Memories of Goodrich

Dr. Okhamafe! I was 19 years old when I took his class. He was one of many professors that demanded hard work and high standards. When I took
his autobiographical reading and writing class I was required to read six autobiographies, write six book reports, and a 20 plus page autobiography.
Prior to his class, I had yet to read six books in four months ever. He and the class showed me it was possible through time management and hard
work. When it was over, there was a tremendous feeling of accomplishment, personally and academically. The class showed me that I could make it through college.

I don't believe that I have a favorite moment or memory. The overall experience was a unique, once in a lifetime opportunity. I met amazing peopleand created lifelong friendships.

Goodrich gave me a sense of community from the moment I stepped onto campus. I do not have one specific memory to share, but will never forget the feeling of belongingness the program provided.

My first semester in the program I had Dr. Carroll for my English class. I had been out of high school for about 8 years at the time and was not a very good writer. We had an assignment to write a paper on some topic and I tried to “pull one over on him” and wrote the paper using probably 14
or 16 font! Dr. Carroll called me out, in a very kind way, and I confessed to using such a big font because I didn’t know what else to write and wanted to take up space. He was very understanding and let me rewrite the paper and taught me how to be a better writer. I always cherished his kindness and encouragement for me to continue with my studies. He had been a great mentor for me throughout the years. He has been a
monumental person in my life and was part of significant occasions while attending UNO. He came to my graduation party, wrote me recommendation letters for other scholarships, and attended a celebration when I received honors in my last year of school. I have always appreciated everything he has done for me while at UNO and even after I graduated. I know he has made an impact on many, many lives and I will
be eternally grateful for his friendship.

I really enjoyed taking a Goodrich summer trip to Central City, NE. This experience gave me a chance to connect with fellow Goodrichers, as well as Dr. Richardson and Dr. Okhamafe, while also learning about a Nebraskan author (Wright Morris, The Home Place) and engaging those locals
in the community via volunteer service work. It gave me a more vibrant understanding of my own state and its history, as well as the lived
experiences of others calling Nebraska home. The camraderie shared between those I didn't yet know well was greatly appreciated. Additionally, the warmth and kindness showed me anytime I entered the Goodrich lounge during my years at UNO from staff, administration, and Goodrichers is priceless to me. It gave me a sense of home while at UNO.

The personal touch that many instructors employed to guide all the students to overcome obstacles and succeed. It was very encouraging, and
because they would address us in small groups, in seemed personal and made us determined.

My favorite Goodrich memory is meeting my best friend in US Perspectives with Todd

Dear Goodrich Program, Cheers to 50 years! I’m a writer and reporter, thanks to the nurturing you gave to me that helped launch my career years ago (and those of so many of my dearest friends). Still, I find it hard to find the words to fully express how much you have meant to me. You were a rock in my formative years. You gave this first generation college grad a boost of confidence (and financial assist) to know I could make it professionally. You propelled siblings, cousins and dear friends into public offices, community leadership and other contributing roles that today make our world better. Not only that, but your influence continues beyond just our generation. My own daughter just graduated medical school. My son is an electrical engineer. That is not to brag 🙂… it’s to say that they are just a few of the ripple effects of the Goodrich scholarship program, for their good fortunes were built upon UNO students taught by the likes of Mike Carroll, Jerry Cederblom and so many of the Goodrich professor and mentor greats who are too many to name. Thanks again for being there in tough times and in fun and prosperous times. I never forget from where I came (you helped reinforce that pride in our diverse hearts and souls) and I am always here to help our family as it continues to grow and further enhance our community. Keep the stride, Troy Romero, Abrazos, Cindy González

On Jan. 18 2019, I got into a terrible car crash with a Semi-Truck that totalled my car. I luckily walked away with no broken bones, but I lost myself
and reason to be here. There was a lot of guilt and regret. My presence went from every day to only when I felt obligated to show up. One day in
the Goodrich Suite, I was in Patty's office and she asked me "How are you? Are you doing okay?" She already knew I wasn't okay, but it was her knowing I wasn't myself. A lot of weight and stress was released that day in Patty's office. It came as such a shock that someone noticed, cared, and acted on this. That day I was reminded of myself and my importance. Patty reminded me (repeatedly) that it's okay and I should put myself first. After, I was able to ask my GO officer team to step up and help so I can step back as GO President. I asked and received help from my
professors in class. My sister came whenever I called (even in the middle of the night) to give a ride, help me breath through a panic and asthma
attack, or just so I'm not alone. Being a member of the Goodrich community helped me overcome the hardest personal hardship in my life

The creation of the Goodrich Student Organization and the many functions we held is my top memory of being a Goodrich Scholar. Going to present in San Diego at a college student transition convention was a great memory. We shared how the organization we created helped students transition from being a Senior in high school to freshman in college. I would have never thought I would ever do something like that.