Casey M. Roberts
35, Executive Director of New Horizons Regional Education Centers, Hampton
Business community involvement:
Greater Peninsula Workforce Board, Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets Alumni Board, Hampton Roads Workforce Council Talent Alignment Steering Committee, LEAD Hampton Roads (Class of 2013), Top 40 Under 40 (2017)
Civic contributions:
200+ Men Inc., School Reform Initiative Inc., New Life Church Member
Something that sets you apart from the crowd?
A servant heart, drive and passion. I believe everything in life (success, failure and inaction) hinges on leadership. Leadership matters today more than ever. My greatest desire is to create more leaders. My philosophy can be summed up in my alma mater’s (Virginia Tech) motto “Ut Prosim”—That I May Serve.
Something or someone who keeps you motivated?
My family and my heritage. I have a beautiful wife, Renelle, a spunky daughter, Daphney, and a curious son, Casey Jr. I am a fifth-generation educator and proud to stand on the shoulders of those who have come before me to make a difference.
Most important aspect you look for in a workplace?
I like organizations that are on the cutting edge and thrive in an environment of innovation. I also enjoy teams that embrace the idea of “change” as an opportunity to do something great!
What would you be doing if you weren’t in your current position?
Hands down, a United States Air Force fighter pilot! Flying has always been a dream of mine.
What new idea or development are you most excited about in Coastal Virginia right now?
I am very excited about the establishment of the Southeastern Virginia Regional Workforce Collaborative between the Greater Peninsula Workforce Board and the Hampton Roads Workforce Council. This is a huge first step in establishing a regional workforce identity. Through this collaboration, increased interagency communication, availability of services/training and opportunities for growth will strengthen the Hampton Roads region and establish this area as an innovation corridor with a talent-rich foundation on the East Coast. This is regionalism at its best!
What do you think is Coastal Virginia’s biggest challenge?
Coastal Virginia is a nexus of culture, heritage, diversity, innovation and talent. The greatest challenge for our region is “will.” As a region, we must learn to develop and put into action solutions not only for one locality but solutions that transcend geographic location and political convenience. This can only occur with strategic leadership, fresh ideas about regionalism and a unified vision for Hampton Roads.
Favorite place in Coastal Virginia to go on the weekends?
During spring and summer, I love to spend time at the beach with my family. Our weekend beach spot is Sandbridge. I love the location and the fun and rejuvenating vibe that Sandbridge embodies.
From his nomination:
“Casey is passionate about the education and welfare of the youth of our region and demonstrates it in both words and actions. Casey is a highly motivated, dedicated and visionary educator with a passion for empowering teachers and leading teams to excellence. He is a change agent who is results-oriented and possesses strong decision-making skills.”
—James Gray, personal and professional colleague
