Robert is an U.S. Air Force veteran, former IT professional, and current middle school teacher running for City Council in Manassas Park. With a deep commitment to family and community, Robert aims to bring innovative solutions to local challenges, help make living more affordable for residents and local businesses, and build a brighter future for everyone.
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After serving in the U.S. Air Force and receiving an Honorable Discharge, Robert worked in the publishing, financial services, and education technology sectors before becoming a career switcher and teacher of middle school students in career and technology education. However, middle school teaching is not Robert's first experience working with students. He also holds a Third Degree Black Belt in Krav Maga and taught martial arts to teens and adults for more than a decade. Robert holds a Bachelors degree in Computer Information Systems and is pursuing his Masters of Education in Educational Technologies and Artificial Intelligence.
Robert believes in inclusive and collaborative governance, valuing community engagement and participation. He understands that our voice and our vote are our power. He understands that community engagement and lending a helping hand is how we see the humanity in one another. No matter where he has lived, where he has served, or where he has worked, Robert has always found a way to help others. From leading community service programs as a member of his fraternity, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated, and volunteering to help raise funds for March of Dimes to serving on the Community Emergency Responses Team (CERT), attending Prince William County's Citizen Police Academy, or serving as a Director on Manassas Park's Economic Development Authority, Robert has been there, working hard to make life better for others and to create opportunities where everyone can thrive.
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Born in New York City and raised in the South Bronx, Robert spent many of his summers working on his grandfather's dairy farm in Naguabo, Puerto Rico, where much of his family still resides. Robert moved to Virginia in 1993 after marrying his wife, Michelle. They have been married for 33 years and are proud parents to their son who is completing his final year of college at a Virginia state university. They love living in the Park with their Siberian Husky, Makoda.
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A little known secret about Robert is that, beyond his love for martial arts, he has a great love of bowling and almost went pro when he was younger. He also is an avid Star Trek fan and baseball card collector.
Meet Robert
