognized impact as an educator, and influential graduate of the School of Education’s Career Switcher program.
On December 4, Regent University faculty, staff, and the university’s mascot Rex the Royal visited the technology lab at Brandon Middle School in Virginia Beach, VA, to surprise Pienkowski in front of his principal Kenneth D. Vaughan, who is also a Regent graduate, and his adoring students.
“John is a great leader who prioritizes the needs and well-being of others, especially his students,” said Dr. Mervyn J. Wighting, Professor & Program Director, Regent School of Education. “He is a skilled teacher who has been recognized nationally. I am just pleased to have been his mentor and now friend.”
After a 20-year career in the U.S. Navy, Pienkowski entered Regent’s Career Switcher program in Fall 2015 and smoothly transitioned from ship to classroom, earning his teaching certificate and ultimately a master’s degree.
Pienkowski went on to win the 2018 National Outstanding New Educator of the Year Award, a prestigious title given to inspiring new educators from across the country who have made measurable contributions to student growth and community success.
Today, Pienkowski is continuing to shape the future by introducing 7th and 8th graders to the boundless world of innovation as a Tech Ed & Computer Solutions Teacher, as well as a STEM Robotics Mentor.
Additionally, he regularly does television interviews and podcasts and uses other public engagements to encourage those looking to transition into a new field to value their career experience and consider making their mark on the world in the classroom.
“My Regent experience advanced my desire to be a Christian leader that’s changing the world—and when I help my students discover their promise and potential, I feel satisfied,” said Pienkowski. “To be a good leader, you also have to be a servant to those you train and lead. There is nothing like knowing you’re living your true purpose.”
The Royal Ambassador Award will be presented annually in recognition of Regent University students, alumnus, faculty, or other constituents whose contributions echo the university’s mission, exemplify transformational leadership, and inspire others to pursue excellence.
About Regent University
Founded in 1977, Regent University is America’s premier Christian university, with more than 13,000 students studying on its 70-acre campus in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and online around the world. The university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in more than 150 areas of study, including business, communication and the arts, counseling, cybersecurity, divinity, education, government, law, leadership, nursing, healthcare, and psychology. Regent University has been ranked the #1 Best Accredited Online College in the United States (Study.com, 2020), the #1 Safest College Campus in Virginia (YourLocalSecurity, 2021), and the #1 Best Online Bachelor’s Program in Virginia for 13 years in a row (U.S. News & World Report, 2025).
To support the Royals Rise capital campaign for campus expansion, visit www.regent.edu/royalsrise.
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