Barbara Goodrich
Barbara Goodrich is the Associate Director of Admissions for the nursing program at a private university in Tampa, Florida, where she has worked since October 2024. In this role, she leads a team of three admissions staff, manages the full student enrollment process, delivers information sessions to prospective students, and serves as the primary contact for academic and enrollment-related matters. Driven by a passion for changing lives, Barbara has directly assisted over 150 students in successfully enrolling in the nursing program, a milestone she regards as her greatest professional achievement.
A dedicated lifelong learner, Barbara earned her Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on Human Resource Management in 2024 and is completing her MBA in Business Administration and Management this year. She is also pursuing her PhD, demonstrating a commitment to both personal and professional growth. Throughout her career, Barbara has been recognized for her dedication and impact, including a rapid promotion within six months of employment and being named Employee of the Quarter.
Barbara’s professional philosophy emphasizes creating accessible pathways into nursing education while fostering a supportive, growth-oriented culture. She values honesty, respect, and empathy in leadership and believes that empowering her team and students alike is key to meaningful, lasting impact. Outside of work, she has contributed to her community through volunteer initiatives and remains committed to mentoring others and supporting educational success at all levels.
• Western Governors University - BBA
• Employee of Quarter Award 2026
• NSLS
• STEM
• Shrm
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the dedication and sacrifices of my family. Growing up as one of the first in my Greek family born in the U.S., I was inspired by their hard work, resilience, and commitment to preserving our traditions. Their example drives me to excel and give back, honoring the opportunities they created for me.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is simple: just go for it. I have a picture at my desk of a goose that says, “Fearless, hiss at things ten times your size. Confidence is louder than logic.” It reminds me not to let fear or self-doubt hold me back. Often, we talk ourselves out of opportunities because the unknown feels intimidating—but more often than not, we’re more qualified than we think. Technical skills can be learned on the job, but confidence and the willingness to try are what open doors. Don’t hold back—take the leap and see what happens.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to be bold and play by your own rules. Speak up, stop over-apologizing, and don’t be afraid to stand out. Success doesn’t require following a conventional path—you can achieve your goals on your own terms while paving the way for others.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge—and opportunity—in my field is outreach. Working at a private university, I see a need to improve accessibility and communication, especially for vulnerable or non-traditional students. By reaching out to youth, displaced individuals, and others who may feel disenfranchised, we can show them there are pathways to achieve their goals and help them take that next step.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are honesty, respect, and empathy. Honesty is essential for collaboration and trust, both at work and in personal life. Respect ensures productive and positive relationships, while empathy allows leadership and teams to understand and support each other, as well as the people we serve—in my case, our students. Ultimately, these values guide how I work and the impact I strive to make.