What’s it like to share the Blue Hen connection with your children?

Todd: Neither of us pushed our children to attend UD. We presented them with a range of options, took them on many different university tours, and encouraged them to at least consider UD. At first, UD was low on their list because they didn't want to go where mom and dad went. But as they evaluated their choices, UD started moving up on their list. They both enjoyed visiting the school and attending a couple football games with us, and when they made their final selection…. well, there was certainly a sense of pride.

Jessica: We loved our experiences at UD, and although we didn't insist on it, we wanted our children to at least consider it. UD has a special place in our hearts and our lives, so seeing our kids continue that tradition is meaningful to us.

What are some family traditions you've established at UD?

Jessica: UD has been a part of our family since 1991. We introduced our kids to the campus when they were young and came back with them in 2015 for a football game and to hopefully pique Georgia’s interest in attending. Now, we attend Homecoming together and UD will continue to be part of our lives.

Have you noticed similarities and differences between your experiences at UD and those of your children?

Jessica: Georgia's experience at UD is quite different from ours. She benefits from technology and opportunities that we didn't have. She's involved in student government, studied abroad and participated in research labs. We've emphasized to our son Ryan that the school has evolved, and he won't have the same experience as us. He’s rushing a fraternity, which is something the rest of us never did, and he’s taking early advantage of clubs and sports because he saw how his sister benefited from them.

Todd: We encouraged Georgia to take advantage of everything UD had to offer. While I played soccer briefly, I mainly focused on my academics. Looking back, I regret not joining more clubs and activities during my time there.

Jessica: I worked for the financial aid department and took advantage of networking opportunities. UD has changed, and the experiences are diverse, but it's essential to make the most of them.

What motivated you to actively engage with UD, and how has your involvement benefited you?

Todd: A development officer reached out and opened the door for us to give back to the university using some of our talents and professional connections. I started engaging more with UD by sponsoring job shadowing opportunities, mentoring students, and facilitating summer internships. Providing students with the opportunity to see what a career in pharmaceutical research is like, was a great way for me to support the next generation of potential researchers and help build connections between my company and UD. Additionally, while Jessica and I both mentor students, we have different talents and interests we bring to the mentorship, and many times we will work together to meet the specific needs of the student. For example, if I was mentoring students in the biopharma space who needed resume help, I would connect them to Jessica for help in resume development and networking tips. Most importantly, the students who we connect with and mentor are forever in our networks. In fact, we’ve had a few students over the years who, after entering the working world, have come back to us for further coaching or professional recommendations. Lastly, as far as how my involvement with UD has benefited me – being able to provide a little direction and coaching to those students that seek it, is its own reward.

Jessica: Initially, we attended small university networking events and made small donations. There was a phase when we had limited time and resources, especially when we had young children. Sharon Dorr, our alumni director at the time, played a crucial role in our involvement. And when Todd spoke to the development officer about partnering with us rather than just asking us to do something, it was nurturing and made us feel valued. We were excited to partner with UD to build a plan for supporting the Ammon Pinizzotto Biopharmaceutical Innovation Center at STAR campus—in fact, you can see our names on lobby plaque there, too.

The Moore family's story is a testament to the enduring bonds formed at the University of Delaware. Their love for their alma mater, their commitment to giving back, and their belief in the transformative power of education continue to inspire not only their children but also the entire UD community. The University of Delaware remains a place where the past, present, and future intertwine, and the Moore family's legacy is a shining example of the Blue Hen spirit.

Do you have a Blue Hen family story to share? Fill out this form about your Blue Hen family connections and we'll be in touch!