Robert Meisner
Robert Meisner, a well-respected cook in Dining Services, died as a result of a tragic accident on Sunday, March 7, 2021. He was 65.
Co-workers described Robb, who joined Skidmore in 2011, as a committed colleague, who cared deeply for others and enjoyed working with students.
“Robb was always passionate about being a great team member. He always gave 100% and was very supportive of his co-workers and especially students,” said Senior Cook Ben Niese. “His No. 1 rule in life was ‘just be nice.’ He loved Saratoga, the people and the Skidmore community.”
Students recalled the happiness that he brought to his job every day.
“Chef Robb was known throughout the Skidmore community for his dedication to students, both in serving us food with love and bringing many of us joy as a co-worker,” said Abby Ciccarone ’22. “We will remember him for putting us first and making us smile.”
Born Oct. 11, 1955, in Norwood, Massachusetts, Robb later moved to Westchester County, where he graduated from Rye High School. He played lacrosse while pursuing his undergraduate degree at SUNY Cobleskill and completed a master’s degree in landscape design and land planning at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California.
After running his own greenhouse and landscaping business, Robb decided to pursue another passion — cooking — and joined Skidmore’s Dining Services team.
“Robb always had a positive attitude and was always eager to learn and became a very good cook at Skidmore,” said Executive Chef Jim Rose, recalling that Robb was part of a Skidmore team that won a medal at an American Culinary Federation competition in 2013.
An avid golfer and horse racing fan, Robb had already secured a season pass for the 2021 season at Saratoga Race Course.
Robb is survived by his brother Tom of Aiken, South Carolina, and sister Cece (Harry) Peterson of Dutchess County.