College of the Holy Cross, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a prestigious liberal arts institution with a rich history dating back to 1843. As one of the oldest Catholic colleges in the United States, Holy Cross has cultivated a legacy of academic excellence and service, producing alumni who have made significant contributions across diverse fields such as politics, academia, science, and business. Its graduates are known for their leadership, intellectual rigor, and commitment to social justice, impacting communities both locally and globally.
Notable Alumni:
- Anthony Fauci - Renowned immunologist and director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, key figure in public health.
- Clarence Thomas - Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, influential in shaping American legal precedents.
- Edward P. Jones - Pulitzer Prize-winning author of "The Known World," celebrated for his contributions to American literature.
- Thomas L. Phillips - Former CEO of Raytheon, a leader in defense and aerospace technology innovation.
- Mary Pat Christie - Former First Lady of New Jersey, advocate for community service and disaster recovery initiatives.
- Peter H. Reynolds - Award-winning author and illustrator of children’s books, inspiring creativity in young readers worldwide.
- John B. Anderson - Former U.S. Congressman and independent presidential candidate in 1980, known for political reform advocacy.
- Ann Dowd - Acclaimed actress known for roles in "The Handmaid’s Tale," earning multiple Emmy Awards.
- Joseph E. Murray - Nobel Prize-winning surgeon for pioneering organ transplantation, revolutionizing modern medicine.
- William J. McDonough - Former President of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, influential in economic policy.
- Ellen S. Miller - Co-founder of the Center for Responsive Politics, championing transparency in government funding.
- James E. Burke - Former CEO of Johnson & Johnson, credited with ethical leadership during the Tylenol crisis.
Famous People Who Attended College of the Holy Cross:
- Chris Matthews - Political commentator and host of MSNBC’s "Hardball," known for sharp political analysis.
- Bob Cousy - NBA Hall of Famer and Boston Celtics legend, iconic basketball point guard.
- Jack Shields - Professional baseball player, notable for his contributions to the sport in the early 20th century.
- Neil Hopkins - Actor known for roles in "Lost" and "The Mentalist," a familiar face on television.
- Kevin O’Connor - Host of PBS’s "This Old House," expert in home renovation and design.
The alumni of College of the Holy Cross have left an indelible mark on the world, from shaping public health policies and judicial decisions to inspiring through literature, sports, and entertainment. Their influence extends from local communities in Massachusetts to global platforms, embodying the college’s mission of "men and women for others." While this list highlights some prominent figures, many more Holy Cross graduates contribute meaningfully in less publicized ways. For a comprehensive list of alumni, visit the official Holy Cross website at www.holycross.edu for verified and updated information.
