Emily Goodman ‘97

What grades did you attend Bullis? What year did you graduate?

9-12 (Upper School); graduated in 1997

Where did you attend college and what is your occupation?

University of Pennsylvania for undergrad; Fordham University School of Law for law school. I'm a lawyer.

What activities or classes were most memorable for you as you reflect on your time at Bullis?

Wow—it's very hard to choose! There were so many memorable experiences at Bullis. Certainly, playing on sports teams with our incredible coaches - for me it was Nancy Bluthardt, Wayne Ferrell, and Nina Cochrane - was a foundational part of my time at Bullis. I loved how everyone stayed after school to participate in activities and support other teams. I also have vivid memories of classes with Doug London and Ross Clark. I channel Mr. London's passion for book dissection in my book club to this day!

How did Bullis best prepare you for college and beyond?

At Bullis I developed a passion and appreciation for community. I not only benefited from the strong and supportive Bullis community, but - importantly - I learned how important it is to contribute. Throughout college and in my life today, I prioritize anything that promotes a sense of community. I participate on my community board, coach kids' sports, organize professional events locally, spearhead local election and policy engagement and lead my college soccer team's mentor program. I always smile at and say hi to my neighbors -- all things that I appreciate will have a positive impact on my community, which is a value I learned at Bullis.

Please tell us about what you have been doing since graduating from Bullis.

After graduating from Bullis, I went to University of Pennsylvania, where I fell in love with Philadelphia and living in the city. At Penn, I played soccer, majored in Political Science and had a lot of fun with wonderful friends. I moved to NYC after that and went to Fordham School of Law. I lived in NYC for 14 years and moved to Greenwich, CT in 2014. I cried (a lot!) the day I left NYC, but I absolutely love living in Greenwich. Along the way, I've been lawyering and, most importantly, had two awesome kids, Livia and Leo. I spend a lot of time on the sidelines of their sports games! I worked at a law firm for the first 7 years of my career, but have since worked as in-house counsel at 3 different companies. I'm lucky enough to have a very interesting legal role. I've always been a product and regulatory lawyer, focused on FinTech. Basically, I get to help build cool products and grow innovative businesses -- a very fun way to lawyer. Currently I'm Head of Legal at HQ Digital, which operates in the digital asset space. I still play soccer as well! I play with a local adult pick-up league here in Greenwich.

Which part of your journey has been most rewarding?

It's incredibly rewarding that, for me, hard work, curiosity, and just simply always trying to do the right thing pays off.

What would you say to Bullis students who are currently on their journey to finding purpose?

Be exceptionally curious. Be proactive and reach out to talk to people in your network. There are so many wonderful and experienced people who are willing to give their time and guidance, but you have to let them know you're looking for it. Do this knowing you'll pay it forward eventually!

What global challenge would you like to see tackled and how do you see yourself contributing to the positive change that you desire?

Unequivocally, I am thinking the most right now about women's rights. I try to contribute to positive change by participating in local politics and policy. In particular, I do a lot to engage people to vote in an informed way. Professionally, I prioritize female mentorship. I am lucky enough to have a great network and credibility. I always make myself available to speak with and help younger women as they're starting out in their career or considering moves along the way. To that point, any Bullis students or alumni who want to connect, I'm always open to it. Please email me -- I'd love to chat.

Why would you tell a prospective family to choose Bullis?

Bullis is a wonderful community! Everyone has something to give to and get from Bullis. I feel so lucky that I had the opportunity to attend Bullis! I'm equally thrilled that my niece is a current Bullis student.