Dublin-Worthington News Stories

Friday, October 8, 2021
By: Paul J. Cynkar

Advancing the Leadership Mindset 
Finding Success in the Success of Others 

This is another in a series of member profiles based on discovery interview questions that were designed to get an up close view of the traits and strengths of some of the members who provide leadership and inspiration to this organization. 

Membership Spotlight:  Rich Goldberg 
Aspiring Writer, Responsible, Relationships with Respect 

 

Tell us about yourself.  Give us three facts that include information about your family, your career and your pastimes. 
 
I have been married to my wife, Ellen, for 38 years; we met first year as law students at OSU.  We have two wonderful adult boys.  One lives in Brooklyn and the other lives in Columbus.  Both of them are product managers and both are adventure seekers.  I earned my undergraduate degree from Rutgers and spent my junior year as an exchange student in southern Germany.  After graduating from OSU Law School, I eventually became a law partner with Scott Scriven LLP.  The firm specializes in employment law and I specialize in worker’s comp defense.  I enjoy playing golf, I love to travel, and I am a Revolutionary War buff.  I started running 45 years ago and have been exceptionally lucky to be able to continue. I’ve done two marathons and thirteen half marathons, the most recent, two years ago. 

How long have you belonged to Rotary?  What’s the best thing about membership? 

I joined Rotary in 2005 at the urging of my former law partner Bill Wahoff.  I like the combination of camaraderie and community service. 

As you look back on your life and your career, where and when did you have the biggest impact on others?  Who was impacted and how?  

I have always tried to help employers do things the right way.  I am proud I have mentored a number of law students and interns and I have served as a Moot Court judge.  I am pleased to share the wisdom I have gained over my career.  I always emphasize law is a profession, not a business. 

As you look back, which of the opportunities you’ve had has been the most fulfilling to you personally?  Why? 
 
My term as president of the Dublin-Worthington Rotary stands out as something very fulfilling.  I actually served almost two terms, one as an unofficial co-president with BJ Stone, and then followed that with a full year term. We had to find ways to raise money while emphasizing community service.  I counted on many others and felt I was able to inspire others to help us right the ship. 

Describe the most challenging project you’ve ever worked on.  What was your role?  What was the result?  What did you learn? 
 
I had a legal case that involved an allegation of a sexual assault that was experienced by a school employee on school grounds. During my investigation I came to the conclusion the incident had been staged. After two very lengthy hearings before the Industrial Commission, the claim was disallowed.   

What are some things you are passionate about?  What really excites you? What gets your adrenalin flowing?  What makes your heart sing?  

I want to make sure my children have the right values and work ethic.  Growing up, I watched my parents treat everyone with respect.  It is important we give people opportunities to succeed.  I am also passionate about travel. The most memorable trip I have taken was driving with my two sons across and hiking throughout the North and South Island of New Zealand. Also, our family trips to the Rotary International Conference in Montreal and Lisbon were great adventures. 

What are you especially skilled at?  What is something that others often tell you that they think makes you stand out? 
 
My writing and advocacy have always been recognized as strengths.  People tell me my attention to detail is another of my skills. In addition, I have an ability to deal with complex problems and find reasonable solutions.   

When you have a moment to sit back and think (dream) about your future, what do you think about?  What things would you like to do in your life that you haven’t gotten around to yet?  Is there something else you would like to accomplish? 
 
My wife has been threatening to send me to the Iowa Writers’ Workshop. I also look forward to joining her in additional volunteer activities including an extended stay volunteering at a national park.  

If you could choose anyone (alive or deceased) to have lunch with, who would it be? Why? 
 
I would like to have lunch with Alexander Hamilton.  I have read a number of books about him.  I have seen the show twice.  Hamilton only lived to 49 years old but in that short time he was able to impress people and make a big impact.  Among other things, he was responsible for our financial system and the structure of our federal government. 

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