Rob DeBlois At Cranwell
Robert DeBlois attended Cranwell from
1968-1972. In doing so, he continued a tradition in his
family that was begun by his father, Arthur DeBlois 45,
uncles Bob50 and Charlie 52, and brothers Art 68, John
71, and Mark 74.
Rob had a pretty normal experience at
Cranwell. He played football, hockey, and lacrosse where
he worked hard, but was not regarded as a star. He also
served on the Key Society, and was no stranger to an
occasional suspension not unusual for students in the late
60s and early 70s.
From College to Inner City Youth
After graduation from Cranwell, Rob
attended the University of New Hampshire and majored in
education and English. During his junior year, in the spring
of 75, Rob broke his neck while diving into a river in
Durham, New Hampshire. While not the brightest thing he ever
did, this was certainly the most dramatic. With the help of
family and friends, Rob remained in school and graduated in
December of 76. He began teaching and eventually earned two
master degrees from Brown University and Rhode Island
College.
During this time, Rob began working with
inner-city youth in Providence. He could not help but
realize the tremendous challenges and lack of opportunity
that faced these students. At this time, he set upon efforts
that would help these young people have some of the
tremendous advantages and opportunities which he had
experienced all his life and usually took for granted.
