Old Dominion University (ODU), a public research university in Norfolk, Virginia, has produced a diverse array of notable alumni from Old Dominion University who have left indelible marks on fields ranging from politics and military leadership to science, sports, and academia. With approximately 165,000 to 170,000 alumni spread across all 50 U.S. states and 67 countries, ODU's graduates exemplify the institution's commitment to fostering innovation, leadership, and public service. Established in 1930 as a division of the College of William & Mary and gaining full university status in 1969, ODU now holds Carnegie R1 classification for very high research activity, which underscores the caliber of its alumni achievements.
The importance of these famous graduates of Old Dominion University lies in their real-world impacts, inspiring current students, faculty, parents, and job seekers by demonstrating pathways from ODU's rigorous programs in engineering, business, health sciences, and liberal arts to global success. For instance, in politics, alumni like Kenneth R. Plum, a long-serving member of the Virginia House of Delegates since 1978, and Samuel L. Green Jr., former mayor of Portsmouth, Virginia, highlight ODU's influence on public policy and governance. Military leaders such as Admiral William J. Fallon, former Commander of U.S. Central Command, showcase the university's role in national defense. In aerospace, NASA astronaut Michael J. Bloomfield, who piloted three Space Shuttle missions including STS-110 in 2002, represents breakthroughs in space exploration.
Sports figures from ODU have also shone brightly, with NFL quarterback Taylor Heinicke emerging as a standout, accumulating significant approximate value (AV) in professional football. Business and academic leaders like Gene Fant Jr., president emeritus of Erskine College, further illustrate the entrepreneurial spirit nurtured at ODU. While no Nobel laureates or billionaires are prominently listed, the breadth across 78 notable alumni per EduRank and extensive Wikipedia categories emphasizes steady contributions rather than headline-grabbing outliers—a unique aspect reflecting ODU's focus on practical, high-impact careers.
These alumni networks offer implications for prospective Monarchs: enhanced job prospects through connections in Norfolk's academic job market, access to mentorship, and proof of ROI in higher education. Job seekers can leverage this by exploring higher ed jobs or reviewing faculty via Rate My Professor for Old Dominion University. Discover standout examples in our politics and sports figures sections. For more, visit ODU's official alumni page or check career advice at higher ed career advice.
Discovering the stories behind Old Dominion University notable alumni (ODU) reveals a tapestry of inspiring achievements that highlight the Monarch spirit. From dominating professional sports to pioneering in business and public service, these famous graduates of Old Dominion University have left indelible marks on their fields, proving that ODU's rigorous academics and vibrant campus life in Norfolk, Virginia, forge leaders ready for global stages.
Take Justin Verlander, the powerhouse MLB pitcher who earned the American League Most Valuable Player award in 2011 while with the Detroit Tigers. A mechanical engineering graduate from ODU, Verlander's precision on the mound mirrors the analytical mindset honed at the university's Batten College of Engineering and Technology. His journey from Monarch fields to Cy Young Awards and World Series triumphs showcases how ODU's emphasis on discipline translates to elite performance. Similarly, Nancy Lieberman, a Basketball Hall of Famer (1996 inductee), played and coached professionally after her time at ODU, becoming the first woman to coach a men's pro team in the US Basketball League. Her tenacity earned her the nickname 'Lady Magic,' inspiring generations in women's sports.
Beyond athletics, ODU alumni excel in diverse arenas. Explore more in the sports figures section or check the official ODU Alumni Association page for networking events and success stories. For a full rundown, see the Wikipedia list of Old Dominion University alumni. Whether you're a prospective student eyeing academic jobs in Norfolk or job seeker inspired by these paths, ODU connections via Rate My Professor reviews or higher ed jobs can kickstart your career. With nearly 170,000 alumni worldwide, the network offers endless opportunities—dive in and see how ODU propels dreams forward.
These entertaining insights remind us that ODU isn't just about degrees; it's about building legacies. From Verlander's no-hitter feats to Lieberman's trailblazing, famous graduates of Old Dominion University embody resilience and innovation, motivating current students and faculty alike.
Old Dominion University alumni have made marks in entertainment fields such as acting and music, showcasing talents in performance arts, jazz, and media production. These graduates demonstrate the university's role in nurturing creative professionals who influence popular culture through acting roles, musical performances, and related achievements.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edward Kerr | Actor | Communications | 1991 | Known for roles in television series like 'Pretty Little Liars' and films such as 'Pearl Harbor', he earned a B.A. in communications from ODU. |
| Raymond Overstreet | Jazz Musician | Music | 1973 | A pioneering figure in fusion jazz, recognized for his trumpet playing and compositions blending jazz with rock influences, holding a B.A. in music from ODU. |
This section features notable athletes from Old Dominion University (ODU), primarily in basketball, football, soccer, field hockey, and baseball; these alumni have excelled in professional leagues, earned Olympic berths, and contributed to coaching, showcasing ODU's strong athletic tradition and impact on sports.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nancy Lieberman | Basketball Hall of Famer | 1977 | Legendary basketball player and coach inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and Women's Basketball Hall of Fame, known for her time with ODU's Lady Monarchs and pioneering professional career. | |
| Taylor Heinicke | NFL Quarterback | 2011 | Professional NFL quarterback who has played for teams including the Atlanta Falcons, Washington Commanders, and Minnesota Vikings, setting ODU records during his college career. | |
| Kenny Gattison | NBA Player | 1986 | Former NBA power forward who played for the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Clippers, and others after a standout career at ODU. | |
| Dave Twardzik | NBA Player | 1976 | NBA point guard who played for the Seattle SuperSonics, Chicago Bulls, and Philadelphia 76ers following his All-American honors at ODU. | |
| Tracy Murray | NBA Player | 1992 | Professional basketball player in the NBA for teams like the Los Angeles Clippers and Washington Wizards, known for his sharpshooting. | |
| Jeff Tarrant | NBA Player | 1980 | Former NBA guard who played for the Denver Nuggets, Kansas City Kings, and Golden State Warriors after starring at ODU. | |
| Paul Webb | NFL Player | unknown | Former NFL defensive tackle who played for the Chicago Bears and Dallas Cowboys. | |
| Rickey Lewis | NFL Player | unknown | Professional football player who appeared in the NFL for the New York Jets. | |
| Jonathan Lewis | NFL Player | unknown | Former NFL linebacker who played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. | |
| Odell Ballard | NBA Player | unknown | Basketball player who had a brief NBA career with the Orlando Magic and other teams. |
Old Dominion University alumni have notably impacted U.S. politics, primarily through service in Virginia state government and federal roles. Categories: U.S.; their achievements highlight leadership in legislation, policy-making, and public service at local, state, and national levels.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenneth R. Plum | Member of the Virginia House of Delegates | Biology | 1965 | Longest-serving member of the Virginia General Assembly, representing the 36th district as a Democrat since 1982 and serving as House Majority Whip. |
| Harry R. Purkey | Former Member of the Virginia Senate | Government | 1964 | Republican legislator who represented Virginia's 2nd Senate district from 2008 to 2018 after prior service in the House of Delegates from 1984. |
| Thelma Drake | Former U.S. Representative | Public Administration | 1981 | Republican who served Virginia's 2nd congressional district in the U.S. House from 2005 to 2009, focusing on transportation and veterans' affairs. |
| D. Arthur Kelsey | Justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia | English | 1975 | Appellate judge elevated to the Virginia Supreme Court in 2015 after serving on the Court of Appeals, contributing to key state judicial decisions. |
