Name: Anthony Robinson (Tony)
Graduation Year: 1994
Major: History and a Minor in Social Science
Current Position: Superintendent of the Sikeston R-6 School District
City and State: Sikeston, Missouri
Tell us about your career and what you do now.
Currently, I am the Superintendent of the Sikeston R-6 School District. I have been an educator for over 26 years. After graduating from Evangel, I served as a graduate assistant at Missouri Western State University and got a Master’s Degree in Education Leadership from Northwest Missouri State University. I taught Social Studies at the high school level for 4 years before getting into administration. I was a middle school and high school administrator for fourteen years before entering Central Office positions and ultimately becoming a superintendent in 2019. While serving as a high school administrator, I earned my doctorate degree.
What is your favorite memory from Evangel?
I enjoyed my time at Evangel immensely and made some great friends and memories. My favorite memories come from playing football for Evangel, hanging with friends in the dorm and looking forward to pasta day at the Joust.
I appreciate the relationships I had with my professors. Dr. Holsinger and Ms. Quigley really challenged and pushed me as a student.
How did Evangel help you identify/develop your calling?
Evangel allowed me to see that I could serve and help others as a teacher and coach. I enjoyed being a part of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, speaking at local high school meetings and participating in overnight FCA activities. I grew in my faith at Evangel and served as an RA. These different experiences moved me outside of my comfort zone and required me to grow as a person. After graduating, I continued my work with FCA, sponsored Fellowship of Christian Athletes as a teacher and coach and served in my church.
How did your experience at Evangel prepare you for life after graduation?
At Evangel, I had some great professors who held me to high standards and pushed me. Dr. Holsinger, Ms. Quigley and Dr. Sanders played a huge role in my education. I carried the experiences I gained in leadership through FCA and football into to my career. I took my academic experiences and passed those on to my students and staff. I learned to keep learning and improving, have high standards for my students and staff and give people an opportunity to grow and improve.
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
I would advise students going into the workforce to be confident in who you are as a person. The workplace needs men and women of integrity, honesty, character and faith. Participate in activities, clubs and events that challenge you to grow as a leader, person and student. Maintain high standards for yourself and be open to receive and give honest feedback. Do not shy away from criticism from others. Hard work still matters and work ethic is important. Always be prepared to put in extra work. Enjoy your time at Evangel and be open to new learning and experiences.
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from Evangel?
Hiring the right people is so important. I look for purpose-driven people who are interested in serving and transforming the lives of others. I look for people who are positive, problem solvers, innovative, caring, and willing to learn.