Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) notable alumni have left indelible marks across various fields, particularly in politics and sports, showcasing the power of its Historically Black College and University (HBCU) legacy in Charlotte, North Carolina. While JCSU hasn't produced U.S. presidents, Hollywood actors, or billionaires, its famous graduates excel as trailblazers in public service, athletics, and community leadership. These influential leaders from Johnson C. Smith University demonstrate resilience and impact, inspiring current students eyeing careers in government or professional sports. Dive into detailed breakdowns like politics and sports figures, and explore more on the official JCSU alumni page. Thinking of studying here? Check Rate My Professor reviews for JCSU faculty or browse Academic Jobs in Charlotte for local opportunities.
JCSU politics alumni shattered racial barriers in North Carolina governance during the Civil Rights era, becoming pioneers on Charlotte's city council and NAACP leadership.
Athletes from Johnson C. Smith University dominate CIAA (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association) history, with grads reaching pro leagues and world championships.
These standout notable alumni from Johnson C. Smith University highlight paths from campus to global stages. Aspiring leaders can follow suit – review professor ratings or pursue higher ed jobs nearby. JCSU's legacy continues to produce influential leaders.
Discovering the stories behind Johnson C. Smith University notable alumni (JCSU) is like uncovering hidden gems from Charlotte's vibrant history. This historically Black university (HBCU), founded in 1867, has produced trailblazers who broke barriers and shaped communities. Take Dorothy Counts-Scoggins, class of '64, a civil rights icon who, at age 15, became one of the first Black students to integrate a white high school in the South. Facing mobs hurling rocks and slurs, her courage captured national attention and advanced desegregation efforts—talk about stepping into the spotlight with unbreakable grit!
Fast-forward to Dr. Phyllis Dawkins ('75), a powerhouse in higher education. As former president of Bennett College, another HBCU, she steered the institution through challenges, boosting enrollment and launching innovative programs. Her leadership exemplifies how JCSU famous graduates turn vision into victory. Then there's Larry Mims ('00), a dynamic radio host whose voice resonates across airwaves, entertaining and informing audiences with charisma honed at JCSU.
These HBCU Living Legends highlight the university's legacy of influential leaders. Sports enthusiasts note JCSU's athletic hall of famers, fueling rivalries in the CIAA conference. For aspiring Golden Bulls, check professor insights on Rate My Professor or explore academic jobs in Charlotte. JCSU alumni prove that from civil rights to campus presidencies, their achievements inspire job seekers eyeing higher ed jobs. Dive deeper via the official JCSU alumni portal.
With over 1,100 students today, JCSU's network offers networking gold for those in North Carolina's growing academic scene. Whether chasing breakthroughs or community impact, these stories entertain while motivating—perfect for students pondering their path.
Discover how notable alumni from Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) shine in various fields, rated on a scale of 1-10 using star symbols for their inspirational impact. These ratings draw from verified achievements of famous graduates, highlighting the university's legacy as Charlotte's only historically black college or university (HBCU), founded in 1867. JCSU fosters leaders who transform communities, especially in civil rights, education, and athletics. Ratings consider historical influence, recent recognitions like the 2023 HBCU Living Legends class, and real-world outcomes for students and job seekers eyeing higher ed careers.
Overall, JCSU alumni excel in impactful, community-focused areas rather than entertainment celebrities or billionaires, reflecting its Presbyterian-affiliated HBCU ethos. To mirror these successes, connect with alumni via JCSU's alumni services, explore academic jobs in Charlotte, and rate professors on Rate My Professor for tailored guidance. Parents and faculty: Encourage involvement in HBCU Living Legends events for motivation. This network positions graduates for influential roles—start by browsing scholarships today.
This section highlights notable alumni from Johnson C. Smith University in entertainment fields including Actors, Musicians, Composers, Gamers, and Chess masters. These graduates have left their mark on the entertainment industry through creative performances and contributions, reflecting the diverse talents fostered at this historic HBCU.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leon Campbell | Actor | unknown | American actor best known for guest-starring roles on 1970s television sitcoms such as Sanford and Son, That's My Mama, and Good Times. |
Johnson C. Smith University alumni in sports, primarily athletes in American football and boxing, have achieved professional success in the NFL and world championships. These figures highlight the university's strong athletic tradition within the CIAA conference and NCAA Division II.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| James "Bonecrusher" Smith | Former WBA Heavyweight Champion | 1977 | Professional boxer who captured the WBA heavyweight title by defeating Mike Tyson in 1987 and competed against top heavyweights during his career. | |
| Marvcus Patton | Former NFL Linebacker | unknown | Played 11 NFL seasons with the New York Giants and Washington Redskins, earning two Pro Bowl selections and recording over 1,000 tackles. | |
| Lonnie Young | Former NFL Defensive Back | unknown | Appeared in 109 NFL games over eight seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Phoenix Cardinals, and Green Bay Packers as a cornerback and safety. | |
| Daryl Jones | Former NFL Wide Receiver | unknown | Played professionally for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Kansas City Chiefs, known for his speed and contributions as a receiver. | |
| James Manley | Former NFL Defensive End | unknown | Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1983, played multiple seasons in the NFL as a defensive lineman. | |
| Gerald McRath | Former NFL Linebacker | unknown | Spent five NFL seasons mainly with the New York Jets, contributing on defense during his professional career. |
Johnson C. Smith University alumni have made notable impacts in U.S. politics, particularly in local and state government in North Carolina, focusing on civil rights, city council service, and legislative roles; no prominent international or royalty/nobility figures identified.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fred D. Alexander | Charlotte City Council Member and Mayor Pro Tem | Business Administration | 1941 | First African American elected to public office in North Carolina since Reconstruction, serving on the Charlotte City Council from 1961 to 1977 and as mayor pro tem. |
| Kelly Alexander Sr. | North Carolina House of Representatives Member | 1933 | Civil rights activist who represented Mecklenburg County in the North Carolina General Assembly from 1955 to 1968, advocating for racial equality. | |
| Ella Scarborough | North Carolina House of Representatives Member | 1953 | Served in the North Carolina House of Representatives from 1995 to 2003, championing education and community development initiatives. |
