Citizen of the Years: Bobbe Burke

Bobbe Burke has been recognized as Oxford Citizen of the Years for her many years of volunteer work for several organizations in Oxford, including as coordinator of the Kiwanis Food Drive on behalf of Talawanda Oxford Pantry & Social Services (TOPSS).

Burke was nominated by Sherry Martin, Executive Director of TOPSS, and Maggie Lubbers, TOPSS Pantry Coordinator. TOPSS provides Oxford area residents with access to a pantry, emergency assistance, and other social services. The nominating letter highlighted Burke’s “fabulous job” as volunteer coordinator of the Kiwanis Food Drive for several years. For the food drive, the Kiwanis Club works with TOPSS, schools, local clubs and community groups to fight hunger in Oxford.

Martin wrote that Burke’s work has been key to the food drive’s success. “Bobbe manages every detail of this project with precision and care, ensuring that everyone involved knows their role and that no part of the plan is overlooked. Thanks to her tireless work, this year's food drive exceeded its fundraising goal by over $9,000.”

Burke told the Oxford Free Press why she volunteers so much time bell ringing in December for food donations for TOPSS as well as for the Salvation Army. “When you get close to Christmas Day, those days get harder to fill in … so if you’re not going to travel, it’s easy to take the spot for people who are going to be busy traveling out of town or doing something different.”

At Miami, Burke started working with Myaamia students beginning in 1991 and served as Coordinator of Miami Tribe Relations at Miami University from 1994 until she retired in 2019. Her work with Myaamia students through the Myaamia Center extended well beyond her specific employment responsibilities. One Myaamia student told the Oxford Observer that Burke was “the first person called when we needed help with all things Miami-related.” Myaamia students called her “Tribe Mom.” In 2005, she was named an honorary member of the Miami Tribe.

“Over the years, Bobbe has exemplified selflessness and dedication, making Oxford a stronger, more compassionate community,” Martin wrote in her nomination for Burke. “Her impact is far-reaching, and her work inspires all who know her.”

Burke currently serves on the Public Arts Commission of Oxford. When the Free Press started publication last July, Burke immediately stepped in as leader of the team of volunteers who distribute the newspaper around town every Friday.

Burke was named Oxford Citizen of the Year in 2003, one of a small handful who have now been recognized as both Citizen of the Year and Citizen of the Years.

“Bobbe Burke embodies the true spirit of this award through her long-standing dedication to improving the Oxford community,” Martin wrote. “Her leadership, compassion, and selflessness have positively affected countless individuals and families, both directly and indirectly. Although I know she would not want recognition or rewards, I had to nominate her because I believe she truly represents the ideal of a Citizen of the Year. I cannot think of a more deserving recipient for the ‘Citizen of the Years’ award.”