While America reached new heights in 1968 with Boeing's 747 jumbo jet's first flight and the Apollo 8 mission became the first to orbit the moon (when Astronaut Frank Borman famously announced, “Houston, please be informed there is a Santa Claus”), my life was transforming profoundly. My heart was overflowing with joy and anticipation as I married Grace, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and shared dreams. Additionally, I took a significant step in my professional journey by attending my first ASAS Meeting.
Reflecting on my life’s journey, I am truly humbled by how it has unfolded. Growing up on a dairy farm in Connecticut, I never imagined that my path would be filled with such unexpected and thrilling adventures. In my family, I was the first to attend college and a first-generation college graduate. I earned my B.S. in dairy science from the University of Connecticut (UConn), followed by an M.S. and a Ph.D. in animal reproductive physiology at Michigan State University (MSU). During those pivotal years, I was fortunate to receive guidance and mentorship from the esteemed Drs. Harold Hafs, Allen Tucker, and Jack Britt at MSU. Each of these professors was a passionate supporter of ASAS!
Grace and I first crossed paths during our grad school days at MSU, living in the same dorm. We've been blessed with three wonderful kids—Robert Jr., Rebecca, and Beth—and five amazing grandchildren (if I do say so myself!).
Grace grew up in a farming community in Connecticut and was active in 4-H, developing her desire to serve her community and to make the world a better place. She pursued a degree in education at UConn. Before embarking on her grad school journey at MSU, Grace dedicated herself to the Peace Corps, touching lives in Brazil's small rural communities through the ACAR 4-S program. Her commitment to 4-H never wavered, and she served as a leader of the Cloverleaf 4-H Club for many cherished years.
Admittedly, being part of ASAS has not been just my journey but has been more of a dynamic duo adventure with Grace as my trusty sidekick. She has joined me for nearly 40 Annual Meetings, earning her the title of “Honorary ASAS Member!” These meetings have been the cornerstone of our summer escapades and family vacations. Back in the day, they were held on college campuses, and Grace and I would channel our inner explorers, camping along the way. I vividly recall our first Annual Meeting in 1968 at OSU—where we drove from MSU and endured the kind of heat that makes you question the sanity of living in Oklahoma. And then, four years later, irony had the last laugh as I joined the OSU faculty, and we've been calling it home for 52 years (Go POKES!).
ASAS is an extended family to us and our children. Our kids connected with the children of other ASAS members and looked forward to each annual gathering. Just like us, they have formed lifelong friendships through these meetings.
ASAS is also my "academic family," and I'm sure many of you can relate! Our meetings are like family reunions, where we catch up with friends from all stages of our academic journeys. ASAS has been a fantastic platform for sharing and publishing research, connecting with professionals worldwide, inspiring graduate students, and forming lifelong friendships. Thanks to ASAS, we have friends all over the globe, and it's fun to stay updated on everyone's achievements and keep current with the profession.
During this season of Thanksgiving, we look forward to December 3rd, Giving Tuesday, a day when we unite to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. It serves as a reminder of the power of collective action and the impact we can have when we come together for a common cause. I invite you to join Grace and me in supporting the ASAS Foundation on Giving Tuesday (and yes, no need to wait, you can make a gift now, click here - ASAS Giving Tuesday 2024). Together, let's unite and share the incredible benefits and opportunities we've been fortunate to experience in our careers, all thanks to the programs, members, and generous donors of ASAS!
The American Society of Animal Science would like to thank and recognize Bob and Grace for their service and contributions to ASAS and the ASAS Foundation. Bob has received the Physiology and Endocrinology Award, the Animal Management Award, the Distinguished Service Award by the Southern ASAS, the L.E. Casida Award, and the Morrison Award. He has served as an ASAS Foundation Trustee, on the Public Policy Committee, was President of Southern ASAS (1999) and national ASAS (2009), and is an ASAS Fellow. Additionally, Bob and Grace were the generous 2023 Signature Hosts for the Annual Opening Session.
