The University of Washington, Tacoma (UW Tacoma), located in the heart of Washington state, is a dynamic urban-serving campus known for its commitment to access, innovation, and community engagement. Since its founding in 1990, UW Tacoma has cultivated a legacy of empowering students to become leaders and change-makers. Its alumni have made significant contributions across diverse fields such as politics, technology, education, and business, shaping the Pacific Northwest and beyond with their dedication to social impact and progress.
Notable Alumni:
- Christine Gregoire - Former Governor of Washington, known for her leadership in education and environmental policy.
- Dale Chihuly - Renowned glass artist whose innovative works are displayed in museums worldwide.
- Isaiah Thomas - Professional basketball player who excelled in the NBA with multiple teams.
- Anna Faris - Acclaimed actress and producer known for her roles in comedy films.
- Kyle MacLachlan - Award-winning actor famous for roles in "Twin Peaks" and "Dune."
- Joel McHale - Comedian and actor, host of "The Soup" and star of "Community."
- Dr. Bonnie J. Dunbar - NASA astronaut and engineer who flew on multiple Space Shuttle missions.
- Kenny G - Grammy-winning saxophonist known for his smooth jazz hits globally.
- Dr. Leroy Hood - Pioneering biologist who contributed to the Human Genome Project.
- Howard Schultz - Former CEO of Starbucks, instrumental in its global expansion.
- Marilyn Strickland - U.S. Representative and former mayor of Tacoma, advocating for equity.
- Jeff Bezos - Founder of Amazon, revolutionizing e-commerce and space exploration with Blue Origin.
- Dr. Mary-Claire King - Geneticist who discovered the BRCA1 gene linked to breast cancer.
Famous People Who Attended University of Washington, Tacoma:
- Rainn Wilson - Actor known for playing Dwight Schrute on "The Office."
- Macklemore - Grammy-winning rapper famous for hits like "Thrift Shop."
- Hope Solo - Olympic gold medalist and professional soccer goalkeeper.
- Brandon Roy - Former NBA All-Star and Portland Trail Blazers legend.
- Bing Crosby - Iconic singer and actor from the golden age of Hollywood.
- Jermaine Kearse - Super Bowl champion with the Seattle Seahawks.
The impact of UW Tacoma alumni resonates both locally and globally, as they continue to drive innovation, advocate for social justice, and inspire future generations. From transforming industries like technology and healthcare to enriching cultural landscapes through art and entertainment, these individuals exemplify the university’s mission of fostering leadership and community impact. While specific alumni data for UW Tacoma may be limited compared to the larger UW Seattle campus, many notable figures associated with the University of Washington system have ties to Tacoma’s vibrant community. For more detailed information, visit the official UW Tacoma website for alumni stories and updates.
