Bob is an educator, humanist, problem solver. He obtained his M.A. in English
Language and Literature /Letters from New York University, followed by master's
degree in education at Queens College in the administration and supervisory
program.
As an educator, Bob saw the need for getting students from diverse cultural and
ethnic backgrounds under a big common tent, to minimize the violence that was a
big challenge in the New York City public schools in the 70s.
Bob created the Council for Unity (CFU) in 1975, which grew from six gang
leaders to a national award-winning movement in New York and beyond. As
president of CFU since September 1975—45 years and counting—he developed
curriculum around CFU's 4 Pillars: Family, Unity, Self-Esteem & Empowerment.
Bob developed a holistic strategy to engage schools, community, law enforcement,
and correctional facilities into a single network to prevent crime and
discrimination.
The Interfaith Institute of Long Island has also benefitted from its interaction with
the CFU, to quote Bob directly: "The Interfaith Institute's relationship with
Council for Unity has now expanded your reach into the realm of education. The
institute's sponsorship of a tour of your facility for our Westbury Middle School
chapter had a far-reaching impact not only on our CFU members, but faculty as
well. Many attended the visit with preconceived and erroneous conceptions about
Islam and left with a new appreciation of one of the world’s great religions. And
from that event, the Interfaith Institute provided ministers and imams to bless our
congregation at our 44th anniversary induction with over 1,000 youngsters from
over 130 different cultures witnessing the faith-based community celebrating the
same unity and tolerance that is part of our mission. The impact on our kids was
awe-inspiring and long-lasting, as this had never occurred at any of our events
before."
IFI welcomes Bob to its advisory board and together help fulfill Bob's goal:
"Through our partnership we have both extended our reach, and it is my fervent
prayer that once this pandemic is under control that we will continue to collaborate
to bring tolerance, mutual respect and love to a divided world."