Dr. Bob was born in Hinton, West Virginia but grew up in Morgantown. He is the oldest of six children born to a coal miner and stay at home mom.
He was the first of his family to graduate from college, earning a BA degree in Education from West Virginia University and later a MA degree from the same university in Education Administration. He then earned his doctorate in Education Administration from Virginia Tech.
As a youth, he did not have the opportunity to be a 4-H member, although his mother was in her youth in her home county of Raleigh. While teaching in a rural community grade school in Webster County, WV, Bob was given the opportunity to serve as assistant 4-H club leader of the Diana Busy Bees 4-H Club. Long-time Webster County 4-H agent Thelma Pickens recruited Bob and requested his help with two weekend camps at Camp Caesar 4-H Camp. Two years later, he was hired as Webster County 4-H Agent after Ms. Pickens rextired.
His career included the following:
- Elementary School Teacher (2 years)
- 4-H Agent, Webster County, WV (6 years)
- 4-H Agent, Monongalia County, WV (2 years)
- 4-H Agent, New Hanover County, NC (3 years)
- Program Director, Airfield 4-H Educational Center, VA (7 years)
- State 4-H Specialist, VA Tech, VA (8 years)
- Associate Director, 4-H and State 4-H Leader, Virginia Cooperative Extension (7 years)
Now retired, he is married to Connie and has two daughters, and five grandchildren. He continues involvement in 4-H serving as 4-H club leader and as a member of the Frederick County Leadership Council.
