Rochelle Robkin
Time period/Baraboo: 1973 – 2016Submitted by: Baraboo Public Art Association
Rochelle Diane Merzon Robkins (1940-2016) was born in Newark, New Jersey and grew up in Los Angeles, California.
Rochelle came to Wisconsin in 1969 and to Baraboo in 1973, where she remained with her family for the rest of her life. Rochelle was a creative artist in many mediums and an inspirational teacher.
Working with the International Crane Foundation, she reached young people in Russia, China and Vietnam. In 2010 the International Crane Foundation honored her contributions with their ‘Good Egg Award.’
Rochelle was a long-time member of the Baraboo Optimist Club and served as an officer several times. She was a member of the board of the Al. Ringling Theatre and a co-founder of Stage III Theatre for youth. She taught all aspects of theater production.
As an art teacher in the Baraboo schools from kindergarten to University of Wisconsin-Baraboo/Sauk County she brought the world to her students. She shattered boundaries and constraints to show them the myriad ways to live in it and to find within themselves, and in the world, the resources to achieve their dreams.
Through her limitless creativity, inspirational teaching, tireless energy, loyalty to her friends and family and unshakeable belief in what students could accomplish, Rochelle ‘paid it forward,’ as will be seen for years to come