Early Life and Education of Scott Bessent: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Scott Bessent, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Scott Bessent is an American government official, investor, and hedge fund manager. He currently serves as the 79th United States Secretary of the Treasury (since 2025). Prior to his government role, Bessent was a partner at Soros Fund Management. He also founded Key Square Group, a global macro investment firm, showcasing his entrepreneurial ventures in the financial sector.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

August 21, 1962: Scott Bessent Born

On August 21, 1962, Scott Kenneth Homer Bessent was born. He later became an investor, hedge fund manager, and U.S. Secretary of the Treasury.

Others born on this day/year

1984: Graduation from Yale University

In 1984, Scott Bessent earned a bachelor's degree in political science from Yale University, where he was also involved in various extracurricular activities such as being an editor of The Yale Daily News and president of Wolf's Head Society.

1984: Graduates from Yale and Joins Finance

In 1984, Scott Bessent graduated from Yale University and subsequently began his career in the finance industry.

2006: Becomes Adjunct Professor at Yale

In 2006, Scott Bessent became an adjunct professor of economic history at Yale University, where he taught three courses.

2011: End of Yale Professorship

In 2011, Scott Bessent concluded his role as an adjunct professor of economic history at Yale, where he had been teaching since 2006.

2011: Marriage to John Freeman

In 2011, Scott Bessent married John Freeman, a former New York City prosecutor.

2016: Purchase of John Ravenel House

In 2016, Scott Bessent purchased the historic John Ravenel House in Charleston.

2022: Foundation and Center Openings

In 2022, Scott Bessent opened two foundations and created the McLeod Rehabilitation Center at the Shriners Hospital for Children in Greenville, South Carolina.

November 2024: Pink Palace Listed for Sale

In November 2024, the John Ravenel House, known as the "Pink Palace", owned by Scott Bessent, was listed for sale for $22,250,000.

November 22, 2024: Nomination as Treasury Secretary

On November 22, 2024, President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate Scott Bessent as the United States Secretary of the Treasury, making Bessent the first openly gay treasury secretary.

December 10, 2024: Sale of Pink Palace Under Contract

As of December 10, 2024, the sale of Scott Bessent's "Pink Palace" was under contract.

December 28, 2024: Financial Disclosure

According to his December 28, 2024, financial assets disclosure by the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, Scott Bessent's net worth is at least $521 million.