Adding Up to Something Bigger
Two Alumni Team Up to Change Lives Through Scholarships
Story by Maggie Griffin
From Campus Roots to a Shared Mission
As Steve Goodman (B.S. ’83, M.S. ’85) anticipates the University’s Centennial celebration, he recalls the growth of UH from a small commuter college to its present and future excellence:
“People are often surprised by the vibrant campus life [at the University of Houston], the number of dorms and the breadth of what UH offers — whether it’s the excellence of Bauer College of Business, the other great colleges within the UH System or the national recognition of our athletic programs.”
Aerial view of UH campus with downtown Houston in the background, 1980
Aerial view of UH campus with downtown Houston in the background, 1980
Goodman and fellow alumnus Mike Viator (’83) have established the Goodman and Viator Scholarship Program to help support the next generation of Cougars. The program is slated for two years and aims to provide financial support to deserving students, offering 40 scholarships annually, each valued at $2,000. In addition, it will support the attendance of Personal Financial Planning students at industry conferences and other financial literacy initiatives of the C. T. Bauer College of Business.
Houston CPA Society transfer of the President’s gavel, 1996
Houston CPA Society transfer of the President’s gavel, 1996
Although both Goodman and Viator are accounting graduates of Bauer, they didn’t know each other during their college years. Instead, they met while serving on the board of TXCPA Houston, where each went on to serve as president. They have also served together on the board of the Albert & Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation, where Viator currently serves as board chair. Goodman is president of Goodman Financial, a financial advisory and money management firm, and Viator is president of Rapid Turn Laser and Machine.
Seeing the Impact Firsthand
One of the most impactful parts of the scholarship program for both has been the opportunity to meet recipients in person and hear firsthand how UH is shaping their futures. Goodman said that while it is one thing to fund scholarships, it’s quite another thing to hear its impact directly from the recipients. “We've had the chance to meet with the students a few times — once in a classroom, once over lunch and most recently in a boardroom. Seeing so many of them together really drove home the impact.”
At a recent gathering, several students asked for individual photos with Goodman and Viator, and before they knew it, there was a line. “That moment really struck us,” Goodman said. “It showed just how meaningful the support was to them, and it was something we hadn’t expected. It was powerful and humbling.”
“Since being a recipient, I have been able to spend a lot more time on campus making friends and serving in new roles like on the Homecoming Board and with Bauer Ambassadors.”
Cynthia Blanchard (’25)
Scholarship Recipient
For the students, the support has often been life-changing.
“The Goodman and Viator Scholarship came at a time when I needed it most,” said scholarship recipient David Mira (’26). “I was seriously questioning whether I would even be able to continue the semester because I was short on the funds I needed. Receiving the scholarship not only lifted a huge financial burden but also gave me the chance to stay on track toward graduating. I’m truly grateful for the support and the difference it made in my life.”
Another scholarship recipient, Cynthia Blanchard (’25), shared that she used to spend more time at work than on campus. “The scholarship was a great supplement to my existing aid. Since being a recipient, I have been able to spend a lot more time on campus making friends and serving in new roles like on the Homecoming Board and with Bauer Ambassadors.”
A Cougar Commitment to the Next Generation
“Many of these kids are just like me,” said Viator. “I come from a working-class family that provided for my daily needs but had no extra resources for higher education. Financial assistance reduced my stress and workload. UH is exceptional in that so many of our students are the first in their families to graduate from college. It’s very touching to hear that I’m helping them make an impact on their lives.
“I feel sentimental and appreciative when I hear scholarship recipients talk about their education,” Viator said. “UH helped our [mine and Steve’s] careers, and giving back is meaningful. Especially while you’re still alive — you get to see your donation in action.”
Viator (’83) and Goodman (B.S. ’83, M.S. ’85) at the 2024 Bauer Gala
Viator (’83) and Goodman (B.S. ’83, M.S. ’85) at the 2024 Bauer Gala
Viator and Goodman aren’t the only ones who feel that way. Andrea Lopez (’26) looks forward to returning the favor after she graduates. “I hope to one day pay the support forward to future Bauer students,” Lopez said. “Here at Bauer, I truly have found a home, and I plan to grow as a professional and as a person to give back the same support I have found at Bauer.”
Giving back is deeply personal for both Viator and Goodman.
“UH has played a huge role in our lives. It's what brought me to Texas,” Goodman said. “I earned my undergraduate degree from the Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership and my graduate degree from the Bauer College of Business, and that education has laid the foundation for my career.”
Steve Goodman (B.S. ’83, M.S. ’85)
Steve Goodman (B.S. ’83, M.S. ’85)
“The Centennial is a major milestone,” Goodman added. “The administration is putting a lot of thought and energy into making it a meaningful, game-changing celebration. Supporting UH and Bauer is our way of giving back to a place we truly care about.”
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