Bill Vodra: Supporting a school that makes a difference

Bill Vodra 65, a self-described “townie,” lived at home during his four years as a Scot, which created “a peculiar college existence.”

“But the upside was the greatest academic education one could hope for,” he says. “There were no distractions.”

His courses were memorable. Helen Kaslo Osgood sparked Vodra's lifelong interest in American history. Hans Jenny's theoretical knowledge of economics was complemented by a practical ability to fire pieces of chalk at students whose attention had wandered without breaking the rhythm of his lecture. Jenny emphasized that economics was originally called political economy because it was inextricably linked with social issues, like the concentration or redistribution of wealth. Jenny often cited Thurman Arnold's dictum that “every economic fact is first and foremost a legal fiction.”

Vodra's interest in politics found an outlet in the Congressional Club. During the group's annual trips to Washington, D.C., he had a chance to interview such national political figures as Robert Kennedy, Pierre Salinger, and Ted Sorensen. Garber Drushal (speech and political science, College president from 1967-77) coached his debate team and helped steer Vodra to law.

After receiving a law degree from Columbia University in 1968, Vodra found his way to Washington and a job in the Department of Justice. He moved to the Food and Drug Administration in 1974 as associate chief counsel. He later joined the law firm Arnold & Porter LLP, whose founder was none other than Thurman Arnold. He's worked there the last twenty-six years, specializing in regulatory issues involving the safety, effectiveness, and marketing of medical products.

Vodra is supporting the renovation of Kauke with his campaign gift “because that's where it's needed most.”

He has seen many changes in the College over the years. But the fundamental things remain. “Wooster is still one of those schools that can make a difference in someone's life. Anyone who does I.S. is prepared to do anything. It's an incredible asset.”