News
2007
August 02, 2007 -
A Leader's Legacy
Rob Draper, Director of the National Scenic Byways Program, officially retired on July 27. His passion for byways will be missed.
Those of you who have been “on the road” with byways for awhile might best remember Rob by his New Year’s messages published in the January issue of Vistas. In his January 2007 New Year’s message, Rob writes about his thoughts and reflections on the Program. Specifically, Rob mentions:
“We continue to use significance of the resources, continuity of the experience, and community support and involvement as the essential ingredients for national designation. I can’t take credit for these points. They’re grounded in the Interim Guidance’s nomination and designation criteria.”
While Rob is correct in not taking credit for writing the Interim Guidance, he can take credit for ensuring that the nominations and grants processes reflected those messages. Rob’s leadership in the last nine years for the National Scenic Byway Program has ensured that byway projects and programming have reflected the significance of the intrinsic qualities, the expectations and experience of the traveler and the support of the community. Rob recognized the value and strength a strong byway organization brings to the success of the entire Program. He recognized the importance of the visitor - their expectations, their experiences and how that shapes a successful byway. And he valued the stories - from the stories on the byways to stories of success.
Rob deserves a hearty thanks for his leadership in shaping the National Scenic Byways Program. Best wishes in your retirement!
Michelle Johnson
Director