Robert Norris

NORRIS

ROBERT NORRIS "Bob"

Robert "Bob" Norris died on November 5, 2022 in the home he loved in Cabin John, Maryland. Born and raised in Livingston, New Jersey, he attended undergraduate studies at Baldwin-Wallace College before moving on to University of Minnesota where he earned a master's degree in history. Bob's first teaching job was at Augustana College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Three years later he moved to Washington, DC, and enrolled in a PhD program at American University, completing his studies in 1985.



During his 22 year tenure at American University Bob's career advanced from Academic Counselor in the College of Arts & Sciences to Vice Provost, University Programs. He met his wife Lisa there in May 1985. They were married on campus in Kay Spiritual Life Center three years later. While in academic administration, Bob occasionally returned to the classroom and what he enjoyed most — teaching. In 1997 he became Executive Director of Tuition Exchange (TE), Washington, DC. Under his leadership membership grew exponentially. He retired in 2009 as President of TE.



Bob was a loving son, brother, husband, father, uncle, and kind neighbor to all. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Lisa Gappa-Norris, son Joseph Norris of Fargo, North Dakota, sister Lynne Herchenroether of Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, sister Nancy (Lawrence) Howard of Chocowinity, North Carolina, and their children and families. Bob loved Cabin John and the eclectic residents it attracted, along with the spirit of community that continues to thrive there. He was especially fond of mornings at the bus stop with neighborhood families, and camping adventures with his son's Cub Scout Troop. Bob believed in civility and civic responsibility. He volunteered for various Cabin John events over the years, from picking up items for the annual Crab Feast, to driving those in need to medical appointments as part of the Neighbor-to-Neighbor program. He served as an election judge closer for many years after retiring, returning home well after midnight as part of a bipartisan team responsible for securely delivering ballots to a central collection point.



Contributions in Bob's memory may be made to the general scholarship fund at American University, Washington, DC (giving.American.edu [giving.american.edu]), or the Dollars for Scholars Program at Central Valley School, Buxton, North Dakota (centralvalley.dollarsforscholars.org [centralvalley.dollarsforscholars.org]), supporting graduating seniors pursuing degrees in science, education or history. A private gathering to celebrate Bob's life is planned for late May.