Distinguished Alumni Award
Robert “BOBO” Oros ’90, Sigma Pi Alumnus Gives the Spring Commencement Address at CMU
Meet Bob “BOBO” Oros, a vibrant force within Sigma Pi’s illustrious legacy at CMU! From the basement of 412 to the heights of Chicago’s financial arena, BOBO’s journey is one of relentless ambition and unwavering dedication.
Captured in a professional headshot, Bob’s trademark smile shines through, framed by stylish glasses and a sharp suit—a far cry from the scenes we fondly recall from our fraternity days. But beneath the polished exterior lies a man whose Sigma Pi roots run deep, infusing every aspect of his remarkable career.
As Chairman and CEO of Hightower Advisors, Bob’s visionary leadership has propelled the firm to unprecedented heights, expanding its advisor-focused infrastructure and skyrocketing its size by a staggering 30%. Today, Hightower boasts an impressive network of 130* financial advisory practices nationwide, managing a staggering $119 billion in assets—a testament to BOBO’s unparalleled prowess in the financial realm.
Drawing upon his invaluable bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance from CMU, Bob utilizes his expertise to recruit, retain, and empower financial advisors, shaping the future of the industry with his unparalleled insight and acumen. But it’s not just his academic credentials that set him apart—it’s the invaluable lessons learned as a brother of Sigma Pi that truly distinguishes him.
Bob’s commitment to the community knows no bounds, as evidenced by his tireless advocacy for mental health, financial literacy, and education. As chair of the Mental Health Association of Greater Chicago and a board member of EEqual, he champions causes close to our hearts, embodying the core values of Sigma Pi in every endeavor.
But perhaps Bob’s most enduring legacy lies in his unwavering dedication to paying it forward. Through his steadfast support of CMU, he creates boundless opportunities for aspiring students, offering them rare glimpses into the inner workings of the financial world. From exclusive tours of the New York Stock Exchange to private visits to iconic landmarks like Wrigley Field and the Chicago Board of Trade, Bob’s generosity knows no bounds, igniting the flames of ambition in the hearts of future leaders.
His contributions to CMU extend far beyond financial support, as evidenced by his invaluable service on various boards and advisory panels, including the Finance Department Advisory Board and the College of Business Administration Dean’s Advisory Roundtable. In a remarkable gesture, Bob established the Bob Oros Multi-Asset Investment Fund, leaving an indelible mark on CMU’s academic landscape for generations to come.
And so, it comes as no surprise that the Central Michigan University Alumni Association proudly bestows upon Bob Oros the prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award—an honor befitting of a true Sigma Pi icon.
As brothers of Sigma Pi and members of the MCAC, we raise our glasses in celebration of our beloved brother, Bob “BOBO” Oros—a shining example of what it means to be a “Sig Pi Through and Through!”