Alumna Gillian White Goodrich ’68 and Mike Goodrich Give $2 Million to Converse

Passionate about the future of Converse University, philanthropists Gillian and Mike Goodrich are donating $2 million to support the institution’s mission and strengthen its impact. A long-time supporter of Converse, Gillian White Goodrich ’68 has given to her alma mater for more than half a century.

This latest gift builds on a series of significant philanthropic investments in Converse, its programs, and its affordability initiatives for students. This investment allows Converse to remain steadfast in its mission to educate and empower the next generation of transformative leaders who see clearly, decide wisely, and act justly.

The gift is deeply personal to Gillian, who graduated with a degree in history; she pursued a career as a high school history teacher and later as an adjunct professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. From there, she worked as the director of charitable contributions for Protective Life Insurance Company, then served as chair of the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham before starting her family foundation.

“Converse prepared me to be a lifelong learner in all facets of life. I was surrounded by top-notch teachers and curious minds in the classroom,” Gillian said. “I learned so many skills, especially how to function as (part of) a group and lead a team, which I have used many times throughout my career.”

The Goodriches are “incredible examples” of what it means to be philanthropists, said Katie Talbert, vice president of institutional advancement and external relations at Converse. “Their commitment to invest in the communities they love is truly inspiring,” Talbert shared. “They have continuously shown their support over the years for the Converse community, and we could not be more grateful for their generosity.”

They are also passionate about student success. The couple want to make an impact on Converse for years to come, not only through their impactful gift, but through future estate planning.

“Through their vision and partnership, this remarkable gift from the Goodriches to Converse continues to move our mission forward and advance educational opportunities for our students,” said Converse President Boone Hopkins. “This support is an investment in our future and reflects a deep belief in the transformative power of higher education.”

Hopkins presented Goodrich with the Dexter Edgar Converse Award on Sept. 17 as part of the university’s celebration of Fall Convocation. Named for Converse's founder, this award honors individuals who continue the commitment to the Founder's Ideal; it is the university's highest honor.

In 2008, Gillian and her family founded the Mike and Gillian Goodrich Charitable Foundation to support equity and economic opportunity in Birmingham, the Black Belt, and the State of Alabama. After seeing the need in her community through years of learning from and working within philanthropic groups, the foundation focuses on supporting transformative, sustainable programs that create vibrant communities – goals that are in strong alignment with Converse’s mission and vision.

“Converse is a strong traditional liberal arts school that is preparing our students for a range of future endeavors,” said Gillian.