Welcome to Episode 131 of The Darlington Podcast!
In this special episode, listen to Dr. Bob Hortman ('72) give his address as the recipient of the 2023 Distinguished Alumnus Award on Oct. 6. Hortman reflects on his life and Darlington experience and offers words of wisdom for Upper School students as they navigate their own journeys.
Hortman's Darlington journey began as a day student in middle school and he went on to serve on the Honor Council, sing in Glee Club, and play on the championship soccer teams. After Darlington, he graduated from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Medical College of Georgia. His career as a dentist was marked by professionalism and a deep sense of care for his patients.
A proud member of the Class of 1972, Hortman’s dedication to Darlington is evident through his past role as a trustee and board chair, and now as Life Trustee. He has been an active participant in Career Day presentations and has served on the Alumni Council and as Athletic Booster Club president. His contributions to The Darlington Fund Board Leadership, Heritage Society, and Strategic Planning Committee further demonstrate his commitment to shaping the future of the school.
Outside the educational sphere, Hortman’s influence extends into various aspects of community life, including First Baptist Church, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Georgia, the Exchange Club of Rome, the Family Resource Center, Habitat for Humanity, Coosa Valley Fair, the United Way of Rome, and the Floyd County Baptist Association's Free Dental Clinic. In 2013, he was recognized with the Heart of the Community Award for his outstanding service in Rome and Floyd County.
The Darlington Podcast is a collaboration between the communication and advancement teams, and is hosted by various members of the school community. Episodes are released each Thursday morning and available on most podcast platforms (search for The Darlington Podcast in your podcast player). Once new episodes are posted, you'll also be able to find them at www.darlingtonschool.org/podcast. Please subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts so that you'll get the latest episode each week!
The Darlington Podcast intro music was written and performed by Elliot Luitwieler ('22) and Kathryn Davidson ('22). Justin Bruce, Upper School learning specialist, lends his voice, and editing and production is handled by Maddie Chastain, content manager.
If you have ideas for future episodes or have any questions about The Darlington Podcast, please email communications@darlingtonschool.org.
