DoDEA

Russ Roberts

ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA — May 7, 2008 — The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) has named Russ Roberts as the new Chief of Logistics for the organization. In his new position, Roberts will be responsible for all logistics infrastructure which includes securing and managing facilities, student transportation, material, and inter-service support resources. He will also work to ensure safe, secure, and well-managed environments that focus on student achievement.

"Russ was chosen because of his outstanding leadership skills and his ability to look at big picture and make decisions that are best for all of the organization," said Kevin Kelly, Associate Director for Financial and Business Operations for DoDEA.

Prior to his selection as Logistics Chief, Roberts was the Chief of Facilities for DoDEA with oversight of DoDEA's geographic area of over 18 million square feet scattered throughout thirteen countries, two US territories and numerous locations within the continental United States. He was responsible for all aspects of facility management, ranging from recurring maintenance and hazardous material abatement to design/construction of major renovation and new schools.

"There's no question that I have some challenges ahead," said Roberts. "We have an important mission-to provide logistical support for teachers and students around the world. I look forward to working with the area office staff to bring consistency and efficiency to what we do."

After graduating with an engineering degree from Texas A&M University in 1985, Mr. Roberts' began his Federal Government career as a construction project manager with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Fort Hood, Texas. He gained over five years of field experience in multi-million dollar construction projects to include several school facilities.

In early 1991, Mr. Roberts accepted his first position with DoDEA as the Chief of the Facilities Branch for Department of Defense Schools Atlantic just outside of London, England.

For the next thirteen years, teaming with experienced school administrators and district superintendents, he served as an engineer working throughout Europe. His expertise was in local area network technology, total maintenance contracting, hazardous material management, space utilization planning and budgeting for major construction efforts.

Roberts said he is excited about the work ahead. "The reward of working with a small agency such as DoDEA is that you can see results," said Roberts. "We make a difference in the lives of children. On a daily basis, we help teachers create learning environments in our schools that help children succeed."

DoDEA plans, directs, coordinates, and manages the education programs for Department of Defense dependents who would otherwise not have access to a high-quality public education. DoDEA consists of the Department of Defense Dependents Schools located overseas, and the Department of Defense Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools located in the United States and its territories and possessions. DoDEA provides education to eligible DoD military and civilian dependents from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.