Robert Hoffer - '81

Robert Hoffer, renowned as the "Botfather," has made unparalleled contributions to the technology and AI industries through his groundbreaking inventions and visionary insights. As a co-founder of Colloquis, Hoffer developed SmarterChild, the first commercially viable AI chatbot for instant messaging. This pioneering innovation transformed human-computer interaction, laying the foundation for modern virtual assistants and conversational AI technologies that are prevalent in today's digital landscape. The success of SmarterChild and its subsequent acquisition by Microsoft for $46 million underscore the strategic significance of Hoffer's work. SmarterChild, Hoffer,'s invention is widely considered the progenitor of all modern chatbots - from Siri and Alexa to ChatGPT. Hoffer's inventive prowess extends beyond AI chatbots to include the development of the first online directory services, interstitial advertising, and web-based scratch-off games. These innovations have become integral components of digital marketing and online engagement strategies, highlighting his extensive influence on the tech industry. His philosophy of "everything old is new again" reflects his approach to repurposing and evolving existing ideas to create transformative technologies. Notably, Hoffer was among the earliest to raise concerns and ring the alarm bell about the dangers of AI, advocating for the necessity to "give bots a soul" and warning of the potential risks inherent in chatbot technologies. His foresight into the ethical and societal implications of AI remains pertinent as the industry continues to grapple with and navigate these ethical challenges. Robert Hoffer's legacy is defined not only by his technological innovations but also by his profound impact on shaping the discourse around the future of AI and digital communication cementing his place in computer science history and its future. Rob has 3 children, Nathan, Abigail, and Rebecca. He is an avid yachtsman and enjoys playing guitar, photography, and traveling. He resides in Miami Beach but also maintains residences in New York, San Francisco, and Cannes, France. Inducted 2024.

CLASS YEAR

1981

share this

Related Stories

Peter E. Rork, M.D. (1971)

September 5, 2025
Dr. Peter E. Rork built a distinguished career as an orthopedic surgeon after earning his medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and completing advanced training in hand, knee, and sports medicine surgery. For more than two decades he cared for patients in Sun Valley and Jackson Hole, served as an orthopedic surgeon for the U.S. Olympic Ski Team, and published widely in his field. After retiring from medicine in 2012, he turned his passion for service toward animals by founding Dog Is My CoPilot. This renowned nonprofit has transported over 38,000 at-risk animals to safety and has since expanded into a nationally recognized rescue organization. His journey reflects a lifelong commitment to healing — first in medicine and later in animal welfare.

Kim Smith (1985)

September 4, 2025
A catalyzer of leaders, ideas and networks, Kim Smith is passionate about ensuring all of our young people have access to the knowledge, skills and experiences they need to thrive in life, college, careers and our diverse pluralistic democracy. Kim is the founder and CEO of LearnerStudio, which is focused on accelerating progress toward the future of learning. Kim serves on a wide range of boards, is a Henry Crown Fellow at the Aspen Institute, and an Entrepreneur in Residence at Cambiar Education. She lives in northern California with her husband and two daughters.

Willie Geist (1993)

September 3, 2025
Willie Geist is the host of NBC News’ “Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist,” where he earned the Edward R. Murrow Award. He is also a co-host of MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” and a regular host of “TODAY,” as well as a contributor to programs across NBC News. Geist also contributes to the NBC Sports Group, where he has hosted coverage of several Olympic Games. Geist is the author of three books, including the New York Times bestsellers Good Talk, Dad and American Freak Show. He lives in New York with his wife and their two children.
ALL ALUMNUS