Fordham University notable alumni represent a powerhouse network of over 183,500 graduates worldwide, showcasing the impact of this Jesuit institution founded in 1841 as the oldest Catholic university in the northeastern United States. Located across two vibrant New York City campuses—Rose Hill in the Bronx and Lincoln Center in Manhattan—Fordham fosters leaders who embody its motto, Deus Scientiarum Dominus Est (God is the Lord of All Knowledge), blending rigorous academics with ethical formation. This alumni legacy underscores the university's role in producing influential figures across diverse fields, offering inspiration and networking opportunities for current students, faculty, parents, and job seekers eyeing careers in higher education or beyond.
The importance of Fordham University famous graduates lies in their tangible contributions to society, from shaping global policy to entertaining millions. In politics, alumni like John O. Brennan, former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), highlight Fordham's pipeline to high-level government service. Entertainment boasts stars such as Denzel Washington, a two-time Academy Award-winning actor who graduated from Fordham College at Rose Hill in 1977, demonstrating how the university's drama program launches Hollywood icons. Sports legends include Vince Lombardi, the legendary NFL coach who earned his degree in 1937 and revolutionized professional football with his Green Bay Packers dynasty. Business and finance leaders further amplify this, with figures driving economic policy and innovation.
These notable alumni from Fordham University illustrate unique aspects like the institution's urban Jesuit edge, providing proximity to Wall Street, media hubs, and political centers in New York, which enhances internship and career pipelines. For instance, the alumni network supports job placements in competitive fields; explore opportunities via higher ed jobs or academic jobs in New York. Implications are profound: prospective students gain from mentorship programs, while job seekers can leverage connections for roles in academia or industry. Check faculty insights on Rate My Professor for Fordham to see the teaching excellence behind these successes. Trends show steady growth in alumni achievements, with recent honors via Fordham's Hall of Honor.
Dive into specific categories like entertainment figures, sports figures, or politics for detailed lists. This network not only boosts Fordham's prestige but equips graduates for global impact, making it a top choice for those pursuing meaningful careers—consider higher ed career advice and professor ratings at Rate My Professor for Fordham-specific guidance.
Fordham University notable alumni span diverse fields, from global leaders to Hollywood stars and business titans, showcasing the Jesuit institution's impact since its founding in 1841. These famous graduates from Fordham University highlight paths in politics, entertainment, and wealth creation, inspiring students eyeing higher-ed jobs or careers. Explore politics, entertainment figures, and millionaires and billionaires sections for full lists. Check Rate My Professor for Fordham faculty insights or higher ed jobs in New York.
Fordham has produced influential politicians, including a sitting African president and top U.S. intelligence officials, reflecting its strong public service tradition. Notable alumni from Fordham University in politics include CIA directors and attorneys general who shaped national policy.
Fordham University celebrities shine in Hollywood, with Oscar winners proving the value of its drama and journalism programs for storytelling careers.
See more in entertainment figures.
Fordham University billionaires exemplify entrepreneurial grit, from NFL owners to corporate CEOs steering Fortune 500 giants.
Discover full millionaires and billionaires list. For career tips, visit how to write a winning academic CV. Official lists at Fordham alumni on Wikipedia and Fordham Alumni page.
Fordham University notable alumni have left indelible marks across entertainment, sports, politics, and beyond, turning the Jesuit institution's rigorous education into real-world triumphs that inspire current students and job seekers alike. Imagine Denzel Washington, who earned his Bachelor of Arts from Fordham College at Rose Hill in 1977, channeling his drama studies into a career boasting two Oscars, a Tony, and roles in blockbusters like Training Day and Malcolm X. His journey from Bronx classrooms to Hollywood stardom highlights how Fordham's emphasis on ethical leadership and communication skills propels famous graduates of Fordham University into influential spots.
In sports, Vince Lombardi, the legendary NFL coach who studied at Fordham in the 1930s, coined the phrase "winning isn't everything; it's the only thing." As head coach of the Green Bay Packers, he secured five NFL championships, embodying the Rams' resilient spirit—Fordham's athletic nickname. These stories entertain while showing the power of Fordham networks for aspiring athletes eyeing higher ed jobs in coaching or administration.
