“We have a desire to support the younger generation. There are a lot of people who can’t go to a higher level of education because of funding. The future of Northeastern and the country is on the next generation coming up and what they can do,” says Bob Maddock, E‘72. “We meet with the recipients of my mom and dad’s scholarships, and we are always impressed. The kids are talented, sharp, courteous, and positive.”
Northeastern is home to a unique group of families known as multi-generational Northeastern families. These families, spanning multiple generations, are a true testament to the power of family bonds and the importance of Northeastern creating a sense of community and belonging that is truly special. Maddock’s father, Tom Maddock, graduated from Northeastern in 1942 with a chemical engineering degree. Following in his father’s footsteps, Maddock also enrolled at Northeastern to pursue chemical engineering and graduated in 1972. Their family’s multi-generational connection continues as Maddock’s grandniece, Katherine Hall, is graduating from Northeastern in May of 2023.
One of the aspects of Northeastern that Maddock highlights is his love for the university’s Co-op program. When applying for colleges, he knew he wanted to go to Northeastern for this reason. With his father having attended Northeastern and his own enthusiasm for enrolling in a co-op school, he was eager to explore his options. I think it’s amazing for what it provides you, learning what work you want to do and the type of company you want to be with,” says Maddock. In total, he completed four Co-ops during his time at Northeastern, including a Co-op at Rohm and Haas which is a manufacturer of specialty chemicals for end use markets such as building and construction, electronic devices, packaging, etc.” he says. “Grab it with both hands, it’s important.”
As a way to give back to Northeastern, Maddock and Loretta have established three scholarships for graduates in chemical engineering and the expansion of learning competencies. They enjoy getting to meet the scholarship recipients and feel that it’s rewarding to be able to give back and help the students. “We get letters from the kids that receive the scholarships, and they make our day, hearing about how important and the impact it had on them and their families, makes it all worth it,” Maddock says.
The Maddocks continue to stay involved with the Northeastern community. In February of 2023, they met with the Dean of the College of Engineering and the Dean of Bouvé College of Health Sciences to discuss different programs. They also have an active program with Bouvé that studies the impact of COVID-19 on learning experiences. Northeastern has provided them with the opportunity to speak with professors and attend classes during their visits to remain close to the students. The Maddocks are looking forward to attending this year’s May 2023 Commencement and Golden Graduates celebrations to watch their grandniece graduate.
We want to encourage students looking for schools that Northeastern is a great school to go to.”
Bob Maddock, E‘72