Alan Goodman ’72

Keeping close ties to Syracuse University is important to Alan Goodman ’72—and he’s enthusiastic about SU’s efforts to connect with Boston alumni. “We have grown this relationship, and need to continue to build on our success,” says Goodman, a Boston-area architect who earned his degree in industrial design. “I feel fortunate that SU in Boston allows us to stay connected, and to sustain a meaningful connection to campus in this city.”

Some of Goodman’s most treasured memories of SU center around working with fellow College of Visual and Performing Arts Industrial Design students in the basement of Archbold Gymnasium. “It was just us down there, truly committed to our craft, each other, and the department,” he says. “I fondly remember traveling to Virginia senior year as part of a team representing SU in a national competition, and we simply outshined the other design schools with both our product and our presentation. I was proud to be an SU student.”

Goodman is not only an alumnus, he’s also the father of three SU grads—sons Adam ’02, Jonathan ’06, and Peter ’09. “Syracuse University was where I realized that I was competent, where I learned to work hard, and where I developed confidence,” he says. “SU did the same for my children.”

Family is a top priority for Goodman, who has established the Goodman Family Scholarship at SU. “It’s a scholarship that will provide assistance to deserving future students, as well as create a family legacy,” he says. “Syracuse University produces great people—my sons, their former roommates, and friends are extraordinary people. I think the University contributes to that in a major way.”

Establishing the scholarship was Goodman’s way to give back to the University for the education he received, and to ensure that others have the same opportunity. “The general attitude and values of the University align closely with my societal views,” he says. “Syracuse University gives people the chance and the forum to be successful. I wanted to be sure I gave something back to the University for giving me so much.”