Bob is a life-long farmer, having grown up on the grain and livestock farm he currently operates in Fayette County, Ohio. He graduated cum laude from the Ohio State University with a bachelor’s of science degree in agriculture. He was a member of the OSU honors program and while there worked 20-30 hours per week at the university’s research farm and traveled extensively with the OSU Livestock Judging Team. Between 1987-1989, Peterson was a part of the OSU Leadership Development Class (LEAD), which included educational experiences in Japan, China, and Korea. The class provided Peterson with extensive experiences in leadership, media training, state and national political processes, economics, environmental issues, food safety and security, social issues and family values.
He met his wife, Lisa, during the Fayette County fair, when she was the 4-H Extension Agent. As their family grew, Lisa left Extension and now volunteers extensively with school, church, and community organizations. Bob and Lisa are the parents of three children: Hannah, Todd, Sarah and their son-in-law John. Their goal, said Bob, is to “Raise great kids, serve the community and help make the world a better place.
Peterson’s resume contains an impressive list of organizations, activities and causes that have benefited from his commitment to community. He also has been active in the Farm Bureau in a variety of leadership positions, culminating to his position as Ohio Farm Bureau President for nearly five years. In addition to his farming duties, Senator Peterson served as a Fayette County Commissioner for 14 years before being elected to the Ohio House of Representatives in 2011. He joined the Ohio Senate in 2012, where his knowledge and leadership have earned him a seat at the table on the issues that matter most to the families and communities of the 17th Senate District. He has contributed at the local, state and national level as a volunteer, elected leader, government official and advisor. His intelligence and enthusiasm are widely recognized and sought after by civic, church, government and membership organization. Bob Peterson’s experience and qualifications make him an excellent candidate to serve as State Senator for the 17th District.
Senator Peterson is proud to be endorsed for reelection by the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association, Ohio Education Association, Affiliated Construction Trades Ohio, Fraternal Order of Police, Ohio Chamber of Commerce, Ohio Society of CPAs, International Union of Operating Engineers Local 18, Ohio State Medical Association, National Federation of Independent Business, and the Teamsters. Additionally, he was named a Friend of Agriculture by the Ohio Farm Bureau.
