Bob Hisaoka named UMD Distinguished Alumnus

From co-owning some of the nation’s largest car dealerships to owning a Chicago-style hot dog restaurant franchise to working with dozens of charities to serving on the Smith School’s board of advisors, Robert G. Hisaoka ’79 has done it all. Now, he can add distinguished alumnus to his list of accomplishments and accolades. 

Hisaoka was named a distinguished alumnus from the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the 2013 Alumni Awards Gala. The college and school Distinguished Alumnus Awards are presented annually to University of Maryland alumni who have achieved excellence in their profession or field. 

“I am honored and humbled to receive this prestigious award from the university that made it all possible,“ Hisaoka says. And it is my honor to be able to support impactful nonprofit organizations that make a significant difference in the lives of so many.”

Hisaoka, president of RRR, LLC and Chidogo Holdings, LLC and a former CPA, created the Joan Hisaoka Gala, which honors his late sister and helps others living with cancer. He also supports approximately 25 charities focusing on health, education and sports. Because of these philanthropic efforts, Hisaoka was named one of Washington Life Magazine’s “Philanthropic 50.” 

Hisaoka joined the ranks of other Smith alumni who have received its distinguished alumnus award, including Gary Williams ’68, Leo Van Munching ‘50 and Ed Snider ’55.

SMITH’S DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI

• Waldo Burnside ’49 and Jean Burnside (UMD ’50 ): Spirit of Maryland Award
• Richard Novak ’62: Athletics Distinguished Alumnus Award
• Engineering and QUEST alumni board member Kevin Schoonover ’06: Young Alumnus
• Smith parents Michael and Debbie Schwab: Honorary Alumni Award
• Yang-Tzong "Jimmy" Tsay, PhD ’88: Graduate Studies Distinguished Alumnus Award