Alumni Service Hall of Fame 2022 - 2023 Inductees

Julie Dobski '16

Owner - Little Jewels Learning Center
Retired Owner - McDonald's Franchises

In 1988, Bob and Julie Dobski, along with their four children, moved to Bloomington-Normal as the owners of several area McDonald’s Restaurants.  The Dobski’s opened their first McDonald’s franchise in 1982 in Farmington, Missouri.  They retired from the McDonald’s franchisees in Bloomington, Normal, McLean, and Gibson City, January 2017.   In 2004, Julie and Bob opened their first Little Jewels Learning Center and presently own and operate three Child Care Centers.  Bob, not being able to really retire, opened Rob Dob’s Restaurant, October 2019 in Bloomington.

Julie and Bob have made numerous charitable donations throughout the community, has volunteered, and have enjoyed being a member of many committees, boards, and organizations.  

They have given much of their time and resources within these two companies to support the community. They have both served as President of the McLean County Chamber of Commerce. 

Julie serves as Chair on the ISU College of Business Board and has been awarded a Honorary Doctorate from Illinois State University.

Julie and Bob have received numerous honors locally including

Large Business of the Year, the Boy Scout Award, Women of Distinction and the Athena Award.  

Since moving to Bloomington-Normal, Julie and Bob have started a local amateur theatre group called the One Nighters II, and continues to go strong after 27 years.  

They  along with their friends started serving meals once a month at the Salvation Army Safe Harbor, and both are involved in the Holiday Spectacular Christmas Celebration.  

They contribute their success to the great staff they have in both businesses and of course, the support of family and many friends.  

They have 4 grown children and 3 handsome grandsons, Michael, Bryce and Dean that are the love of their lives.