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Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
Robert C. “Bob” Vackar, Chairman of Bert Ogden Motors, is a game-changing figure in the Rio Grande Valley. His business, philanthropy, and education achievements have left an indelible mark on South Texas. Celebrated with the 2024 Golden Eagle Award by the Rio Grande Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Vackar’s story reflects a deep-rooted commitment to personal excellence and his community’s welfare.
Vackar’s journey began in Gonzales, Texas, and led him to Edinburg, where he worked at his father’s business, Vackar Lumber Supply while attending high school. This early experience instilled a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. After graduating, he earned a degree in accounting from Texas A&M University, joining the Corps of Cadets, which cultivated his leadership skills. Vackar later applied these skills in his role as a financial analyst at Shell Oil and as a serviceman in the U.S. Army at the close of the Vietnam War, experiences that instilled resilience and discipline.
In 1983, Vackar returned to Edinburg, joining his father-in-law’s dealership, Bert Ogden Motors, as a sales manager. His commitment soon led him to General Motors Dealer College, and in 1992, he became dealer principal. Under his stewardship, Bert Ogden Motors transformed from a single dealership into a network of 20 locations with 21 franchise lines, creating over 1,000 jobs in the region. Vackar notes, “The Valley has given me so much; I wanted to build something that would give back.” His business model combines integrity and community engagement, which has earned Bert Ogden Motors a reputation for service excellence and enduring trust in the Rio Grande Valley.
Philanthropy lies at the heart of Vackar’s legacy. With his wife, Janet Ogden Vackar, he has supported South Texas through significant contributions to education, healthcare, and veteran programs. They established the Robert C. Vackar College of Business & Entrepreneurship at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), an institution dedicated to cultivating future leaders and promoting entrepreneurship. Reflecting on his motivation, Vackar explains, “Education is one of the most powerful tools we can give to our community. It transforms lives, families, and futures.” His support has also led to the Robert and Janet Vackar Stadium construction, a space that embodies the couple’s belief in youth empowerment.
Vackar’s collaboration with UTRGV exemplifies his commitment to education and economic development. Many UTRGV graduates, including CEO Tasha del Barrio and Chief Administrative Officer Jorge Gutierrez, have joined Bert Ogden Motors and benefit from Vackar’s mentorship. “It’s an honor to work with so many talented young people who want to give back to their community,” he shares. His support for UTRGV has nurtured a mutually beneficial relationship that enriches the talent pool and strengthens the local economy.
This dedication to community impact has not gone unnoticed. The Golden Eagle Award, bestowed upon Vackar on October 25, 2024, honors his profound contributions. The award ceremony recognized his business success and his extensive philanthropic efforts. “Receiving this award is humbling,” Vackar expressed. “It’s a testament to the hard work of our team and the incredible spirit of the Valley. Together, we’re building something bigger than any one of us.”
At the event, Tim Smith, KRGV-TV5 meteorologist, referred to Vackar as a community pillar whose success exemplifies the power of merging business with social responsibility. Throughout his career, Vackar has prioritized a culture of giving, inspired by his father and father-in-law, both respected entrepreneurs and community advocates. He speaks frequently of Janet’s remarkable spirit, saying, “Janet gives from the heart. She inspires me and everyone around her to think beyond ourselves.” Their combined efforts have created a legacy of generosity, inspiring others to contribute to the growth and well-being of the Rio Grande Valley.
Reflecting on his journey, Vackar often emphasizes the importance of unity. “The success of Bert Ogden Motors is not just mine—it’s our team’s, it’s our community’s. The Valley has an incredible, collective spirit.” His leadership style, grounded in teamwork and shared goals, has fostered a collaborative environment at Bert Ogden Motors, benefiting employees and the wider community.
Vackar’s story is filled with lessons in vision and service, which future leaders will notice. His achievements accentuate the impact of integrating business growth with community development. Through the expansion of Bert Ogden Motors, Vackar has created a substantial economic footprint, providing both employment opportunities and a trusted resource for residents. His work with UTRGV has helped establish the institution as an inspiration for higher education, further enhancing the region’s talent and potential. He believes in the Valley’s unique spirit, inspired by students who, in his words, “are academically driven and, more than anything, entrepreneurial. It’s what makes this place great.”
By recognizing the needs of his community and investing in its future, Vackar has shown that true leadership transcends profit. His dedication to education, veterans, and economic empowerment has enriched the lives of countless individuals. Summing up his approach, he often says, “Success is most meaningful when shared with others.” The Golden Eagle Award symbolizes his past accomplishments and enduring influence, inspiring South Texas for generations to come.
Through his actions, Robert C. Vackar exemplifies how a commitment to the community can amplify personal and business success. His legacy—rooted in education, service, and solid dedication to the Rio Grande Valley—serves as a model for future leaders. As Vackar looks ahead, his message remains simple yet profound: “Together, we’re building something truly special.”
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