Early Life

Born on March 5, 1965, in Houston, Texas, Don Scott was raised by his single mother, Helen Scott, alongside five siblings. Don learned early on the values of perseverance and hard work.

His remarkable academic talents led him to a magnet program in high school and ultimately to Texas A&M University, where he earned a degree in agriculture.

A natural leader, Don decided to use his skills and serve our nation. His military career began at Officer Candidate School in Rhode Island, where he became a surface warfare officer in the U.S Navy. His service instilled in him the discipline and determination that would become hallmarks of his political career.

From Setback to Comeback

Don’s life took a turn in 1994 when he was convicted of drug conspiracy charges and sentenced to ten years in prison.

After his release in 2002, Don began rebuilding his life. He worked tirelessly to prove that redemption is possible, rising through the ranks in the workforce development sector and ultimately opening his own law practice in Portsmouth, Virginia. He became an attorney in 2014, fulfilling a dream that once seemed out of reach. 

A History-Making Speaker

In 2019, Don entered politics with a vision to reform criminal justice, fight for economic prosperity, and expand public education. Running for the Virginia House of Delegates, he won the 80th district seat. 

But it was his leadership in the aftermath of the 2022 elections that truly solidified Don as a transformative figure. Don was elected by his peers as House Minority Leader, where quickly became known for being a fighter and his strategic vision for Virginia’s future.

In 2023, Don led the charge to regain control of the House and made history. On January 19, 2024, he was elected Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates—making him the first Black Speaker in Virginia’s 405-year history. This historic achievement is not just a personal triumph but a victory for every Virginian who believes in breaking barriers and creating new opportunities for all.

Under his leadership, Virginia has seen historic teacher pay raises, a focus on expanding health care access in all parts of the Commonwealth, and progress toward securing constitutional amendments protecting abortion rights, same-sex marriage, and voting rights for returning citizens. His efforts have solidified Virginia’s status as a top place to live, work, and do business.

A Legacy of Redemption 

On January 19, 2025, Don’s story of redemption reached its pinnacle when President Joe Biden granted him a pardon for his past conviction.

This act not only acknowledges Don’s personal transformation but also serves as a powerful reminder that redemption is possible for anyone, regardless of their past.

Community Champion

Beyond his historic political career, Don is deeply committed to his community.

He serves on several boards and holds a lifetime membership in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. American Legion Post 190, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 993, and the NAACP.

The Heart Behind the Leadership

Don’s personal life is grounded in the values that have guided him throughout his career: resilience, compassion, and love. He is married to Dr. Mellanda Y. Colson Scott, a dentist, and they have a teenage daughter. Together, they form a family rooted in strength, love, and a shared commitment to creating a better future.