Pennsylvania State University (Penn State), a public research powerhouse in Centre County, Pennsylvania, boasts one of the largest alumni networks in the world, with over 770,000 living graduates who have left indelible marks across industries. Searches for Pennsylvania State University notable alumni and notable alumni from Pennsylvania State University highlight the institution's role in producing famous graduates of Pennsylvania State University, from groundbreaking scientists to influential leaders and sports icons. This vast network underscores Penn State's commitment to fostering innovation, leadership, and excellence, making it an attractive destination for students and job seekers eyeing impactful careers.
The alumni achievements span key categories, demonstrating the university's broad influence. In science, John B. Goodenough (B.S. Mathematics, 1943) earned the 2019 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for lithium-ion battery development, revolutionizing energy storage and powering modern electronics—implications that ripple through sustainable tech and electric vehicles today. Politics features heavyweights like Rudy Giuliani (J.D., 1968), former New York City Mayor, and Tom Ridge (B.A., 1967), the first U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, shaping national policy during critical times. Sports figures abound, with dozens of Olympians and NFL stars emerging from Penn State's storied athletic programs, contributing to a legacy of championships and professional success. Business titans include Terry Pegula (B.S. Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering, 1973), a billionaire owner of the Buffalo Bills and Sabres, exemplifying entrepreneurial prowess.
These Pennsylvania State University influential leaders and Pennsylvania State University breakthroughs highlight unique aspects like the university's land-grant roots, emphasizing practical engineering, agriculture, and public service. Stats from trusted sources show Penn State alumni lead Fortune 500 companies and hold pivotal roles in government, with recent trends (past 5-10 years) revealing rising impacts in tech and sustainability. For prospective students or faculty, this network offers mentorship, job pipelines, and inspiration—check higher ed jobs in Centre County or Pennsylvania. Parents and job seekers appreciate the global reach, from astronauts like Guion Bluford (first Black astronaut, M.S. Aerospace Engineering, 1974) to entertainers.
Explore specifics in Nobel laureates, politics, millionaires and billionaires, and sports figures. To gauge campus vibe, visit Rate My Professor for Pennsylvania State University reviews. Learn more via Penn State's official alumni site or comprehensive list. Joining this legacy means accessing unparalleled opportunities in a vibrant community.
Pennsylvania State University, affectionately known as Penn State, boasts an impressive roster of notable alumni from Pennsylvania State University who have made waves in politics, entertainment, and business. From trailblazing leaders shaping national security to comedic geniuses lighting up screens and savvy entrepreneurs building empires, these famous graduates of Pennsylvania State University inspire current students and job seekers eyeing careers in higher ed. Explore standout categories below, featuring top figures with entertaining tidbits drawn from trusted sources like the university's records and Wikipedia. For more, check the politics alumni list, entertainment figures, or millionaires and billionaires.
Penn State grads have ascended to high offices, including governorships, cabinet posts, and university presidencies, demonstrating the school's strength in public service and leadership training. No U.S. Presidents hail from here, but these influencers have left lasting legacies.
Penn State's theater and communications programs have launched stars into Hollywood and beyond, blending humor, drama, and sports announcing flair for captivating audiences worldwide.
Though not overflowing with billionaires, Penn State's engineering and business grads have forged fortunes in energy and ice cream, fueling philanthropy back to their alma mater.
These Pennsylvania State University celebrities highlight the Nittany Lions' network power—perfect for job seekers. Browse higher ed jobs or rate Penn State professors to kickstart your path. See full lists on Wikipedia or EduRank.
Discovering the notable alumni from Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) is like uncovering a treasure trove of success stories that inspire students and job seekers worldwide. These famous graduates of Pennsylvania State University have left indelible marks across entertainment, sports, politics, and business, proving the power of a Penn State education. Take Keegan-Michael Key, the hilarious comedian and actor from Key & Peele, who earned his BFA in theater from Penn State in 1991. His sharp wit and improvisational skills, honed in university productions, propelled him to Emmy wins and roles in blockbusters like The Super Mario Bros. Movie. It's entertaining to think how late-night sketches at Penn State theaters launched a career that's entertained millions.
In sports, Penn State's gridiron legacy shines through alumni like Franco Harris, the NFL legend who played running back for the Nittany Lions from 1969-1971 before his iconic Immaculate Reception with the Pittsburgh Steelers secured a playoff miracle in 1972. Or John Cappelletti, the 1973 Heisman Trophy winner whose grit on the field mirrored his post-football philanthropy. These Pennsylvania State University sports figures exemplify the "We Are... Penn State!" spirit, dominating professional leagues and Olympics—check out our sports-figures for more. For aspiring athletes or coaches eyeing higher-ed jobs, Penn State's athletic network opens doors; explore higher-ed-jobs in athletics across Centre County.
