Name: Robert J. Siffrin
Preferred nickname: Bob
Years in Rotary: I joined Warren Rotary in 1987 and then joined Youngstown in 1992 (28 years).
Resident of: Youngstown
Hometown: Massillon
How long have you lived here? 41 years
What brought you here, or kept you here? Priesthood ordination and assignments at Ursuline High School, John F. Kennedy High School and then on the staff of the Bishop here in the [Catholic Diocese of Youngstown] Chancery.
Education: Bachelor’s degrees in Philosophy and English, Masters Degrees in Scripture Study, Religious Education and Administration.
Occupation: Roman Catholic priest (ordained in 1979); administrator, Diocese of Youngstown; administrator, St. Edward Parish, Youngstown.
Who is in your family circle? I have two younger sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your time? I enjoy photography, theater, symphony, traveling, and walking.
Why did you join Rotary? My first experience of Rotary in Warren was the quality of the student exchange. Once I became a Rotarian I was impressed by the commitment to service, the friendships that developed and the wonderful project of Polio Plus.
Why do you remain a Rotarian? The commitment to service above self, concern for the well-being of our community and concern for the education and formation of the youth of our community.
Which Rotary project resonates with you and your understanding of community needs? Commitment to improved education, literacy, Polio Plus, etc.
What does Rotary’s “Service Above Self” motto mean to you? The commitment to others in our community, nation and world makes us as Rotarians more knowledgeable and more thankful for the gifts we have.
Which type of Rotary socials do you prefer -- black tie affairs or casual attire? Either.
A Rotary tradition is to have sing-alongs during meetings. Would you ever lead us in a song? Only if you want to do penance.
What’s a story of yours that you don’t get to tell often enough? I have not spoken often enough about the value and benefit of friendships in Rotary and the true picture of our community that a person comes to know when involved in Rotary.