Graduating from Fort Meade High School (the "fighting Miners") in 1960, Hugh attended Florida State University (and is still a dedicated "Seminole"), received a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida Southern College (majoring in accounting and business administration), and a Master of Education from the University of Central Florida (majoring in business education and business administration), graduating summa cum laude. He has taken a number of courses in various institutions, mostly to enhance computer skills and to enhance management style.

After a career in the business world in which he held positions as accountant, controller, and manager, Hugh joined Polk State College in Winter Haven, Florida as a full time professor. He taught a variety of business administration and education courses, but specialized in accounting. He served many years at PSC as Dean of Arts, Letters and Social Sciences.

Hugh's love of Crooked Pine Ranch stems from a childhood filled with love of nature. His father, a citrus grower, instilled a love of the outdoors. A family retreat in the mountains of North Carolina helped to foster his respect for animals, trees, plants, and the "great outdoors." Hugh has hiked over 800 miles of the Appalachian Trail. An avid outdoorsman, Hugh has a love of wildlife and its beauty. Known as a protector of animals, he tolerates absolutely no hunting on Crooked Pine Ranch. His insistence that Crooked Pine Ranch remain an animal sanctuary is unwavering. Hugh has nothing against hunting, but not on this ranch.

There are a number of things of which Hugh is especially fond. Of course, he is known as a cat lover. He appreciates their beauty, their independence, and their demeanor. Hugh is a collector, with antique desk pens being a passion. He loves fishing, gardening, golf, fine art, music (mostly classical), and computers. Perhaps his idea of the ideal situation is sitting with Pam and daughter Savannah on the deck, a warm cat in his lap, a hot cup of coffee in hand, watching the sunset... and the absolute wonder of it all.