Robert A. Nichols

Owner & Chairman of the Board
Eagle Distributing of Shreveport, Inc.

Laureate 2014

Robert A. Bobby Nichols grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma in a middle-income family, a large family that all lived in Oklahoma; uncles, aunts and cousins around all the time. His close family relationships were a great support system to him. He was closest of all to his Grandmother. She would constantly remind him if you get your education, you can do anything.

A football scholarship to the University of Arkansas got him into college. As a senior, he was able to enroll in graduate courses for business management under the mentoring of Dr. Johansson. The experience opened a new world of business, broadened his horizons, and helped him to seek greater opportunities.

Fortunately for Bobby, great coaches, great teachers and great mentors have always challenged him to work harder and to be better all his life. That was true when he started his beverage distribution business in 1980 in Little Rock, Arkansas. A lot of people said it wouldnt happen. Even his own friend and accountant told him, youve got a great business plan but you dont have any money. Bobbys approach was to find a financial partner and make it happen.

Located in Shreveport since 1992, Eagle Distributing is an Anheuser-Busch beer distributor serving nine parishes in Northwest Louisiana along with Eagle Beverage which distributes wine, liquor and other beverages in Northwest Louisiana.

After learning of his nomination, Bobby wrote, As a Junior Achievement Laureate, I have come to understand their mission and believe their philosophy and program objectives are key to economic success. Working with students to teach financial literacy, work-readiness and entrepreneurship, these JA lessons taught in the classroom by volunteers, inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global world. These same philosophies have helped to motivate Bobby to own his economic success through his understanding of the importance of staying in school.

Family is very important to Bobby. His wife, Pam, is his partner in business and for life. His son, Brad Nichols, is now running the company. Bobby and Pam have four children, Darcey, Brad, Mandy and Christine. All are married and have blessed them with nine grandchildren. Currently, Bobby is serving as a Board member of the National Beer Wholesalers Association, as a Member of the Committee of 100 and the Rotary Club of Shreveport. He has also served on the Vestry of St. Marks Episcopal Church.