John Rivers built a career many would envy—including serving as CEO of Express Scripts, a Fortune 100 healthcare company, before founding the beloved 4 Rivers Smokehouse and earning recognition in the world of business and hospitality. But his real mission goes far beyond the boardroom - or the kitchen. 

Through the 4Roots Foundation, John is redefining what it means to lead with purpose by tackling one of the most overlooked foundations of health and community: food.

4Roots is rooted in a powerful idea—that what we eat, where it comes from, and how it's grown directly impacts our health, our neighborhoods, and our future. The foundation’s work includes education programs, regenerative farming, access to healthy food in underserved communities, and partnerships that connect local farmers to local schools and families.

For student-athletes and young entrepreneurs, John’s story is a powerful example of social entrepreneurship in action. He’s proof that success isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about how you give back, and how you use your influence to invest in something bigger than yourself.