Programs and More

Travel abroad makes a big impression

Donor gifts fund study-abroad program, inspiring student-athletes like Football’s Rome Odunze.

It’s becoming a familiar sight: Rome Odunze catching touchdown passes in spectacular ways on the Football field. But when he “opened his heart” to the unfamiliar, he found new meaning in life.

Rome was one of 12 Husky student-athletes who traveled to Italy for a life-changing journey. Rome, a junior and a Football player, shares, “It opened me up to experiencing a different culture and adapting to a new way of living. The appreciation I have for playing Football was magnified and became the biggest takeaway.”

Rome further expresses, “I am truly grateful. Opening people’s minds to find deeper meaning and achieve more unity in the world is just what we need.”

When asked about his favorite memories, Rome recalls cruising around the city on scooters, “Seeing the Colosseum lit up at night is phenomenal; I’ll never forget that.” He was also mesmerized by the historical landmarks and architecture that were part of the program.

In addition to the vast history of the city, one of Rome’s favorite memories was the food. “I ate pasta and pizza every day; there was a gelato place right outside our residence that was sensational,” Rome shares with a beaming smile. “The food was fantastic; whatever stereotypes there are around food and Italian culture, they’re all true.”

The wide receiver advises future study-abroad students to open themselves up to unfamiliar experiences so they can understand themselves and the world from a broader perspective.

Kim Durand, who leads academic services for student-athletes, applauds donors who step up to fund such mind-opening experiences for young men and women.

“The study-abroad program is completely underwritten by donor gifts,” Kim explains. “The uniqueness of our donors is that they really want their gifts to make an impact. I believe in this program; it has the ability to be life-changing.”

UW student-athletes at various historic sites in Rome, Italy

RECOMMENDED STORIES

Student-Athletes

A league of his own

Humble catcher from California wins with heart and hustle Recognized at Washington for his acrobatic plays and hot bat, catcher Johnny Tincher has come to earn the respect of teammates, coaches and fans. However, there is one fan in particular...


Read Story

Coach's Letter

Starving for greatness

By Kalen DeBoer Head Coach, Washington Football As my second season with Washington begins, I want to share my sincere appreciation for you — our loyal fans and donors. Thank you for welcoming me and my entire staff into the...


Read Story

Student-Athletes

“Do it for the person next to you”

Husky gymnastics leader inspires young Black female athletes As part of the 9% of Division I gymnasts who identify as Black, Amara Cunningham uses her unique position to encourage others. “Gymnastics is a predominantly white sport,” explains Amara. “Inspiring young...


Read Story

Alumni

Empowering the women of Washington

A UW Women’s Golf alum pays forward her formative Husky experience With her roots in Portland, Oregon, and a family full of Ducks, Big W Club member and Women’s Golf alum Molly Boyle jokes that her parents wanted better for...


Read Story

Donors and Difference-Makers

Husky Giving Day is on April 6, 2023

One Day. 22 Teams. Big Impact. Husky Giving Day is your opportunity to make a difference for Washington student-athletes. Whether you support our greatest need through The Competitive Edge Fund or give to your favorite team or program, your generosity...


Read Story

Coaches and Staff

Conversation with Coach: Volleyball’s Leslie Gabriel

Former UW blocker Leslie Gabriel becomes Husky Volleyball’s newest Head Coach after dedicating 22 seasons on staff. The 2020 AVCA National Assistant Coach of the Year helped build Washington into a national powerhouse. During Leslie’s tenure, the Huskies have won...


Read Story

Student-Athletes

Husky student-athletes benefit from NIL opportunities

Name, image and likeness opens door to personal and professional growth Diagnosed with Marfan syndrome as a child, Langston Wilson was unable to play organized sports growing up. Years of pickup ball and perseverance paid off when he finally received...


Read Story

Programs and More

Title IX celebration brings together generations of Huskies

Honoring the past while supporting the future women of Washington This year marks the 50th anniversary of Title IX, a landmark legislation which changed the lives of women and girls and opened the doors to equity in education and sports....


Read Story

Programs and More

A bright beginning for the Dawgs and DeBoer

Under first-year Head Coach Kalen DeBoer, UW Football caps off a phenomenal 11-2 season with an Alamo Bowl win. It was a season marked by grit and guts. An explosive beginning — featuring an electric win over Michigan State —...


Read Story