The San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce has named Bob Wacker its Citizen of the Year for 2008 for his outstanding contributions to the community.
Wacker, a financial planner and president of R.E. Wacker Associates Inc., has played a key role in numerous local nonprofits and organizations by donating his time to help them secure their financial future and continue to serve the community's needs.
He sits on the boards of both the Cuesta College Foundation and the Cal Poly Foundation, where he is vice chair. He chairs the investment committees at both institutions. He is also on the boards of the SLO Wellness Community and the SLO Estate Planning Council.
"It's not the first time recently I've had to say I didn't see that coming," a teary but smiling Wacker said after being surprised with the award at the Chamber's Annual Dinner Jan. 24. Wacker remarked that he and his family feel lucky to be a part of the SLO community.
He was chairman of the Chamber board in 2005 and president of the San Luis Obispo Rotary Club in 2003-2004, where he focused his efforts on developing youth programs.
And his great sense of humor and quick wit have made him a popular choice to emcee events when organizations are looking to raise money.
"He is the consummate professional, an incredibly talented business executive and a passionate contributor to the success of the Cal Poly Foundation," said Sandra Ogren, Cal Poly's vice president for university advancement. "Not being a Cal Poly alumnus, his motivations are pure: help the students, help the faculty, help the university and help the community."
Though the Citizen of the Year award recognizes community contribution, Wacker is well regarded professionally as well. Several publications including Worth magazine have repeatedly named him among the nation's top financial advisors. He also has served on the board of directors of the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors, with terms as president and chairman of the board, and on the board of governors of the profession's regulatory organization, the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards.
"He is a wonderful human being," said Bill Thoma of Thoma Electric, himself a past Citizen of the Year winner. "He is passionate and compassionate about everything he does. He always makes you feel important and you never leave without a laugh. I feel blessed to call him a friend."
Wacker was presented the award by last year's winner, Rob Rossi.
Winners are chosen from nominations from the community, vetted by a Chamber committee and voted on the Chamber board. Not even members of the committee or chamber board know the winner until the award is presented.
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