We are re-introducing profiles of University Outreach and Engagement faculty and staff as an opportunity to get to know our colleagues a little better. Say hello to Charles Robinson, special initiatives, University Outreach and Engagement and the College of Liberal Arts.

How long have you worked with University Outreach and Engagement?  Since 2014.

What’s the best part of the work you’re doing?  Interacting and collaborating with colleagues and communities all across our state—and producing real and valuable results on their behalf.

What work accomplishment are you most proud of?  I can look back on many things and feel proud for what I’ve been able to contribute. But the single most important one to me has been the creation and growth of The CO•, the group behind The Corvallis Maker Fair and a number of related events that focus on building community and resources around hands-on learning. The CO• began as a grassroots partnership between a few units on campus, including the College of Liberal Arts, the Division of University Outreach and Engagement, and the Valley Library. It now includes many OSU and community groups and focuses on offering a 2-day series of maker activities on campus each spring and is moving into new areas of research and statewide partnership.

How should success be measured? Good stories!

If you could learn the answer to one question about your future, what would the question be? What’s next?

What smell brings back good memories? Coffee. Always.

What is your favorite season? Autumn.

If you could call up anyone in the world and have a one-hour conversation, who would you call? My grandfathers. I never met either of them, but as I grow nearer them in age, I think I just might be able now to truly understand some of the things they would have to say.

What song always puts you in a good mood?  Institutionalized by the punk band, Suicidal Tendencies.

Do you engage in social media? If yes, what’s your favorite social media platform (for work and/or play)? Reluctantly and awkwardly. For work – Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter (#osuspark #TheCOCorvallis). For play (and proud parent moments) – Facebook.

What are the three best apps on your phone? Dropbox, Evernote and Google Photos.

Have you traveled to any different countries? Not nearly enough! Which ones? Not nearly enough! Mexico, Canada, Netherlands, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, and Denmark.

Where is the most awe inspiring place you have been?  An ATM machine on the outskirts of Salem. Yes, I’m being cryptic – sorry, this one’s just for me – but you asked!