Julia C. Rodil was a bright and caring third-year student in the Health Psychology PhD program at Old Dominion University who tragically passed away in February 2021. Julie received her BS in Psychological Sciences from the College of William & Mary in 2018 and her Master’s posthumously in Spring 2021 from Old Dominion University after having defended her thesis in December 2020. Julie made significant contributions to our understanding of development among adolescents and emerging adults of racial/ethnic minority groups. Beyond her academic contribution, Julie was a mentor to the undergraduate and graduate students within the TARDIS lab, a friend, a partner, a sister, a daughter, and so much more. The world has lost a bright young scholar and an amazing and caring person.
In addition to her passion for anti-racism, Julie dedicated her time to volunteering for the non-profit organization ForKids, which supports families and children living in poverty and homelessness across Southeastern Virginia. To further honor her memory, we will host an Adopt a Family Drive annually during the spring semester. The purpose of the drive is to collect monetary or material donations for families who are entering the ForKids re-housing program to get off to a fresh start in their new homes.
The Adopt a Family drive for Spring 2026 will be held from January 21st until March 13th. Physical drop-off donations can be made at the psychology office in Mills Godwin Life Sciences Building Room 250.
Supplies in need that can be donated include:
- Paper Towels
- Toilet Paper
- Multipurpose Cleaner
- Bleach
- Dish Soap
- Dishwasher Detergent
- Laundry Pods
- Disinfectant Wipes/Spray
- Sponges
- Tall Kitchen Trash Bags
- Air Freshener
- Toilet Bowl Cleaner
- Broom & Dustpan
- Mops/Swiffers
- Gloves
- Dish Towels
- Full-Size Bath Towels
- Wash Cloths
- Laundry Basket
- Air Mattress & Electric Pumps (Twin and Queen)
- Sheet Sets (Twin and Queen)
- Bed Size Blankets (Twin and Queen)
- Bed Pillows
- Pots and Pans
- Cups/Glassware
- Dish Sets
- Cutlery & Cooking Utensils
- Manual Can Openers
- Body Wash
- Shampoo & Conditioner
- Feminine Hygiene Products
Monetary donations can be made through Venmo, to HPSA member Emily Renzoni (@Emily-Renzoni via Venmo). Monetary donations will be used to purchase supplies. You may also email her at erenz001@odu.edu.
Previous Drives
