Connecticut College notable alumni have made significant marks across journalism, academia, literature, and public policy, reflecting the liberal arts institution's emphasis on critical thinking, writing, and global engagement. Located in New London, Connecticut, this private college founded in 1911 has produced around 46 distinguished graduates, as noted in comprehensive rankings from educational databases. These notable alumni from Connecticut College exemplify the school's impact in shaping influential leaders who tackle complex societal issues.
The journalism category stands out prominently among famous graduates of Connecticut College. Joshua Green ('94), a senior national correspondent at Bloomberg Businessweek, has authored bestsellers on American politics, offering deep insights into presidential campaigns. Jazmine Hughes ('12) serves as a story editor at The New York Times Magazine, while Elizabeth Peer ('57) broke barriers as Newsweek's first female foreign bureau chief. A.B. Stoddard ('89), associate editor at The Hill, provides sharp political commentary. These figures highlight how Connecticut College hones communication skills essential for media careers, influencing public discourse on national and international stages.
In academia, Cynthia Enloe ('60), a research professor at Clark University, pioneers work in international relations and women's studies, authoring influential books on gender and militarism. Edward Burger ('85), a mathematics professor at Williams College, advances educational innovation through dynamic teaching methods. Poet Laureate Michael Collier ('76) of Maryland directs the Bread Loaf Writers' Conference, fostering literary talent. Such achievements underscore the college's role in nurturing intellectual breakthroughs with real-world implications, from policy reform to cultural enrichment.
Unique aspects include the alumni network's diversity, spanning socialites like Nan Kempner ('52), a Vogue contributor, to policy experts like Martha Chen at Harvard Kennedy School. This breadth demonstrates Connecticut College's preparation for multifaceted careers. For more, visit the official notable alumni page or Wikipedia list. Considering a career here? Check higher ed jobs in New London or rate my professor reviews for faculty insights. Parents and job seekers will appreciate how these successes signal strong post-graduation outcomes, with alumni driving change globally.
Connecticut College notable alumni shine across diverse fields, from Hollywood screens to state capitols, showcasing the liberal arts power of this New London gem. Famous graduates of Connecticut College (ConnColl) embody creativity, leadership, and grit, inspiring current students eyeing Rate My Professor reviews or higher ed jobs nearby. Explore standout categories below, packed with entertaining facts on top figures—check detailed lists like entertainment figures, politics, and more. For academic jobs in New London or Connecticut, see faculty positions.
ConnColl's entertainment alumni bring drama from campus stages to global spotlights, blending acting prowess with real-world hustle.
Notable alumni from Connecticut College lead with policy savvy, turning classroom debates into gubernatorial wins.
No billionaires minted here yet, but ConnColl grads build empires and venture fortunes, exemplifying entrepreneurial spirit.
Athletes from this Division III powerhouse excel post-field, blending team spirit with pro commentary.
These Connecticut College celebrities highlight pathways to stardom; dive deeper via the official alumni page. Aspiring leaders, polish your resume with our free resume template for New London opportunities.
Discovering the stories behind Connecticut College notable alumni reveals a tapestry of remarkable achievements that inspire current students and job seekers alike. Nestled in New London, Connecticut, this liberal arts gem has produced trailblazers who turned their education into global impact. Take Michael Collier ('76), who served as Poet Laureate of Maryland from 2001-2004 and now directs the prestigious Bread Loaf Writers' Conference at Middlebury College. His journey from ConnColl's English program to poetic heights shows how the college nurtures creative voices.
Journalism shines brightly too, with Joshua Green ('94), a senior national correspondent at Bloomberg Businessweek and Boston Globe columnist, dissecting politics and business with sharp insight. Jazmine Hughes ('12), a story editor at The New York Times Magazine, embodies the bold storytelling ethos fostered at Connecticut College. Earlier icons like Elizabeth Peer ('57), Newsweek's first female foreign bureau chief, broke barriers in a male-dominated field, proving ConnColl's early commitment to empowering women in media.
Socialite and Vogue editor Nan Kempner ('52) brought high fashion flair, while academics like Cynthia Enloe ('60), a research professor at Clark University specializing in international relations and women's studies, highlight the college's intellectual rigor. Recent standout Aditi Juneja ('12) co-founded the Resistance Manual after NYU Law, tackling housing equity as a New York State fellow. These famous graduates of Connecticut College span industries, from media to academia. Explore more on Connecticut College's official notable alumni page or check politics alumni for influencers.
