Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) notable alumni have made meaningful contributions across diverse fields, reflecting the institution's commitment to practical education and public service. As Connecticut's oldest publicly funded university, founded in 1849, CCSU boasts around 36 notable graduates according to EduRank, with strengths in education, government, business, and the arts. These famous graduates of Central Connecticut State University exemplify the university's focus on developing leaders who impact their communities and beyond.
In politics, alumni like John B. Larson, a long-serving U.S. Congressman representing Connecticut's 1st district since 1999, highlight CCSU's influence in public service (see politics alumni). Government figures such as Fran P. Mainella, former Director of the National Park Service, and Charles B. Perry, a former Connecticut state senator, demonstrate the school's role in shaping policy makers. Business and education leaders, including those featured on the official CCSU alumni page, drive innovation and instruction in Connecticut and nationally.
Sports figures shine through the CCSU Athletics Hall of Fame, with inductees like the Class of 2025 celebrating student-athletes and teams who excelled in Division I competition. This athletic legacy underscores CCSU's holistic approach, blending academics with extracurricular excellence. While CCSU lacks Nobel laureates or billionaires, its alumni network offers real-world implications for students and job seekers—strong connections in New Britain, Connecticut higher ed jobs, and public sector roles.
Prospective students can explore professor insights via Rate My Professor for CCSU, aiding course choices that lead to influential careers. Job seekers might find opportunities in higher ed jobs or administration jobs inspired by these paths. The alumni impact fosters a supportive environment, with over 96% Connecticut residents among 8,898 students (Spring 2022 data), emphasizing local leadership. For career advice, check higher ed career advice. This network positions CCSU graduates for steady, impactful success rather than fleeting fame.
Discover the impressive lineup of Central Connecticut State University notable alumni, particularly shining in politics and sports where famous graduates of Central Connecticut State University have left indelible marks. While CCSU (Central Connecticut State University) doesn't claim U.S. presidents, Hollywood actors, or billionaires among its ranks, its influential leaders and athletes showcase the power of a CCSU education. From shaping state policy to dominating professional leagues, these trailblazers entertain and inspire. Dive into top categories with entertaining facts on standout figures—check detailed lists in politics or sports figures sections. For aspiring students and job seekers eyeing opportunities near New Britain, Connecticut, see professor insights on Rate My Professor or browse higher ed jobs in the area via New Britain.
CCSU politics alumni have risen to govern and represent Connecticut with tenacity and vision, proving public service runs deep in Blue Devil blood.
Athletics is CCSU's claim to fame, birthing pros who thrilled fans with highlight-reel plays and unexpected twists.
These notable alumni from Central Connecticut State University highlight breakthroughs in leadership and athletics. Parents and faculty can connect via the CCSU Alumni Association. Job seekers, leverage higher ed career advice and check Rate My Professor for CCSU faculty ratings before applying to higher ed jobs in Connecticut.
Discovering the stories behind Central Connecticut State University notable alumni reveals a tapestry of determination and success that inspires students and job seekers alike. While CCSU (Central Connecticut State University) may not boast Hollywood superstars or billionaire moguls, its graduates have left indelible marks in politics, sports, and literature, proving that Blue Devil grit translates to real-world triumphs.
Take John B. Larson, a CCSU alumnus who earned his B.A. in education in 1970. As the U.S. Representative for Connecticut's 1st Congressional District since 1999, Larson has championed education reform and economic development, serving as chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. His journey from CCSU classrooms to the halls of Congress exemplifies how the university's emphasis on public service propels alumni into influential roles (see politics alumni).
In sports, Charles Nagy stands out as one of the famous graduates of Central Connecticut State University. Graduating with a B.S. in business administration in 1988, Nagy became a Major League Baseball All-Star pitcher for the Cleveland Indians, clinching the American League Cy Young Award in 1996 with a stellar 16-10 record and 2.95 ERA. His post-career role as a pitching coach underscores CCSU's strong athletics legacy, fostering talents who excel professionally (view sports figures).
Literary talent shines through Lynne Rae Perkins, a Newbery Medal winner for her novel Criss Cross in 2006. Perkins, a CCSU graduate, crafts heartfelt stories for young readers, drawing from her education in art and English to create works celebrated worldwide. These achievements highlight how CCSU nurtures creativity and resilience.
Prospective students pondering CCSU can draw motivation from these paths, while job seekers might explore faculty insights via Rate My Professor for Central Connecticut State University or browse higher ed jobs nearby. For more stories, visit the CCSU Alumni Association. Parents and staff appreciate the university's role in launching such impactful careers in New Britain, Connecticut. Whether in public service or diamond fields, these alumni remind us that CCSU equips graduates for extraordinary lives.
Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) alumni have carved out impressive paths in various fields, showcasing the value of a solid education from this respected public university in New Britain, Connecticut. We've rated key categories of alumni achievements on a scale of 1-10 using star symbols, based on verified notable graduates from trusted sources like the university's official site and alumni records. These ratings reflect the prominence and impact of CCSU famous graduates, providing inspiration for students, faculty, staff, parents, and job seekers eyeing opportunities at CCSU. Low ratings in some areas highlight room for future trailblazers—your generation could elevate them!
Sports Figures: ✭✭✭✭✭✭✭☆☆☆ (7/10) CCSU boasts strong athletic alumni, including NFL players like Jeff Bentley and basketball coach Howie Dickenman, who played and coached here before leading UConn. These successes demonstrate how CCSU's sports programs build discipline and teamwork. Advice: Join Blue Devil athletics or intramurals to network and develop leadership skills that translate to higher ed jobs in coaching or administration. View sports alumni.
Politics: ✭✭✭✭✭☆☆☆☆☆ (5/10) Alumni like State Senator Kevin Witkos have served Connecticut effectively. This mid-range rating shows steady influence in public service. Tip: Engage in CCSU's political science clubs or student government to launch a career in policy—check academic jobs in New Britain for local opportunities.
Business Leaders: ✭✭✭✭☆☆☆☆☆☆ (4/10) Executives such as Anthony J. Arduini (CEO, Konica Minolta) highlight business acumen fostered at CCSU. Build your resume with internships via the career center. Explore higher ed career advice and rate my professor reviews for CCSU to choose courses that sharpen entrepreneurial skills.
Entertainment Figures: ✭✭☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ (2/10) Fewer household names here, but emerging talents exist. Aspiring artists, leverage CCSU's media programs.
Nobel Laureates & Billionaires: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ (0/10) None verified yet, but that's your chance to shine globally! Focus on research breakthroughs.
Overall, CCSU's alumni network inspires through real-world impact rather than flash. Visit the CCSU Alumni Association to connect. Students: Use scholarships and professor ratings on Rate My Professor to excel. Job seekers: Target faculty jobs or Connecticut academic jobs. Parents: These ratings show CCSU prepares graduates for meaningful success. With dedication, you can boost these stars—start today!
Central Connecticut State University alumni have excelled in entertainment areas including actors, musicians, composers, gamers, and chess masters, bringing creativity and innovation to stages, screens, and competitive arenas across the United States. Their achievements highlight the university's role in nurturing talent that influences popular culture and entertainment industries.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jon McLaughlin | Singer-songwriter | Music | 2002 | American recording artist known for piano-driven pop-rock music and charting singles like 'So Close' from the Disney film Enchanted. |
| Bill Scheft | Author and television writer | English | 1983 | Humorist who served as head writer for Late Show with David Letterman and authored several books including Lush Life. |
| Lou Carson | Radio announcer | unknown | Noted broadcaster and radio personality recognized for his contributions to Connecticut radio. |
Athletes and coaches from Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) have contributed to professional sports, particularly in football, baseball, and basketball, showcasing the impact of the university's NCAA Division I programs in the Northeast Conference on developing competitive talent for higher levels of competition.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Frantz | Professional football quarterback | 2001 | Former quarterback who played for the Buffalo Bills in the NFL and the Frankfurt Galaxy in NFL Europe. | |
| Steve Donohue | College baseball coach | 1985 | Longtime head baseball coach at Rutgers University, leading the Scarlet Knights in NCAA Division I competition. | |
| Will Davis II | Professional basketball player | 2009-2013 | Power forward drafted 34th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2013 NBA Draft, later playing professionally overseas. |
Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) alumni have made significant contributions to U.S. politics at local, state, and federal levels, including roles in Congress, state comptroller, and local government. Categories include U.S. politicians, with impacts in public service, policy-making, and community leadership.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Larson | U.S. Representative | 1971 | Long-serving U.S. Congressman for Connecticut's 1st district since 1999, known for leadership in energy policy and economic development. | |
| Kevin Lembo | Connecticut State Comptroller | Accounting | 1986 | Former Connecticut State Comptroller who served from 2011 to 2023, advocating for fiscal transparency and public health initiatives. |
| Evie Cowell | Connecticut State Representative | unknown | First woman elected to the Connecticut General Assembly from New Britain, serving in the mid-20th century and advancing local representation. | |
| Donnie Anderson | Commissioner of Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection | unknown | Appointed commissioner overseeing public safety and emergency management in Connecticut. | |
| James T. Shanley | Mayor of New Britain | unknown | Served as mayor of New Britain, contributing to local governance and community development. | |
| Michael D'Agostino | Connecticut State Senator | unknown | Former Connecticut State Senator representing the 19th district, focused on education and public safety issues. |
