Name:
John S. Roberts, Jr.
Birthdate:
02/16/1976
Where were you born?
Gainesville
What are your community activities? (church or faith-based involvement, local, regional and national professional organizations, non-profits, etc)
North Central Baptist Church: Member, Co-AWANA Commander (my wife is the other)
Child Advocacy Center: Treasurer
Rotary Club of Greater Gainesville: Foundation Chair; Bequest Society Member
Christ’s Starfish Foundation
Chamber member
List any awards you have won for community service:
None, but was nominated for the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2012, and the Spirit of Gainesville Award in 2013.
Also have been recognized within the organizations I serve for the support I have given and the involvement I have.
What is your definition of success?
I would have to go with the late John Wooden “Success is peace of mind which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.” Also known as taking the talent God gave you and doing your best with it.
What is your greatest professional accomplishment?
Honor Graduate at the 2013 Florida School of Banking
How do you exemplify the spirit of a Forty Under 40 professional?
I strive to conduct myself with honesty and integrity in everything I do.
Businessperson who has most inspired you:
I really cannot name just one. I have meet and dealt with many great local business men and women who were very inspiring. We are blessed to live in such a great community.
Best advise ever received:
Work hard every day that’s what they pay you to do. – My grandfather W.E. Roberts
Greatest professional challenge:
The Great Recession
First job:
Working on my families tobacco farm
What color crayon would you be? Why?
Blue. It’s my favorite color.
Favorite after-work drink:
Diet Dr. Pepper
If I had a magic wand, I’d:
Take the family to Madison, Mississippi and spend a little time with my sister and her family.
What is your favorite Gadget?
Besides an iPhone I really do not have a lot of gadgets, but my favorite toy is my 1986 CJ7 Jeep.
How long have you been in Gainesville?
I have lived in Gainesville for 10 years, but I grew up in Lake Butler, Florida so Gainesville was “town”. hahaha
What do you love most about Gainesville/Alachua County?
It’s big enough to have plenty to do, but small enough to enjoy life. Oh and of course Gator Athletics!
Three things people would be surprised to know about you:
I do not hunt.
I have been published twice. (Nothing big of course)
I’m my Daughter’s favorite singer. (I can’t sing)
Advice you would give a younger you:
Listen to your Father and Mother they really do know what they’re talking about.