Politics shines too with John O. Brennan, Fordham Law alum and former CIA Director (2013-2017), who navigated global intelligence challenges. Or consider the Hall of Honor inductees on Fordham's official site, celebrating lives that exemplify university ideals. For more star power, check entertainment figures among Fordham University celebrities. These achievements underscore why job seekers flock to academic jobs in New York, blending prestige with proximity to power centers.
Fun insight: Robert De Niro attended Fordham briefly before transferring, yet credits its foundation for his method acting mastery in films like The Godfather. Such tales fuel curiosity—did you know Fordham boasts over 183,500 alumni worldwide? Dive deeper via the Fordham Hall of Honor or Wikipedia's verified list. Before committing, rate Fordham professors to gauge teaching quality, and explore career advice for leveraging these connections. Fordham alumni breakthroughs prove the degree opens doors to billionaires, leaders, and icons.
These entertaining insights reveal Fordham's role in nurturing influential leaders from Fordham University, motivating you to pursue similar paths amid New York's vibrant scene.
Fordham University notable alumni have made significant impacts across various fields, inspiring current students, faculty, parents, and job seekers considering this Jesuit institution in New York City. These ratings evaluate alumni success in key categories on a 10-point scale using star symbols, drawing from verified lists like Wikipedia's comprehensive roster and Fordham's own Hall of Honor. Ratings reflect the prominence, number, and influence of famous graduates of Fordham University, such as Academy Award-winning actors and influential political leaders. For those eyeing higher ed jobs or academic careers, these achievements highlight Fordham's strong network—explore rate my professor reviews for Fordham University to find mentors who can guide you toward similar success.
✭✭✭✭✭✭✭✭✭☆ (9/10)
Fordham shines brightly here with stars like Denzel Washington (Class of 1977), a two-time Oscar winner known for films like Training Day, and magician David Copperfield, both confirmed Fordham alumni. This high rating underscores the university's drama and communications programs fostering Hollywood talent. Advice: Aspiring actors should join Fordham's theater groups and leverage alumni connections via the Fordham Hall of Honor for internships—check entertainment figures for more.
✭✭✭✭✭✭✭✭★★☆ (8/10)
Legendary coach Vince Lombardi (Class of 1937), architect of NFL dynasties, exemplifies Fordham's athletic legacy at its Rose Hill campus. Other notables include pro football alumni. Tip: Student-athletes can build resilience through Fordham's Division I sports, translating to leadership roles; see higher ed career advice on sports-to-business transitions.
✭✭✭✭✭✭✭✭✭☆ (9/10)
Fordham boasts over 20 politicians, including former CIA Director John O. Brennan and numerous judges and congressmembers, per Wikipedia. This reflects strong ethics and public service emphasis. Job seekers: Network at alumni events for New York academic jobs; view politics alumni.
✭✭✭✭✭✭✭★★★☆ (7/10)
While not billionaire-heavy, alumni like finance leaders contribute solidly. Advice: Use Fordham's business school for Wall Street paths; apply for scholarships to start.
✭█████████☆ (1/10) for Nobel; (2/10) for criminals (minimal verified cases).
No Nobel winners noted, but low crime rating speaks to character focus. Overall, these ratings inspire: Emulate alumni by excelling academically, interning early, and using Fordham professor ratings. For global job seekers, Fordham's 183,000+ alumni network (per official stats) offers doors worldwide—free resume templates can help polish your pitch.
