Robert (Bob) Fox Named 2026 LCC Alumnus of the Year
Lower Columbia College (LCC) and the Lower Columbia College Foundation (LCCF) are pleased to announce the selection of Robert (Bob) Fox as the 2026 LCC Alumnus of the Year. The Alumnus of the Year award recognizes LCC alumni who have made significant contributions to the community and whose accomplishments, relationships, and careers exemplify LCC's legacy of excellence.
Bob has deep roots in the local community. After graduating from R.A. Long High School in 1957 and serving three years in the U.S. Navy, he returned home to balance early-morning shifts at a Weyerhaeuser Co. sawmill with coursework at Lower Columbia Junior College, as it was known when he attended from 1960 to 1963. Bob also played for the Red Devils on the 1963 Men’s Basketball team.
His experiences at LCC laid the groundwork for a rich career in education. Fox earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Central Washington University and a master’s degree from Portland State University. Returning to Longview, he spent over 30 years as a dedicated Special Education teacher at R.A. Long High School, pioneering advances in local special education programs and helping establish the Progress Center to provide work training for individuals with special needs.
Beyond the classroom, Bob coached JV softball at R.A. Long High School for a season, and spent 28 summers operating a salmon charter fishing boat in Ilwaco alongside his late wife, Carol, and their four children, Vicky, Jeff, David, and Debbie.
The Fox family's connection to LCC runs deep. All four children attended LCC along with two nephews. His late wife, Carol, and Bob both taught evening adult education classes at the college, and their four children all attended LCC. Over the years, Bob also taught English as a Second Language (ESL), Citizenship, Adult Basic Education, and coursework for the kids at the Toutle River Boys Ranch.
“LCC didn't just serve my entire family and two nephews; it changed my personal trajectory,” shares Bob. “I wasn’t a standout student, but LCC gave me the foundation for a lifetime career in education, helping me truly understand the impact a teacher can make.”
Today, Fox remains one of LCC Athletics' most enthusiastic champions. A 25-year-long-standing member of the Red Devil Booster Club, Bob’s support for LCC extends to the Athletic Excellence Fund, LCC Women’s Volleyball Program, and the College Success Fund for areas of greatest need. He has also named the college as a beneficiary in his estate plans.
LCC Foundation expresses its profound gratitude to Bob Fox for his visionary leadership, steadfast advocacy for education, and enduring legacy of generosity.
“LCC is proud to recognize long-time Longview resident, former educator, and LCC alumnus Robert (Bob) Fox for his exceptional dedication, lifelong community service, and generous philanthropic contributions to the college. His longstanding support in our community and at LCC truly makes a difference,” noted LCC Interim President Dr. Kristen Finnel.
Bob Fox will be honored at this year’s Lifetime Donor Wall Celebration on November 12, 2026.
For more information about the LCC Foundation, LCC Alumni, or to join the LCC Foundation Alumni Association, visit lowercolumbia.edu/foundation.