Has it Been a Year Already?
Written by Doug Goodnough
“Don’t look back — somebody may be gaining on you.” – Satchel Paige
Reflecting on my first year in Hillsdale’s Alumni Office, I must somewhat disagree with Hall of Fame pitcher Mr. Paige. The nature of my job has been to take a look back to tell our alumni stories, and I’m certainly not worried that somebody (except Father Time) may be gaining on me. By last count I’ve penned more than 50 features over the past year, and have relished sharing those with you in the White & Blue, as well as on our social media channels. If you’ve missed any, we have them archived on the College’s blog.
Our alumni help tell the story of the College’s past, and hopefully also provide inspiration for the future.
A college or university can be known for many things, but ultimately what it is known for are the accomplishments and outcomes of its graduates. Hillsdale has done an exceptional job of instilling its mission into its students, especially “developing minds and improving hearts.”
Over the past year at our many alumni events and activities around the country, I’ve seen it firsthand. After meeting alumni from all over the professional and personal spectrum, I’ve found a consistent thread that is woven throughout our alumni base: they are passionate, and they are achievers.
What do I mean by that? They are passionate about their families and their faith. These people are passionate about their careers. They are passionate about their communities and country. And their impact on the world around them is apparent.
Want a prime example? I have a fantastic one. This alumna was nearly forgotten in the annals of history until very recently. In fact, I had never heard the name Elizebeth Smith Friedman until I came back to work for the College. She grew up in rural Indiana and transferred from Wooster College to Hillsdale to be closer to family.
After graduating from Hillsdale in 1915, she was on a path to be a school teacher when fate delivered her to a Chicago businessman who wanted her to decrypt Shakespeare’s writings to disprove he was actually the author of his works. That led to a distinguished career in code-breaking that aided America and its allies in winning two world wars and taking down the Mafia during Prohibition. How many people have a ship named after them? She does.
I’m thrilled the College is honoring her at this year’s Alumni Awards Banquet during White & Blue Weekend. The Elizebeth Smith Friedman Award for Freedom will be presented to her posthumously, and will be given to future alumni who exhibit her qualities of selfless service to country.
Year two at the ’Dale looks like a great one, and I can’t wait to share more alumni stories with you!
Doug Goodnough, ’90, is Hillsdale’s director of Alumni Marketing. He enjoys connecting with fellow alumni in new and wonderful ways.
Published in March 2023