On Veterans Day, Crummer celebrates the enduring connection between service, leadership, and purpose

On Veterans Day, the Crummer Graduate School of Business joins the Rollins College community in honoring the extraordinary men and women who have served our nation. Their courage, humility, and dedication to others reflect a kind of leadership that transcends ranks and titles—the same spirit at the heart of the Crummer mission.

Among them is Dr. Robert “Navy Bob” Roncska ’22DBA, a retired U.S. Navy veteran whose life and work continue to inspire. After decades of distinguished military service—including carrying the nation’s nuclear codes—Dr. Roncska has dedicated his career to redefining leadership through empathy, trust, and purpose.

Earlier this year, Dr. Roncska presented his “Leading with Love” leadership model at the 2025 International Edison Awards, alongside innovators from Google [X] and Holland LP. Drawing on both military and executive experience, his message was simple yet transformative:

The heart of innovation isn’t technology—it’s people. If we want people to innovate, we must start by valuing them.

Dr. Roncska’s philosophy echoes Rollins’ timeless motto, “Life is for service.” Like generations of Rollins graduates—including Fred Rogers ’51—he reminds us that leadership is not defined by authority, but by how we serve, uplift, and connect with others.

As Rollins College President Brooke Barnett wrote in her Veterans Day message:

To every veteran and active service member: your service matters, your sacrifice is not forgotten, and our freedom stands as a testament to your valor.

Crummer’s commitment to cultivating purpose-driven, human-centered leaders continues in that same spirit, developing individuals who lead with empathy, vision, and integrity.

This Veterans Day, we honor those who serve, and those who teach us that true leadership begins with service.

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