Occidental College, located in Los Angeles, California, is a prestigious liberal arts institution with a rich legacy of fostering innovative thinkers and leaders since its founding in 1887. Its alumni have made significant contributions across diverse fields such as politics, academia, science, and business, shaping both local communities and global landscapes with their groundbreaking work and dedication to social progress.
Notable Alumni:
- Barack Obama - 44th President of the United States, attended Occidental before transferring to Columbia University.
- Jack Kemp - Former U.S. Congressman and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, influential in economic policy.
- Terry Gilliam - Acclaimed filmmaker and member of Monty Python, known for imaginative cinematic works.
- Howard Ahmanson Jr. - Prominent philanthropist and businessman, supporting conservative causes and religious initiatives.
- Andrea Elliott - Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, recognized for impactful reporting on social issues and inequality.
- Robert Finch - Former U.S. Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare under President Nixon.
- Stephen Bechtel Jr. - Business magnate and former chairman of Bechtel Corporation, a global engineering firm.
- Joanna Gleason - Tony Award-winning actress, celebrated for her roles in Broadway musicals and film.
- David B. Kaplan - Renowned physicist, contributing to theories of particle physics and cosmology.
- Marsha Evans - Former president of the American Red Cross, leader in nonprofit and military sectors.
- Bill Redpath - National chairman of the Libertarian Party, advocate for political reform and liberty.
- Chris Norby - California State Assemblyman, known for his work in local governance and policy.
- Emily Rapp Black - Award-winning author and memoirist, exploring themes of loss and resilience.
Famous People Who Attended Occidental College:
- Ben Affleck - Academy Award-winning actor and filmmaker, known for "Good Will Hunting."
- Luke Wilson - Popular actor, starred in films like "Old School" and "The Royal Tenenbaums."
- Emily Osment - Actress and singer, recognized for her role in "Hannah Montana."
- Maurissa Tancharoen - Writer and producer, co-creator of "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D."
- Patrick Fugit - Actor, known for his breakout role in "Almost Famous."
- Kristin Hahn - Film producer, collaborated on projects like "The Departed" and "Wild."
The impact of Occidental College alumni resonates both locally in Los Angeles and globally, with figures like Barack Obama shaping international policy and cultural icons like Ben Affleck influencing the entertainment industry. Their achievements in governance, science, and the arts highlight the college’s commitment to nurturing talent that drives societal change. While this list showcases prominent names, comprehensive alumni data may be limited; for further details, refer to trusted sources like the official Occidental College website at www.oxy.edu.
