Commencement Speaker: Rob Robertson

From the football field to the financial frontlines, Rob Robertson has built a career defined by perseverance and purpose. A former NFL fullback for the Baltimore Ravens, Robertson brings more than 24 years of experience in the financial services industry, specializing in home lending and market expansion. 

He has held senior leadership roles at PNC Bank, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, where he is known for building high-performing teams and cultivating cultures of accountability and care. Robertson currently serves as senior vice president and head of strategic sales at First Citizens Bank in Raleigh, North Carolina. He defines his leadership mantra using the acronym C.P.R. (Culture, People, Relationships), emphasizing the importance of embodying a culture of caring. 

Beyond his professional success, Robertson’s passion for service runs deep. As president of the D.C. Chapter of the National Football Players Association (NFLPA), he led the chapter to earn Chapter of the Year honors in 2023. He currently serves as chairman of the NFLPA Former Player Advisory Board and sits on the boards of MENTOR and Big Brothers Big Sisters National Capital Area, mentoring youth and strengthening communities. 

Celebrating its one-year anniversary, Robertson launched “Persevering Through Purpose,” a memoir reflecting on overcoming loss and adversity, offering inspiration to anyone facing challenges in their own life. His journey exemplifies perseverance and purpose-driven leadership.   

Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Robertson lives in northern Virginia with his wife, Nneka, and their children, Bryson and Boston Olivia. He credits his grandmother, affectionately known as Madear, for instilling the values of faith, perseverance and service that continue to guide his life and leadership.