Robert W. Scott, American farmer and politician, 67th Governor of North Carolina (b. 1929)

Robert Walter "Bob" Scott (June 13, 1929 – January 23, 2009) was a prominent American politician and agriculturalist who left an indelible mark on North Carolina's public landscape. Serving as the 67th Governor of North Carolina from 1969 to 1973, Scott's tenure was characterized by a deep commitment to education, particularly the expansion of the state's community college system, and a steadfast advocacy for the state's rural and agricultural communities. His roots were firmly planted in Haw River, North Carolina, where he was both born and passed away, embodying a lifelong connection to his home state.

Scott’s political lineage was remarkably distinguished, positioning him as a figure with public service ingrained in his very heritage. He was the son of W. Kerr Scott, a transformative Governor of North Carolina who served from 1949 to 1953, known for his "Go Forward" program that vastly improved rural roads and electrification across the state. This made Bob Scott one of the rare instances of a father and son both serving as Governor in North Carolina's history. Furthermore, his family's tradition of legislative service extended to his grandfather and a paternal uncle, both of whom served as state legislators. Despite this profound political heritage, Scott maintained a profound connection to the land, identifying primarily as a dedicated dairy farmer throughout much of his life. This background as a dairy farmer provided him with a unique, grounded perspective that informed his policy decisions and resonated deeply with the state's agrarian population.

Before assuming the governorship, Bob Scott honed his political and administrative skills by serving as North Carolina's Lieutenant Governor from 1965 to 1969. In this capacity, he gained crucial experience in state governance, preparing him for the challenges and responsibilities of the state's highest office. His term as Governor, as a Democrat, focused on several key areas. Education remained a cornerstone, with significant efforts directed towards making higher education more accessible through the continued development and support of the North Carolina Community College System, a network vital for vocational training and workforce development. He also championed initiatives to support North Carolina's agricultural sector and promote the economic vitality of its rural areas, reflecting his personal background and understanding of these communities' needs. Following his governorship, Scott continued his impactful career in public service and education, notably serving as the President of the North Carolina Community College System from 1983 to 1995. In this role, he further solidified his legacy as a champion for accessible and quality education for all North Carolinians, continuing to shape the educational landscape long after leaving the Governor's Mansion.

Bob Scott's life concluded on January 23, 2009, in his beloved Haw River, North Carolina. His contributions as a politician, dairy farmer, and educational leader are remembered as vital chapters in North Carolina's modern history, marked by a steadfast commitment to his constituents and the advancement of his home state.

Frequently Asked Questions About Governor Bob Scott

Who was Robert Walter "Bob" Scott?

Robert Walter "Bob" Scott was an American politician and dairy farmer who served as the 67th Governor of North Carolina from 1969 to 1973. He was also the son of former Governor W. Kerr Scott.

When did Bob Scott serve as Governor of North Carolina?

He served a single term as Governor of North Carolina from 1969 to 1973, having previously served as Lieutenant Governor from 1965 to 1969.

What were Bob Scott's key achievements as Governor?

Key achievements during his governorship included the significant expansion and strengthening of the North Carolina Community College System, aimed at making higher education and vocational training more accessible across the state. He also remained a strong advocate for agriculture and rural development, reflecting his background as a dairy farmer.

What was Bob Scott's connection to Haw River, North Carolina?

Haw River, North Carolina, was Bob Scott's hometown; he was both born there on June 13, 1929, and passed away there on January 23, 2009. His roots in the community were deep, influencing his understanding of rural North Carolina.

How was Bob Scott connected to other North Carolina politicians?

Bob Scott came from a prominent political family. His father, W. Kerr Scott, also served as Governor of North Carolina (1949-1953), making them one of the few father-son duos to hold the state's highest office. Additionally, his grandfather and a paternal uncle were state legislators, establishing a deep family legacy in North Carolina politics.