Recently, we had the opportunity to sit down with board member and former Mount Mary University Chief Transformation and Innovation Officer, Bob Schwartz. As a dedicated advocate for educational equity, Bob brings both passion and expertise to our board, helping to empower students as they pursue their college and career goals.
Where are you from? What has your career journey been like?
I grew up in New Jersey, near New York City, with parents who never attended college. My grandparents were immigrants from Eastern Europe. Seeing their children get an education was an essential goal of my parents. My brother, sister and I all attended college and we each went on to receive master’s degrees, thanks to our parent’s inspiration and support.
I trained as an industrial designer, and I have been fortunate to have a career that has taken me all over the US and to 30 countries around the world. I have had career stops in Washington, DC, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Greensboro, NC, Cincinnati, OH and for the last 17+ years, here in the Milwaukee area. Some of the places I’ve worked include the American Red Cross, The Advanced Medical Technology Association, Industrial Designers Society of America, Motorola, Newell Brands, Procter and Gamble, GE Healthcare, and Mount Mary University. I have a passion for sailing and think of the waters around San Diego, CA as a second home.
What college did you attend? What impact has going to college made in your life?
Always interested in creative pursuits, art and design and making things from a very early age, I attended the Kansas City Art Institute, where I received a BFA in Design and Rhode Island School of Design, where I obtained a master’s degree in industrial design.
My college education literally changed my life. Honestly, I was not the most motivated student in high school but found support from my parents and especially my art teachers who helped me find my way to college. There I was fortunate to encounter some incredible educators and mentors who helped to set me on a path to pursue my career in a strong, mission-based, social context. Wherever I worked, I have been able to find it. Even in corporate life.
How did you first find out about College Possible?
Our dear friends, Susan and Bob Mikulay, invited my wife, Carol, and me to purchase a table at the Dream Big Dinner six or seven years ago. After attending that event we were hooked! The story of College Possible Wisconsin and especially the student stories were so compelling, and we have been supporters ever since. When I pivoted my career into higher education 4 ½ years ago, College Possible and its association with Mount Mary University, became even more a part of my landscape.
Why did you choose to serve on the College Possible board? What about College Possible is so meaningful to you?
Over the years, the wonderful relationships I have experienced with other supporters and with the team at College Possible Wisconsin have drawn me closer to the mission. Especially when I began working at Mount Mary University and with its incredible cohort of young women, the direct value of College Possible Wisconsin’s mission became even more clear. When Marco invited me to join the board, “He had me at hello!” I am excited for the opportunity to contribute and pay it forward. In my mind, helping others have the chance to go to college like I did is as rewarding as it gets.
What impact do you hope to make by being on the College Possible board?
During my long career and in life, I have had the gift of so many mentors and those who supported me through the tough times. I hope to contribute what I can in the same way, while also being a vocal advocate with whoever will listen. If I can help raise a little money too, then all the better!
