The longest serving member of the Commission and a native Georgian, Bob Durden is a graduate of Statesboro High and earned a B.A. (History), an M.A. (Political Science) and J.D. (Law) degrees from Emory University. Following military service in the Marine Corps, Bob taught courses in Economics, International Relations and American Government at Emory and was honored for his contribution to education as a recipient of Emory’s "Spokesman Award." Prior to his election, Bob was a trial attorney in private practice.

Bob was selected for membership in MENSA and has been named to "Who's Who in the South and Southwest," "Who's Who in American Law," Georgia Trend's "100 Most Influential Georgians," and "Who's Who in America." His plan to expand toll-free calling in Atlanta and 300 other Georgia communities and his successful fight to return $1.34 billion to Georgia ratepayers are hallmarks of his service.

Bob served as Chairman of the Commission in 1991, 1992 and again in 1995.