Doyle E. Carlton Award

Bob graduated cum laude from Stetson University in 1973 with a degree in Economics, alongside his wife, Patra ‘73. During his years at Stetson, Bob was recognized as a national debate winner and continued to use the skills he gained while here to effectively teach, speak publicly, and share his faith within his community.  After graduation, Bob continued his education at Stetson School of Law and received his JD in 1976.  He began his law career as a trial attorney in the Tampa Bay area, and eventually became certified by the Florida Supreme Court as a Circuit Civil Mediator and began his own mediation firm in 2001. In addition, Bob returned to Stetson School of Law as an adjunct professor, teaching courses in Alternative Dispute Resolution.  

In addition to his professional obligations, Bob understood the importance of serving his community well. He taught Bible study classes at his church for more than 35 years and served as Chairman of the School Board for Skycrest Christian School and Chairman of Deacons for Skycrest Baptist Church. Statewide, he held a position on the Florida Baptist State Missions Board from 1993-2000 and was an active member of the Christian Legal Society. One of the highlights of Bob’s connection to Stetson came later in 2012 when his son, Adam, was preparing to graduate from Stetson School of Law, following in his father’s footsteps. Bob, unfortunately, had been diagnosed several years earlier with a devastating illness, and Stetson made it possible not only for Bob to attend, but he was given the opportunity to personally present Adam with his diploma on stage. 

Bob spent his life serving in areas that gave him both passion and skill and that legacy has lived on since his passing in 2013. He and his wife Patra have three children and six grandchildren who we know are so proud of this husband, father, and grandfather. Bob honored the gifts of education Stetson provided him by a life well lived in service to God, his family, and his community.