Goodell shared this principle as one of the key lessons from his career, also honoring his late father, former U.S. Senator Charles E. Goodell of New York. His father was one of the first members of Congress to publicly oppose the Vietnam War, which earned him a spot on Richard Nixon's 'enemies list' and effectively ended his political career. Goodell spoke of his father's example as proof that speaking up and doing what's right — even when deeply uncomfortable — matters more than protecting your position. He accepted an honorary doctorate at the ceremony in his father's name, saying the world needed to hear the story of a man who encouraged others to speak up for what they believe in.