Thank you, Rob Boston

Editor’s note: This blog post by AU President and CEO Rachel Laser originally appeared in the December 2025 issue of AU’s Church & State magazine. Much of the issue was dedicated to AU Senior Adviser Rob Boston, who will retire at the end of the month after 38 years with Americans United.

Dear Rob,

You have so much to be proud of from your 38 years at Americans United.

You are an extraordinary, passionate, effective expert on church-state separation. Anyone who has heard you speak — whether it’s on a cable news debate, at a conference, or at an AU chapter picnic — knows how you light up when you talk about this topic. Your four books, hundreds of magazine articles, daily blog posts and the cherished Church & State magazine have educated countless people, including our own movement leaders, for decades. You know this issue — its history, its current flashpoints, its nuances, its past and present allies, and its challenges — better than anyone. You have shaped how church-state separation is understood.

‘Americans United knows no better friend than Rob Boston.’

Americans United knows no better friend than Rob Boston. You are unafraid to speak your mind when it comes to protecting this organization. During the pandemic, when AU was tempted to apply for Paycheck Protection Program money, you held your ground and urged us to stay independent from the government. You were right. You have a deep respect for how AU has accomplished things in the past and a remarkable openness to new approaches. When I have gone through challenging leadership moments, you have always helped me figure out the best path for AU. Your loyalty to AU has been both principled and unwavering.

You are also our resident AU historian. You don’t just find gems from our past; you delight in them. When I highlighted the one woman, Charl Ormond Williams, involved in AU’s founding (drawing on one of your magazine articles) at an all-staff meeting, you surprised me with a framed picture of her for my office. And you’ve already reassured us that even in retirement you’ll be there when we need you. That generosity of spirit is so characteristic of you.

Personally, I have learned so much from you — from my first week on the job in 2018, when the Rev. Billy Graham died and you drafted the perfect statement, to the many moments afterward when I wouldn’t make a significant move without checking in with you. To this day, you brief me comprehensively and patiently. You have been a compass for me. 

‘The world needs more people like Rob Boston.’

Beyond your expertise and commitment to AU, you are an extraordinary person and a dear friend. Pre-pandemic, when we were in the office together every day, one of my favorite moments of the day was popping into your office in the morning for a chat. Your devotion to the people you love, your solo adventures and your quiet appreciation for your own life have inspired me. You are steady, open-minded and deeply kind. The world needs more people like you.

Thank you, Rob, for everything you have given AU, this cause and me. Thank you for being a living example of a good citizen and human. I will miss you, but I’m so happy for you to have more time to spend however you choose. Please know that your impact here endures, and that you will always be part of the AU family.

With respect and tremendous admiration,

Rachel