Politics boasts Rick Santorum, who graduated with a B.A. in political science in 1975 and rose to U.S. Senator, channeling Penn State debate skills into national debates. Billionaire Terry Pegula (BS Hotel and Restaurant Management, 1972) transformed from oil field worker to natural gas tycoon, owning the Buffalo Bills and Sabres— a true rags-to-riches tale. Guion Bluford, the first African American astronaut (BS aerospace engineering, 1964), soared on four Space Shuttle missions, breaking barriers. These achievements highlight Pennsylvania State University celebrities and influential leaders shaping the world.
Prospective students, rate your potential professors on Rate My Professor for Penn State insights, or parents/job seekers, discover scholarships via scholarships. Visit Penn State's official alumni site for verified stories. Whether chasing breakthroughs or careers, Penn State's network empowers—tailor your resume with our free resume template for Pennsylvania opportunities. (348 words)
Exploring the accomplishments of notable alumni from Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) can ignite ambition for students, faculty, staff, parents, and job seekers eyeing this powerhouse institution in Centre County, Pennsylvania. These star ratings assess inspirational impact across key categories, based on verified graduates' real-world successes. Ratings reflect how Penn State's rigorous programs—think engineering, business, and liberal arts—propel alumni to global stages, drawing from trusted sources like the university's official records. Whether you're a prospective student dreaming big or a job seeker leveraging the Nittany Lions network, these insights offer actionable advice to channel that Penn State spirit.
Overall, Penn State's alumni network fuels breakthroughs, with Alumni Association connecting 650,000+ globally. For job seekers, these stories underscore pursuing passions amid challenges—network aggressively, seek career advice, and consider scholarships to follow suit. Imagine your name among famous graduates of Pennsylvania State University! (348 words)
Pennsylvania State University alumni have excelled in entertainment fields such as actors, musicians, composers, gamers, and chess masters, contributing to film, television, music, and competitive scenes with creative storytelling, performances, and innovative works that entertain global audiences.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keegan-Michael Key | Actor, Comedian | Theatre | 2003 (M.F.A.) | Star of the sketch comedy series Key & Peele and voice actor in The Super Mario Bros. Movie. |
| David Conrad | Actor | Biology | 1983 | Known for playing Jim Clancy in the CBS series Ghost Whisperer and roles in films like Wedding Crashers. |
| Franklin Cover | Actor | 1951 | Portrayed the neighbor Thomas "Tom" Willis on the sitcom The Jeffersons. | |
Browse the list of professors at below. Search by name or view ratings to find your professor and share your experience.
| Todd Graff |
| Actor, Screenwriter |
| unknown |
| Actor in films like The Abyss and screenwriter for movies including Camp and Music and Lyrics. |
| Catherine Mary Stewart | Actress | unknown | Starred in 1980s cult classics such as Night of the Comet and The Last Starfighter. |
| Taylor Hicks | Musician, Singer | unknown (attended, dropped out) | Winner of American Idol season 5, known for his album Taylor Hicks and soul-influenced performances. |
| David Newman | Composer | unknown | Academy Award-nominated film composer for scores in Heathers, Matilda, and The War of the Roses. |
| Jay Chandrasekhar | Actor, Director, Comedian | 1987 | Co-founder of Broken Lizard, directed and starred in Super Troopers and its sequels. |
| P!nk | Singer | 1998-1999 (attended, dropped out) | Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter known for hits like 'So What,' 'Raise Your Glass,' and albums such as Missundaztood. |
Athletes from Pennsylvania State University have excelled across various sports including football, wrestling, basketball, and more, contributing to professional leagues like the NFL, NBA, NHL, Olympics, and coaching ranks with notable championships, awards, and records that highlight the Nittany Lions' athletic legacy.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Todd Blackledge | NFL Quarterback | 1979-1982 | 1982 National Champion quarterback and current ESPN college football analyst. | |
| Ernie Stautner | NFL Defensive End | 1945-1949 | Pro Football Hall of Famer and nine-time Pro Bowler who anchored the Steelers' line for 14 seasons. | |
| Ki-Jana Carter | NFL Running Back | 1990-1994 | 1994 Heisman Trophy runner-up and No. 1 overall NFL draft pick despite injury-shortened career. | |
| Matt Millen | NFL Linebacker | 1976-1979 | Four-time Super Bowl champion who later served as Detroit Lions president. | |
| John Amaechi | NBA Center | 1990-1995 | First openly gay NBA player post-retirement, played for Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic, and Utah Jazz. | |
