Dr. Robert Hess graduated from BHS in 1950. He completed a two-year pre-med degree at Potomac State College, where he also studied piano and was a member of the Mens' Chorus. After graduating from the WVU School of Medicine and the Medical College of Virginia, Robert finished his residency at the current Charleston Area Medical Center and moved back to Bridgeport.
In the early 1960s through the 1980s, he regularly performed free physicals for all Bridgeport athletes and served as the team physician for 25 years. In 1976, he left private practice to become director of medical education and to establish the United Hospital Center Family Medicine Residency Program.
Robert served as president of the WV State AMA, president of the WV Chapter of the American Academy of Family Physicians, president of the Harrison County Medical Society and on the boards of St. Mary's Hospital, UHC and WesBanco.