Graduate Spotlight: Veteran Jose Rivas finds Lipscomb a place to flourish in pursuit of MBA
Kim Chaudoin |
Amidst the pomp and circumstance of Lipscomb University's commencement season, Jose Rivas reflects on the journey that has led him to this moment — the completion of his Master of Business Administration degree.
Rivas' path to academia began with a distinguished career in the United States Army, where he served from 2003 to 2009, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6). During his tenure, Rivas completed two combat tours in the Middle Eastern theater in support of "Operation Iraqi Freedom," serving in the providence areas of Samara, Taji and Baghdad. For his service he received two Army Commendation Medals, a Good Conduct medal and a Bronze Star that was awarded on his second deployment for leading a team in very hostile conditions. He also received multiple service ribbons including global war on terrorism service medal, national defense service medal and overseas service ribbon for his service. He was stationed primarily at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, with the 3/187 Rakkasans Battalion.
After concluding his military service, Rivas embarked on a new chapter by pursuing higher education. He chose Lipscomb “because of the reputation it carries among the military community and for being rated top in the nation when it comes to helping those who served or vets,” he explains.
There’s no better feeling in the world than looking back and reminiscing on all the hard work and dedication put forth to reach such a milestone and saying to yourself ‘I did it, I finally did it!’ — Jose Rivas
Rivas, who is vice president and Banking Center Manager at First Horizon and owns a rental property business in Nashville, first earned his Bachelor of Professional Studies degree from Lipscomb University in 2021 and then decided to pursue an MBA.
“I chose this degree to learn all that is associated in running a business,” he says. “One day I hope to contribute in a firm’s leadership team and with this accomplishment I feel more equipped with knowledge and understanding to be an effective leader.”
Lipscomb proved to be a place where Rivas has flourished.
“The experience at Lipscomb has always been extremely positive. The robust and up-to-date academic curriculum and teachings made it all worthwhile and fulfilling,” he says. “Being a student of my age group, mixed in with a much younger generation, also added to my own personal growth and memorable moments as I was able to gain new perspective and aspirations through their visions.”
“Everyone on the faculty team was very supportive and eager to see us succeed,” Rivas continues. “Each professor in their own way provided us with guidance and wisdom that has enabled me to view things differently and allowed me to become a better person. For that I am so appreciative.”
As he prepares to cross the stage and receive his MBA degree, Rivas acknowledges the significance of this milestone.
“I dedicate this accomplishment to my fallen military brothers who also aspired to go to college one day but never made it home from our 2005 overseas deployment,” reflects Rivas. “This is for you Sgt. Michael J Idanan and Cpl. Jimmy L. Shelton ‘Til Valhalla’ boys.”
“I like to thank God for being with me through this journey as well as my family and my daughter Rachelle for all the support they have given me. Obtaining this degree has allowed me to break through my own limitations. What I thought was hard to achieve, I have accomplished,” he continues. “There’s no better feeling in the world than looking back and reminiscing on all the hard work and dedication put forth to reach such a milestone and saying to yourself ‘I did it, I finally did it!’”