| Curtis Enis | NFL Running Back | 1994-1997 | Two-time All-American running back drafted fifth overall by the Chicago Bears. | |
| Lev Bell | NFL Running Back | 2009-2012 | Three-time Pro Bowl selection known for explosive plays with the Pittsburgh Steelers. | |
| Brock Lesnar | WWE Wrestler and MMA Fighter | 1998-2000 | NCAA heavyweight wrestling champion who became UFC Heavyweight Champion and WWE Champion. | |
| Charlie Brenneman | MMA Fighter | 1999-2003 | UFC welterweight contender and Big Ten wrestling champion. | |
| Ed Vosberg | MLB Pitcher | 1983-1986 | Olympic gold medalist pitcher who played in MLB for the San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks. | |
| Cael Sanderson | Olympic Wrestler and Coach | Marketing | 1997-2002 | Undefeated four-time NCAA champion, 2004 Olympic gold medalist, and head coach leading Penn State to multiple team titles. |
| Rosey Brown | NFL Offensive Tackle | 1950-1953 | Pro Football Hall of Famer and six-time All-Pro who played 13 seasons for the New York Giants. | |
| Mike Munchak | NFL Guard | 1978-1981 | Pro Football Hall of Famer, 11-time Pro Bowler, and eight-time All-Pro during 12 seasons with the Houston Oilers. | |
| Jack Ham | NFL Linebacker | 1967-1970 | Pro Football Hall of Famer, eight-time All-Pro, and four-time Super Bowl champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers. | |
| Paul Posluszny | NFL Linebacker | 2003-2006 | Two-time Chuck Bednarik Award winner, Dick Butkus Award recipient, and College Football Hall of Famer with an 11-year NFL tenure. | |
| LaVar Arrington | NFL Linebacker | 1997-1999 | Two-time Butkus Award winner and three-time All-American who had a standout NFL career with the Washington Redskins. | |
| Kerry Collins | NFL Quarterback | 1991-1994 | 1994 Davey O'Brien Award winner and first overall NFL draft pick who played 17 seasons, leading the Giants to Super Bowl XXXV. | |
| John Cappelletti | NFL Running Back | 1971-1973 | 1973 Heisman Trophy winner and College Football Hall of Famer who rushed for over 4,000 yards at Penn State and played professionally for the Rams. | |
| Franco Harris | NFL Running Back | 1969-1971 | Iconic Pittsburgh Steelers running back famous for the Immaculate Reception, four Super Bowl wins, and induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. |
Pennsylvania State University alumni include prominent millionaires and billionaires who have excelled in energy, finance, investment, and real estate, contributing to major industry advancements and philanthropy. Their achievements highlight the university's role in nurturing business leaders who drive economic innovation and success.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terrence Pegula | Founder of East Resources; Owner of Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres | Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering | 1973 | Billionaire who built and sold natural gas exploration company East Resources for $4.7 billion in 2010, later acquiring NHL's Buffalo Sabres and NFL's Buffalo Bills. |
| Stanley Druckenmiller | Hedge fund manager; Founder of Duquesne Capital | English | 1975 | Billionaire investor renowned for successful macroeconomic bets, including profiting over $1 billion from shorting the British pound in 1992 while managing Soros Fund. |
| Ira Lubert | Co-founder of Lubert-Adler Partners | Business Administration | 1973 | Real estate billionaire who co-founded private equity firm Lubert-Adler, managing billions in investments, and serves as chair of Penn State's Board of Trustees. |
Although Pennsylvania State University is renowned for its outstanding alumni achievements across various fields, a handful have become infamous due to involvement in serious criminal matters, particularly those linked to the 2011 child sexual abuse scandal surrounding the football program. This section highlights verified cases from reliable sources like Wikipedia's List of Pennsylvania State University people, focusing on context without glorification.
| Name | Job Title | Discipline | Class Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jerry Sandusky | Assistant Football Coach | Physical Education | 1969 | Convicted in 2012 on 45 counts of child sexual abuse for crimes committed against young boys associated with his charity, The Second Mile, over a period of 15 years. |
| Graham Spanier | University President | Sociology | 1968 | Convicted in 2017 of misdemeanor child endangerment for failing to report suspected child abuse in connection with the Jerry Sandusky scandal during his tenure as Penn State president. |
| Gary Schultz | Vice President for Finance and Business | Business Administration | 1963 | Convicted in 2017 of child endangerment related to inadequate reporting of child sexual abuse allegations against Jerry Sandusky while serving in university administration. |
| Tim Curley | Athletic Director | Physical Education | 1976 | Convicted in 2017 of child endangerment for not properly reporting eyewitness accounts of child sexual abuse by Jerry Sandusky during his role as Penn State athletic director. |
