Rob was born in Frankfurt, Germany, and became a naturalized citizen of the U.S. while growing up on a farm in East Tennessee.  He graduated in the Top Ten of his class at Whitwell High School.  Rob attended Tennessee Tech University before transferring to UT-Chattanooga to complete his BA Degree with a double major in English and Communications.  After 30+ years of work in the electric utility industry in several roles including communications, marketing and engineering, Rob was able to retire and start a new chapter in his life with a position in higher education here at Cumberland University.

As an avid traveler with his wife, Ashlee, Rob has visited all 50 states and over 20 countries.  Five cats and a dog keep him busy when he’s at home here in Lebanon.  Other hobbies include attending live music events, supporting his favorite sports teams, going to the movies, and photography.