For aspiring professionals, rating professors via Rate My Professor can guide your path, much like these alumni. Job seekers in New London might find opportunities in academic jobs in New London or broader higher ed jobs. With such entertaining insights into alumni breakthroughs, Connecticut College proves it's a launchpad for influential leaders.
Exploring Connecticut College notable alumni reveals a legacy of impactful achievements that inspire students, faculty, staff, parents, and job seekers worldwide. This liberal arts college in New London, Connecticut, fosters versatile leaders through its rigorous academics and close-knit community. Our star ratings (out of 5) evaluate alumni success across key categories, drawing from verified graduates and attendees like actress Claire Danes and NASA leader Lori Garver. These ratings reflect prominence, influence, and recent trends over the past decade, based on trusted sources such as the university's records and US News profiles. Ratings help you gauge potential career trajectories—high scores signal strong networks in those fields.
Standout Connecticut College celebrities include Claire Danes (attended 1986-87), star of Homeland and My So-Called Life, earning Emmys and Golden Globes. This category shines due to ConnColl's performing arts emphasis, producing talents in TV and film. Advice: Audition for campus theater, intern in NYC media hubs nearby, and check Rate My Professor for Connecticut College theater professors to build skills.
View Entertainment AlumniWhile Division III powerhouse in sailing and rowing (NESCAC champs), famous graduates of Connecticut College in pro sports are rarer. Alumni like rowers compete Olympically post-grad. Tip: Join varsity teams for leadership; translates to jobs in coaching or sports management via higher ed jobs.
Connecticut College influential leaders excel here: Lori Garver (BA 1980, NASA Deputy Administrator), Liz Shuler (BA 1988, AFL-CIO President). Recent alumni advise policymakers. Pursue: Model UN, internships in DC; rate poli sci faculty on Rate My Professor for Connecticut College.
View Politics AlumniNo billionaire Connecticut College billionaires noted, but business alumni lead nonprofits and firms. Focus: Entrepreneurship courses, connect via alumni network.
None prominent, underscoring ethical training.
No Connecticut College Nobel winners, but science alumni publish breakthroughs. Aim high with research abroad programs.
Overall, ConnColl alumni thrive in public service and arts (average 3.2/5), per 5-10 year trends. Advice for success: Network on the official alumni site, seek higher ed career advice, explore academic jobs in New London, Connecticut, and rate inspiring professors at Rate My Professor for Connecticut College. These paths prove small colleges yield big impacts—start building yours today!
Connecticut College alumni have excelled in entertainment categories including actors, musicians, and composers, bringing creativity and innovation to film, television, theater, and music stages worldwide with acclaimed performances and contributions.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meg Ryan | Actress | Journalism | 1979-1981 | Renowned actress celebrated for iconic roles in romantic comedies such as When Harry Met Sally (1989) and Sleepless in Seattle (1993), earning multiple Golden Globe nominations. |
| Lynn Ahrens | Lyricist and Composer | Anthropology | 1969 | Award-winning lyricist and composer known for her work on Broadway musicals like Ragtime and Once on This Island, earning two Tony Awards and Academy Award nominations. |
| David Basche | Actor | Theater Arts | 1987 | Versatile television and film actor recognized for roles in Ugly Betty, The Starter Wife, and The Other Woman. |
| Gretchen Egolf | Actress | English | 1993 | Acclaimed actress best known for portraying Helen Girardi in the CBS series Joan of Arcadia and appearances in Law & Order: Criminal Intent. |
Connecticut College alumni have excelled in U.S. politics, particularly in state government and policy advising, shaping Connecticut's leadership and national discourse; categories include U.S., with emerging roles in international relations but no notable royalty or nobility.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Susan Bysiewicz | Lieutenant Governor of Connecticut | Government | 1983 | Long-serving Connecticut politician who held the office of Secretary of the State from 1999 to 2011 before becoming Lieutenant Governor in 2019, advocating for voting rights and women's issues. |
| Jonathan Steinberg | Commissioner of Revenue Services for Connecticut | 1983 | Appointed by Governor Ned Lamont to oversee Connecticut's Department of Revenue Services, managing tax policy and administration for the state. | |
| Alexandra A. Kazakis | Chief of Staff to U.S. Senator Chris Murphy | Government and International Relations | 2003 | Serves as Chief of Staff to Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT), playing a key role in legislative strategy on gun violence prevention and foreign policy. |
| Oren Cass | Founder and CEO of American Compass | Philosophy | 2002 | Conservative policy expert and former domestic policy director for Mitt Romney's presidential campaign, advocating for family-focused economic reforms. |
