SCU Notable Alumni

Santa Clara University, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, California, is a prestigious Jesuit institution founded in 1851. With a rich legacy of academic excellence and a commitment to social justice, SCU has produced a diverse array of alumni who have made significant contributions across politics, business, technology, academia, and beyond. These graduates have shaped industries, influenced policy, and driven innovation, embodying the university’s mission of creating leaders with a conscience on both local and global stages.

Notable Alumni:

• Gavin Newsom - Governor of California, known for progressive policies on climate and healthcare.
• Leon Panetta - Former U.S. Secretary of Defense and CIA Director, key in national security.
• Janet Napolitano - Former U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security and President of the University of California.
• Peter Oppenheimer - Former CFO of Apple Inc., instrumental in the company’s financial growth.
• Chris Malachowsky - Co-founder of NVIDIA, a pioneer in GPU technology and AI innovation.
• Richard Tallman - Federal Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.
• Brandi Chastain - Olympic gold medalist and World Cup champion in women’s soccer.
• John Sobrato - Real estate magnate and philanthropist, founder of Sobrato Organization.
• Mike Espy - Former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, first African American in the role.
• Khaled Hosseini - Bestselling author of The Kite Runner, advocate for refugee causes.
• Steve Nash - NBA Hall of Famer and two-time MVP, known for transformative playmaking.
• Julie Ertz - Professional soccer player, two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion.
• Robert Warren - Former CEO of Cascade Communications, leader in telecommunications innovation.
• Mary Bitterman - Media executive and former president of KQED public broadcasting.

Famous People Who Attended Santa Clara University:

• Shemar Moore - Emmy-winning actor known for Criminal Minds and S.W.A.T.
• Steve Nash - NBA legend and current Brooklyn Nets head coach.
• Brandi Chastain - Iconic soccer star and sports commentator.
• Julie Ertz - Soccer superstar and Olympic bronze medalist.
• Kurt Rambis - Former NBA player and four-time champion with the Lakers.
• Jalen Williams - Rising NBA star with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The impact of Santa Clara University alumni resonates far beyond Silicon Valley, influencing global policy, technology, sports, and entertainment. From shaping national security and environmental initiatives through leaders like Gavin Newsom and Leon Panetta to driving technological revolutions via innovators like Chris Malachowsky, SCU graduates are at the forefront of change. Their contributions in athletics and media further amplify the university’s reach, inspiring future generations. For more detailed biographies and updated lists of distinguished alumni, visit the official Santa Clara University Alumni page. Note that while this summary highlights prominent figures, comprehensive data on all alumni achievements may be limited and is subject to ongoing updates from official sources.