“An Inspiration for Good” – 2025–2026 Capitular Year

Most Excellent Companion Robert Roy Nilsen was installed as Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio on October 9, 2025. His Masonic journey began at the age of thirteen when he was initiated into Fairview Park Chapter, Order of DeMolay, in November of 1973. He served as Master Councilor in 1976, as a State Officer for four years, and is a recipient of the Past Master Councilor’s Meritorious Service Award, the Degree of Chevalier, and the DeMolay Legion of Honor.

MEC Robert R. Nilsen

Brother Nilsen was raised in Fairview Lodge No. 699 (now John W. Barkley Lodge No. 621) where he served four terms as Worshipful Master. He is also a three-time Past President of the Cuyahoga County Blue Lodge Association.

In the York Rite, Most Excellent Companion Nilsen is a Past Right Worshipful Master of DeMolay Mark Lodge No. 2, a Past High Priest of Summit-Baker Chapter No. 74, a Past Illustrious Master of Windermere Council No. 113, R&SM, and a member of Forest City and Oriental Commanderies. His journey through the elected line of the Grand Chapter began in 2017 when he was installed as Grand Master of the First Veil.

M.E.C. Nilsen is also a 41-year member of the Scottish Rite, Valley of Cleveland, where he served as Most Wise Master of Ariel Chapter, Rose Croix, from 2021 to 2023. In August of 2025, he was coroneted a 33° Scottish Rite Mason in Indianapolis.

His Masonic affiliations extend widely, including memberships in Al Koran Shrine, The River Chapter OES, the Royal Order of Scotland, St. Benedict Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine, the Grand Chapter Lodge of Research, and the Cleveland York Rite College, where he serves as an officer and ritual director. He is also a member of Fowler Council, Knight Masons of Ireland, and Prokop-Velky Lodge No. 708, Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In addition, Companion Nilsen serves on the Board of Trustees for both the Cleveland Masonic Library and the Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina, Ohio.

A 1978 graduate of Max S. Hayes Vocational High School in Cleveland, Companion Nilsen retired in June 2025 from Summa Health in Akron, where he served as Manager of Radiology Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Imaging Services. His professional life has been marked by dedication to innovation, precision, and compassionate service—values that mirror his Masonic character.

M.E. Companion Nilsen’s Masonic lineage runs deep. His late father, Roy Nilsen, was a Meritorious Service Award recipient in the Scottish Rite Valley of Cleveland, and his late mother, Venita Nilsen, was a Past Deputy Grand Matron of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Bob resides in Twinsburg, Ohio, with his wife of 27 years, Sue, and their beloved dog, Sassy.

Annual Installation

The Grand High Priest’s Charity: The National Multiple Sclerosis Society

The chosen charity for this Capitular year is the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS)—a cause deeply personal to Bob and Sue.

MEC Nilsen and his Lady Sue

Sue was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2001, and since that time, she has dedicated herself to helping others who live with this challenging condition. Over the years, Sue has volunteered at numerous NMSS events, providing encouragement, hope, and practical support to individuals and families affected by MS. Her compassion and commitment have touched many lives, and in 2017, she and Bob were jointly recognized as Volunteers of the Year by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

The NMSS funds groundbreaking research initiatives, supports community education and outreach, and provides direct assistance to those navigating the realities of MS. Through this partnership, the Grand Chapter joins the Nilsen’s in their mission to improve lives and advance the search for a cure.

An Inspiration for Good

Guided by the theme “An Inspiration for Good,” Most Excellent Companion Nilsen’s leadership calls upon every Companion to reflect the best of the Royal Arch in daily life—compassion, service, and the courage to make a difference. His example, alongside Sue’s enduring strength and volunteer spirit, stands as a living testament to that ideal.

Together, they remind us that when we labor with love and purpose, we truly become an inspiration for good among all mankind.