Fordham University boasts a stellar lineup of alumni in entertainment, including actors, musicians, composers, gamers, and chess masters who have left indelible marks on film, music, theater, and performance arts through awards, blockbuster hits, and innovative contributions.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robert De Niro | Actor | attended 1961-1964 | Two-time Academy Award winner celebrated for iconic roles in Taxi Driver, Raging Bull (Best Actor Oscar), The Godfather Part II (Best Supporting Actor), and Goodfellas. | |
| Denzel Washington | Actor | Journalism | 1977 | Two-time Academy Award-winning actor renowned for powerful performances in Training Day (Best Actor Oscar), Malcolm X, Glory, and Fences (Tony Award on Broadway). |
| Lana Clarkson | Actress | 1983 | Known for roles in Barbarian Queen, Deathstalker, and appearances on TV shows like Three's Company. | |
| Victor Argo | Actor | unknown | Character actor in Martin Scorsese films like Taxi Driver, Mean Streets, and After Hours. | |
| Charlotte d'Amboise | Dancer, Actress | 1987 | Acclaimed Broadway performer in Cats, Damn Yankees, and Chicago, daughter of ballet star Jacques d'Amboise. | |
| Bill Conti | Composer | 1959 | Three-time Academy Award-nominated composer of film scores for Rocky (Oscar win), The Right Stuff, and For Your Eyes Only. | |
| Chris Baio | Musician | Economics | 2007 | Bassist for indie rock band Vampire Weekend and solo artist as Baio, contributing to Grammy-nominated albums. |
| John Frusciante | Musician | unknown | Influential guitarist for Red Hot Chili Peppers on albums like Blood Sugar Sex Magik and Californication, known for experimental solo work. | |
| Taylor Schilling | Actress | 2006 | Emmy-nominated star of Netflix's Orange Is the New Black as Piper Chapman, also appearing in Atlas Shrugged and Mercy. | |
| David Copperfield | Illusionist | unknown | World-famous magician holding multiple Guinness World Records for television specials and illusions, captivating global audiences for decades. |
Fordham University has a storied athletic history, particularly renowned for its football program's 'Seven Blocks of Granite' in the 1930s, producing professional athletes, Hall of Famers, and influential coaches in football, baseball, basketball, and beyond. These alumni exemplify excellence in Athletes categories, achieving championships, All-Pro selections, and executive leadership that elevated their sports.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tom Cannavino | NFL Player | 1949 | Defensive tackle who played professionally for the Los Angeles Dons and Baltimore Colts. | |
| Steve Andreassen | NFL Player | 1955 | Linebacker who played for the Baltimore Colts and won an NFL championship in 1958. | |
| Andy Cannizzaro | MLB Catcher | 1962 | Played five MLB seasons with the Yankees and Cardinals after starring at Fordham. | |
| Tim Locastro | MLB Outfielder | 2013 | Versatile utility player who has appeared in MLB for the New York Yankees, Oakland Athletics, and Detroit Tigers. | |
| George Young | NFL General Manager | 1952 | Architect of the New York Giants' revival as GM from 1978-1997, overseeing two Super Bowl wins. | |
| Digger Phelps | College Basketball Coach | 1965 | Prominent coach at Notre Dame who led the Fighting Irish to two Final Fours and 393 victories over 20 seasons. | |
| Johnny Druze | NFL Player | 1933 | Fordham All-American quarterback who played professionally for the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers. | |
| Jack Coombs | MLB Pitcher | 1906 | Dominant pitcher who won 158 MLB games including three World Series victories for the Philadelphia Athletics, later coached baseball at Fordham. | |
| Brian Cashman | MLB General Manager | Business Administration | 1986 | Longest-serving GM of the New York Yankees, overseeing six American League pennants and four World Series victories since 1998. |
| Ed Danowski | NFL Quarterback | 1934 | Fordham's star quarterback on the undefeated 'Seven Blocks of Granite' teams, later played professionally for the Chicago Bears and Brooklyn Dodgers. | |
| Ray Flaherty | NFL Player and Coach | 1926 | Innovative coach who guided the Washington Redskins to consecutive NFL championships in 1937-1938 and introduced the screen pass. | |
| Frankie Frisch | MLB Player and Manager | Engineering | 1919 | Baseball Hall of Famer known as the 'Fordham Flash' for his speed, played 19 MLB seasons, won four World Series as a player, and two as a manager. |
