James Riley ’94
The perseverance, resilience, and heart for service of his aunt Goldie Ivory ’56 M.A., motivated James Riley ‘94 to uphold her legacy and make a difference in his community.
“Inspiration to be a force for good often starts close to home. Aunt Goldie’s experience inspired me to attend Notre Dame and, years after graduation, it still inspires me in my work, ensuring Our Lady’s University is a place where all are welcome and supported. I carry forward her legacy every day. I feel her influence, and I hope to be the example to others that she was to me.“
In Advent, we are reminded that Jesus was born into every aspect of the human condition. Both common shepherds and wise men from far-off lands came to worship him. God included everyone in this pivotal time. As we strive to live by this example, how can we be a force for good and broaden the ties that bind our communities together?
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So beautiful James!!! Thank you for sharing this touching story.
Beautiful story!
Thanks for sharing your story. Appears we are classmates from ‘94. Merry Christmas
All the Advent stories are inspiring. This one especially this one as an African-American whose spouse held two degrees from ND. I also know that following in the heart of Jesus, ND during the depression provided food to the AA community as well as the others. It’s greatness has always extended beyond its walls.
Just beautiful! We need more Aunt Goldie’s today then ever. Thank you for sharing her story with us – and continuing her work.
Thank you for sharing your meaningful story, and the way your Aunt Goldie was a “force for good”. I believe that all alumni had those seeds planted while we were students at Notre Dame. Stories like the onc you shared help bring forth the good fruits, so that all of our communities benefit from the good works. Thank you again, for the good work that you do, and the inspiration you shared with us.
Wow what a great story. Keep up the great work James🍀
ND’72
James, as your video started, I noticed that you were smiling, and that you smiled throughout your eloquent memories of your aunt Goldie and your life at Notre Dame. Your justifiable pride in your aunt showed through as did your love for Notre Dame. It was a pleasure for me just to sit and listen to you talk about her and your experiences at Notre Dame.
As an aside, I was a senior I lived in Farley Hall and Don Wycliff was a freshman on my floor about three rooms away from me. I viewed Don as an outstanding person, and I have surreptitiously followed his career since then, and I’ve been pleased to see how much he has accomplished in his life.
You, your Aunt Goldie and Don are a great credit to Notre Dame. Merry Christmas to you and your families.
Wonderful reflection. Much respect for your aunt – someday you’ll see get again a better place than this world..
James, this is a beautiful example of how people in our lives make a huge impact on us . Thank you for sharing this touching reflection!
Thank you, James, for this thoughtful and thought-provoking reflection! I’m sure your admiration for Aunt Goldie is only exceeded by her admiration for you! God bless you and your family.
Thank you for inspiring so many of us who limit our aspirations to celebrate and find hope in your Aunt’s legacy and your generous response, James. Our Notre Dame experience keeps on opening doors to the work of the Holy Spirit in us.
Thank you for inspiring so many of us who limit our aspirations to celebrate and find hope in your Aunt’s legacy and your generous response, James. Our Notre Dame experience keeps on opening doors to the work of the Holy Spirit in us.
Your pride in Aunt Goldie and ND shines brightly in this message. So proud of all those who continue to show faith and love through lives well-lived. Each person is a shining piece of the Golden Dome!
Thanks for sharing this great story, James! God bless Aunt Goldie and you. Happy Holidays
James! What a wonderful story ! Thank you for sharing your family story during this season of Advent . Blessings
Beautiful – thank you for sharing!
Blessings to you and your family
James,
Love that you shared your family’s story! You definitely followed your Aunt Goldie’s influence, as you were always a great friend and inspriation to me.
Best wishes to you and your family during this holy season (and cheers to the entire Notre Dame drumline class of 1994!)
Go Irish!
Jeff
James are you a graduate of Riley HS in South Bend ?
Did you attend Perley School? I remember this really sweet, very bright, very quiet boy that was my 2nd grade student.
What a wonderful testimony to your Aunt
Wonderful reflection. I knew your aunt Goldie and I loved her! Her experiences and knowledge were beyond expectations. She made me breakfast many mornings before work!! Blessings to you!
Truly inspiring! Makes me very fortunate and proud to be a part of the Notre Dame family.
What a moving, inspiring testimonial to your Aunt Goldie and to Christ’s message to the whole of humanity…God Bless you