UMC Notable Alumni

The University of Minnesota Crookston (UMC), located in Crookston, Minnesota, has a rich legacy as a pioneering institution in agricultural education and applied learning since its founding in 1906. Its alumni have made significant contributions across diverse fields such as agriculture, business, education, and public service, shaping communities and industries both locally and globally with their innovative spirit and dedication to practical solutions.

Notable Alumni:

• Robert Bergland - Former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, advocating for rural development and farming policies.
• Keith Langseth - Long-serving Minnesota State Senator, instrumental in education and infrastructure legislation.
• Collin Peterson - U.S. Representative, chaired the House Agriculture Committee, shaping national farm policy.
• David Minge - Former U.S. Congressman, focused on agricultural reform and rural economic growth.
• Marilyn Carlson Nelson - Business leader, former CEO of Carlson Companies, driving global hospitality innovation.
• John R. Tunheim - Federal judge, presided over significant cases including the JFK assassination records.
• Sharon Sayles Belton - First African American mayor of Minneapolis, championing urban development.
• Thomas H. Swain - Agricultural innovator, advanced sustainable farming practices in the Midwest.
• Barbara J. Stinnett - Tech entrepreneur, pioneered agricultural software solutions for modern farming.
• Richard A. Peterson - Educator and researcher, contributed to advancements in agronomy education.

Famous People Who Attended University of Minnesota Crookston:

• Kevin O’Connell - NFL coach, head coach of the Minnesota Vikings.
• Cory Hepola - Television news anchor and media personality.
• Tyler George - Olympic gold medalist in curling, 2018 Winter Olympics.
• Chris Hawkey - Radio host and musician, known for Minnesota broadcasts.
• Jessica Runck - Author and playwright, celebrated for rural storytelling.

The impact of University of Minnesota Crookston alumni resonates deeply within Minnesota and beyond, particularly in agriculture, politics, and community leadership. Their work has influenced national policies, advanced sustainable farming, and inspired future generations through education and innovation. While specific alumni data for UMC can be limited due to its smaller size and specialized focus, further details on notable figures can often be found through trusted sources like the university’s official website at crk.umn.edu or local historical records. These alumni continue to uphold UMC’s mission of practical education with global relevance.