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Former Do it Best Corp. president and CEO Bob Taylor recently received a state award from Indiana Gov. Mike Pence.
Pence named Taylor a Sagamore of the Wabash, the highest civilian honor Indiana’s governor can bestow.
Pence announced the award in late March as part of a retirement celebration for Taylor, who officially stepped down Jan. 4 after 14 years leading Do it Best Corp. and 40-plus years working in the home improvement industry.
“Bob has always put others first and led with a servant’s attitude—and few can claim a record as impressive as his,” Pence says. “He has also been a lifelong civic leader, giving countless hours to improve the quality of life here in Indiana; many organizations have benefited from his experience, his insights, his generosity and his leadership. I can think of no one more deserving of this honor than my friend, Bob Taylor.”
The award was established more than 60 years ago by then-governor Ralph Gates as a tribute to state residents and other notable figures who have rendered a distinguished service and exemplary career or contributed greatly to the state’s heritage.
“While not a native Hoosier, I will always be a proud adopted son of Indiana, which makes this recognition from our governor incredibly humbling,” Taylor says. “My father instilled in me the importance of serving others through leadership. It has been my honor and privilege to work alongside so many talented and committed individuals in helping to move our state and our region forward.”
Upon Taylor’s retirement, Dan Starr became the fifth president and CEO of Do it Best Corp.
