COLUMBIA, Robert Rogers has spent his career stewarding one of Columbia's most enduring family businesses. On December 13, he'll share that experience with the next generation.
Columbia State Community College announced this week that Rogers will deliver the commencement address to the graduating class at 9 a.m. in the Webster Athletic Center gymnasium on Hampshire Pike. The ceremony will be streamed live for remote viewing at www.ColumbiaState.edu/Graduation.
Rogers attended Columbia State before transferring to Middle Tennessee State University, where he graduated cum laude in 2003 with a degree in business administration and marketing. After college, he joined Parks Motor Sales, the dealership his grandfather founded. He rose through the ranks to manage each department before becoming general manager in 2008, and now serves as dealer principal, continuing the business's seven-decade legacy in the community.
Beyond the showroom, Rogers has built a track record of service. He sits on the Columbia State Community College Foundation Board, served as chairman of the Frontier District of the Boy Scouts of America, earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and maintains active membership in the Columbia Kiwanis Club. He's also part of Mental Mules, a group dedicated to raising funds for local charities through an annual 24-hour walk. The effort has generated over $100,000 for local causes to date.
Guests should plan to arrive by 8 a.m., as seating in the Webster Athletic Center is limited. Overflow seating will be available in the Ledbetter Auditorium. For full details on parking, prohibited items, and special seating, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/Graduation.