A Closer Look

"A Closer Look" was created to provide a peek into the lives of the OH&S staff. To see those who have already been featured, click on the icons in the department directory.

Who:
Robert Heath, Jr.

Title:
Radiation Safety Assistant Director

Birthplace:
Montgomery, AL at St. Margaret's Hospital

How long have you worked for OH&S?
13 years, 6 months

College(s) attended/degrees?
Stillman College, B.S. in Physics

What is the best job you've ever had?
The best job that I have ever held has to be the position of Health Physics Auditor. Everything was brand new. I had just moved from the Tuscaloosa/Northport area, I had a bran new Pontiac Grand Am GT (sweet), a new (very, very old) apartment, and was newly employed at UAB. I learned a lot and took advantage of so many opportunities to help and provide services to many.

If you could leave a legacy for your family, what would it be?
I would leave a legacy of financial independence and a legacy of a good and well respected name.

What one word would you use to describe yourself? Why?
If I could choose one word to describe myself, it would be compassionate: I have come to learn and appreciate over the years that to love is far greater than any other thing that I can do or accomplish. When this life is over, what matters the most is not necessarily how I've been treated but rather how I have treated others.

What one word would your mother use to describe you? Why?
The one word that my mother would use to describe me would have to be relentless. I am not one to quit or quickly give up. I like to think that there are always possibilities.

If you could fluently speak any other language, what would it be? Why?
If I could fluently speak any other language, it would be sign language and braille. To lose one's sight or hearing is to lose among the most precious of God's gifts. I have always felt that communication with the deaf or blind is a very worthwhile way to spend your time.