| Alex Wojciechowicz | NFL Player | 1938 | Pro Football Hall of Famer and two-time NFL champion with the Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles, renowned for his versatility at center and linebacker. | |
| Vince Lombardi | NFL Head Coach | Chemistry | 1937 | Legendary coach who led the Green Bay Packers to five NFL championships and the first two Super Bowls, establishing enduring standards of football discipline and success. |
| Joe Moore | NFL Player | 1934 | Key member of Fordham's famed 'Seven Blocks of Granite' offensive line, played guard for the New York Giants in the NFL. |
Fordham University boasts alumni who have excelled in U.S. politics, international diplomacy, and public service across categories including U.S. politicians, international figures, and though no royalty or nobility are prominently listed, their collective achievements have shaped legislation, governance, national security, and global relations.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joseph Crowley | U.S. Representative | Law | 1985 | Received his J.D. from Fordham Law School; represented New York's 14th congressional district from 1999 to 2019 and chaired the House Democratic Caucus. |
| Adrian A. Basora | U.S. Ambassador | International Relations | unknown | Fordham University alumnus and career diplomat; served as the first U.S. Ambassador to Croatia and later to Belarus. |
| Thomas P. Gill | U.S. Representative | 1948 | Fordham College graduate; served as U.S. Representative from Hawaii's at-large congressional district from 1965 to 1968. | |
| Alan Hevesi | New York State Comptroller | Political Science | 1962 | Earned B.A. from Fordham College; served as New York State Comptroller from 2003 to 2006 and New York City Comptroller from 1994 to 2001. |
| John J. Marchi | New York State Senator | Law | 1950 | Fordham Law School LL.B. recipient; served as New York State Senator for nearly 50 years from 1957 to 2006. |
| Guy V. Molinari | U.S. Representative and Staten Island Borough President | Law | 1960 | Earned his LL.B. from Fordham Law School; represented New York's 14th district in Congress from 1983 to 1989 and served as Borough President from 1990 to 2001. |
| Vito Fossella | U.S. Representative | Law | 1987 | Fordham Law School graduate; served as U.S. Representative for New York's 13th congressional district from 1997 to 2009. |
| Dannel Malloy | Governor of Connecticut | Law | 1978 | Earned his J.D. from Fordham University School of Law; served as the 88th Governor of Connecticut from 2011 to 2019. |
| John O. Brennan | Director of the Central Intelligence Agency | Political Science | 1977 | Graduated with a B.A. in political science; served as CIA Director from 2013 to 2017 and Acting Director of National Intelligence. |
| Donald Trump | 45th President of the United States | Economics | attended 1964-1966 | Attended Fordham University for two years before transferring to the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School; served as U.S. President from 2017 to 2021. |
Fordham University alumni have achieved extraordinary financial success in fields like investment management, real estate, and corporate leadership, often leveraging the university's strong business and economics programs to build empires and drive industry innovation. These trailblazers demonstrate the impact of Fordham's Jesuit education in fostering entrepreneurial spirit and strategic acumen across global markets.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mario Gabelli | Founder, Chairman, and CEO of GAMCO Investors | Economics | 1965 | Billionaire value investor and financial analyst renowned for managing billions in assets through his firm GAMCO Investors and frequent media commentary on markets. |
| Donald Trump | Real Estate Developer and 45th President of the United States | Business | Attended 1964-1966 | Non-graduate who built a multi-billion-dollar real estate portfolio with the Trump Organization before serving as U.S. President from 2017 to 2021. |
| Chris Kempczinski | President and CEO of McDonald's Corporation | Business Administration | 1999 | Dynamic executive steering McDonald's, the world's largest quick-service restaurant chain, with prior leadership roles at PepsiCo and extensive global strategy experience. |
| Madeline Bell | President and CEO of Children's Hospital of Philadelphia | Nursing | 1978 | Influential healthcare leader overseeing one of the nation's top pediatric hospitals, with a career advancing patient care and hospital management innovations. |
