Iowa State University of Science and Technology, located in Ames, Iowa, has a storied legacy as a leading institution in science, engineering, and agriculture since its founding in 1858. Its alumni have made significant contributions across diverse fields such as politics, academia, science, and business, shaping innovations and policies that impact both local and global communities. From pioneering agricultural advancements to leading tech enterprises, Iowa State graduates continue to uphold the university's mission of creating, sharing, and applying knowledge for a better world.
Notable Alumni:
- George Washington Carver - Renowned agricultural scientist and inventor who promoted sustainable farming practices.
- John Vincent Atanasoff - Inventor of the first electronic digital computer, revolutionizing modern technology.
- Carrie Chapman Catt - Influential suffragist and women's rights advocate who helped secure voting rights.
- Henry A. Wallace - Former U.S. Vice President and Secretary of Agriculture, shaping national policy.
- Dan Shechtman - Nobel Prize-winning chemist for discovering quasicrystals, advancing materials science.
- Tom Harkin - Long-serving U.S. Senator from Iowa, championing disability rights and healthcare reform.
- Norman Borlaug - Agronomist and Nobel Peace Prize winner for the Green Revolution in agriculture.
- Clifford Berry - Co-inventor of the Atanasoff-Berry Computer, a pioneer in digital computing.
- Lee Teng-hui - Former President of Taiwan, credited with democratic reforms in the nation.
- Elwood Mead - Engineer behind the Hoover Dam, a landmark in American infrastructure.
- Mary Jane Welch - Pioneering nutritionist whose research improved public health standards worldwide.
- Robert Bartley - Pulitzer Prize-winning editor of The Wall Street Journal, shaping economic journalism.
- Steven Leath - Former president of Iowa State, advancing educational and research initiatives.
Famous People Who Attended Iowa State University of Science and Technology:
- Sage Rosenfels - Former NFL quarterback known for his dynamic playing style.
- Cael Sanderson - Olympic gold medalist wrestler and renowned coach.
- Tim Floyd - Notable basketball coach with a successful NCAA and NBA career.
- John Garang - South Sudanese revolutionary leader and political figure.
- Fred Hoiberg - Former NBA player and successful college basketball coach.
- Kyle Orton - Former NFL quarterback with a notable professional career.
The impact of Iowa State University alumni resonates both locally and globally, with graduates like Norman Borlaug transforming agriculture to combat world hunger and innovators like John Vincent Atanasoff laying the foundation for the digital age. Their contributions in politics, science, and sports inspire current students and strengthen Iowa State's reputation as a hub of innovation. For more detailed biographies and additional alumni stories, visit the official Iowa State University website at www.iastate.edu. Note: While extensive efforts were made to verify alumni data, some information may be limited or require further confirmation from primary sources.
