Cal State Notable Alumni

California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA), located in the heart of Los Angeles, California, has a rich legacy of fostering talent and innovation since its founding in 1947. As a cornerstone of higher education in Southern California, Cal State LA has produced a diverse array of alumni who have made significant contributions across politics, academia, science, business, and entertainment. These graduates have not only shaped their respective fields but have also uplifted communities locally and globally through their leadership and creativity.

Notable Alumni:

• Maxine Waters - U.S. Congresswoman known for her advocacy on social justice and economic equity.
• Billie Jean King - Tennis legend and activist for gender equality in sports and beyond.
• Samuel T. Durrance - NASA astronaut and physicist who flew on Space Shuttle missions.
• Jaime Escalante - Renowned educator whose teaching inspired the film "Stand and Deliver."
• Edward James Olmos - Actor and director advocating for Latino representation in media.
• Art Torres - Former California State Senator and influential political leader in Latino communities.
• Octavia E. Butler - Acclaimed science fiction author known for groundbreaking works like "Kindred."
• Richard Alatorre - Pioneering Los Angeles City Council member and advocate for civil rights.
• Lucille Roybal-Allard - U.S. Representative championing healthcare and immigration reform policies.
• Harry Gamboa Jr. - Artist and writer, key figure in the Chicano art movement.
• Frank del Olmo - Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist for his coverage of Latino issues.
• Gloria Romero - Former California State Senator focused on education reform and equity.
• John B. Slaughter - Engineer and academic, first African American director of the NSF.
• Rosemary Casals - Professional tennis player and advocate for women’s sports equality.

Famous People Who Attended California State University, Los Angeles:

• Edward James Olmos - Award-winning actor and director known for "Battlestar Galactica."
• Billie Jean King - Iconic tennis champion and cultural influencer.
• Valerie Harper - Beloved actress from "The Mary Tyler Moore Show."
• Tomás Rivera - Celebrated author and poet of Chicano literature.
• Cheech Marin - Comedian and actor famous for Cheech & Chong.
• Fernando Valenzuela - Legendary MLB pitcher and cultural icon for Dodgers fans.
• Ruben Salazar - Influential journalist and voice for Chicano rights.

The impact of Cal State LA alumni resonates far beyond the campus, influencing policy, culture, and innovation on both local and global stages. From political leaders like Maxine Waters shaping national discourse to cultural icons like Edward James Olmos breaking barriers in Hollywood, these graduates embody the university’s commitment to diversity and excellence. Their contributions continue to inspire current students and strengthen the university’s reputation as a hub of transformative education. For more detailed biographies, visit the official Cal State LA alumni page at www.calstatela.edu/alumni. Note: While extensive efforts were made to verify alumni, some information may require further confirmation due to limited public records.