Keith's Former Probation Officer
"When I first met Keith, he was a wayward young man; out of control, driving recklessly under the influence and using drugs and wreaking havoc in his family and community. He seemed lost and unwilling to make anything out of his life, and his grades were suffering, and his behavior was illegal and immoral. He came into the juvenile justice system at a young age, but after a few years began seeking treatment and support in the community, he quickly began to change and underwent a radical transformation for the better.
I've never seen anyone change in such a dramatic way in my life, and I have had exposures to hundreds of young people and adults in my personal and professional life. Keith went from the bottom of the bottom on to become a young man of outrageous commitment. His passion for this new way of life and for helping others is unparalleled.
It has been my honor and privilege to watch him grow and change, help others and carry the message of hope to many young people and adults over the years. He is s a true example of what young people can do to make the world a better place to live in spite of their past hardships and the many negative influences and forces in the world. By overcoming those obstacles and odds, Keith Robinson is a living testimony and witness to all individuals, young and old alike.
Seeing the powerful change that Keith has made...it would be difficult for anyone to say I can't change or avoid alcohol and other drugs. As the old adage says, “the lie is dead because of the powerful example of people like Keith Robinson. Any school or community that allowed Keith Robinson time to tell his story to their parents and young people would never regret it."
Mark Funkhouser | Probation Officer, Posey County Superior Court | Mt. Vernon, IN
Keith's Former High School Principal
"My relationship with Keith dates back thirteen years, when I was Keith's Assistant Principal. During this time, we had a difficult relationship because I saw qualities in Keith that he did not think he possessed.
I want to turn the clock back a few years to a time when Keith was headed in the wrong direction. I was at the point of suspending him from school but gave him one more chance to prove me wrong; once again, however, he let me down... It was then that Keith realized he needed a different approach to his life. Wow! He accepted the responsibility of making those changes and what resulted is an amazing success story.
Of all the students and relationships I have experienced over the past thirty years, I admire and respect my association with Keith more than any. It's difficult enough to be a teenager, but to be able to look deep inside, perceive that a change is needed, and then come up with the courage to make it happen, leaves me speechless.
Keith is a conscientious, highly motivated individual who has a positive attitude toward life and a passion to share his message with others. He is eager to challenge any obstacle placed before him and has a mature sense of priorities. The path his life has taken and the place where he is now, is proof of his dedication to reach his greatest potential.
During our last conversation I sensed an enthusiastic dedication to the leadership in his chosen profession. He demonstrates an admirable loyalty and passion in his relationships and with his mentors. There is not enough time for me to express all my thoughts on how proud I am of Keith and how much I cherish his friendship. When we are through with our "days on the job" all we have left are the friendships we have formed. I am fortunate because I have built many relationships with students, staff, and parents, but not one of them makes me as proud as my friendship with Keith Robinson."
Stephen G. Fisher | Superintendent of Schools | Clarksville Community School Corporation