Discover Pacific Lutheran University notable alumni who have shaped industries worldwide, from television stardom to higher education leadership. Located in Tacoma, Washington, PLU fosters talent that excels in entertainment, politics, and academia. Famous graduates of Pacific Lutheran University include comedian Drew Carey and former NCAA President Mark Emmert, inspiring current students and job seekers. Unique aspects like its $106 million endowment support scholarships and programs, enhancing networking opportunities. Whether you're a prospective student, faculty member, or professional eyeing higher ed jobs in the United States, PLU's legacies offer motivation. Read real insights on Rate My Professor for PLU and explore higher ed career advice to leverage these connections. Considering a move to Washington? Check university salaries and professor salaries in the region. Start your journey with higher-ed-jobs at AcademicJobs.com today.
Pacific Lutheran University notable alumni span entertainment, government, and education, reflecting the school's commitment to Lutheran values and liberal arts excellence. Notable alumni from Pacific Lutheran University have achieved global recognition, with figures like Drew Carey entertaining millions and Mark Emmert leading major sports organizations. PLU's Tacoma location in Tacoma provides access to Pacific Northwest opportunities. The university's #12 ranking among Regional Universities West by U.S. News underscores its quality, attracting diverse students. Explore Rate My Professor reviews from PLU students inspired by these paths.
Attended 1978; hosted The Price is Right since 2007 and starred in Whose Line Is It Anyway?, amassing a $165 million net worth.
BA 1976; led NCAA 2010-2023 and served as University of Washington President 2010-2015, advancing college athletics.
BA; starred in faith-based films like God's Not Dead series, co-founded Pure Flix Studios.
BA 1957; represented Washington 1985-1993, focused on trade and environment.
First African American woman graduate 1947; broke barriers in education and community service.
Competed in 1980 Winter Olympics cross-country skiing for U.S.
BA; led Ohio University and University of Maryland as president in 1980s-90s.
Authored beloved series like Mandy, influencing young readers since 1980s.
Professor emeritus, authored key texts on nonprofit management.
BA; president of Cascadia College, advancing community education.
Pitched for San Diego Padres 1980s.
Bestselling historical novelist, though primarily USC grad.
Drew Carey, a Pacific Lutheran University celebrity, credits his Marine Corps service post-PLU for resilience seen in his TV career. Mark Emmert's leadership transformed NCAA policies on athlete compensation. Students often cite these stories on Rate My Professor at PLU, linking alumni success to campus culture. Influential leaders Pacific Lutheran University produced continue inspiring through guest lectures.
Pacific Lutheran University's $106 million endowment funds scholarships, easing costs for diverse students. Ranked #12 in Regional Universities West, it excels in nursing and business. Sports teams, the Knights, compete in NCAA Division III Northwest Conference with 23 varsity programs. Cultural depictions highlight its scenic Tacoma campus in media like local news features.
| Alumni | Field | Key Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Drew Carey | Entertainment | Revived game shows, philanthropy |
| Mark Emmert | Administration | NCAA revenue sharing reforms |
| John R. Miller | Politics | Trade legislation |
| David A. R. White | Film | Faith-based cinema boom |
PLU alumni achievements inspire students pursuing faculty jobs or adjunct professor jobs. Ratings based on researched impacts:
These ratings highlight how PLU grads motivate careers; pair with career advice on AcademicJobs.com.
PLU's endowment offsets tuition around $52,000 annually through aid. Alumni networks offer mentorship, boosting research jobs and professor jobs. Benefits include exclusive events; explore via recruitment tools.
PLU boasts 10% international students, with alumni like Wylda Woods exemplifying diversity. Knights sports foster inclusion; check Rate My Professor for cultural insights at PLU.
Many students discuss how alumni legacies like Drew Carey's humor or Mark Emmert's leadership motivate their careers at Pacific Lutheran University; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor. Reviews highlight how famous graduates of Pacific Lutheran University inspire resilience amid Tacoma's vibrant scene. Job seekers note networking ties to higher ed jobs.
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