Evanston, Illinois
- Rodney Robinson
Why did you choose to attend EHS?
Better opportunity to get an excellent education and be well positioned to get into a top-tier college.
You returned to campus this summer for your 25th reunion. What was it like to be back at Episcopal and to reconnect with your classmates?
It was great to reconnect with classmates and share stories from our days on the Hill. Whether it was in the classroom, on the athletic field, or on dorm, we all have a common experience that bonded us together. It was also great connecting with older and younger alumni and listening to their experiences as well.
What is your favorite EHS memory?
Mr. Shelor’s attention to my development in his chemistry class.
Do you have a favorite lesson that you learned at EHS?
Definitely the honor system. The Honor Code made everything transparent in how we went about our character building at The High School and beyond.
How did your EHS experience impact your life?
EHS provided the confidence to do anything and take risks. I’ll always say that I never studied as hard in college as I did in high school. EHS provided a great educational foundation. Additionally, the connections made at EHS across generations are greatly appreciated from my time serving on the Board of Trustees, as well as my professional career.
Tell us something we probably don't know about you.
I am now officially a tennis nut. While I was big on baseball, football, and soccer at EHS, the majority of my free time is spent on the tennis courts. A big thanks to Coach Hank Harris for fixing my serve during Reunion Weekend.
What's your philanthropic philosophy?
My family set up a family foundation in 2004 to create a lasting legacy and vehicle for giving back to important causes. I want to ensure that my daughters, Maia and Brennan, understand the importance of giving back to charitable causes as well. I’ve had many people help me along the way, and it’s only right to do the same for others.
Why do you give to Episcopal?
EHS created a great foundation for me as a person and was truly a home away from home while I was a student there. I am very impressed with the transformational changes led by Rob Hershey to the campus, curriculum, and student body. I’m proud to say that I am an alumnus and will always be an ardent supporter of the School.