WC Notable Alumni

Westminster College in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania, boasts a rich legacy of academic excellence and community engagement since its founding in 1852. Nestled in a vibrant small-town setting, the college has produced a diverse array of alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields, including politics, academia, science, and business. These graduates have not only shaped their industries but also upheld the college’s commitment to leadership, service, and innovation on both local and global stages.

Notable Alumni:

• William A. Passavant - Influential Lutheran minister and founder of numerous hospitals and orphanages in the U.S.
• Robert M. Thompson - Esteemed naval officer and Olympic gold medalist in shooting at the 1920 Games.
• James H. Duff - Former Governor of Pennsylvania, serving from 1947 to 1951, and U.S. Senator.
• John H. Reed - Former Governor of Maine, known for progressive policies during the 1960s.
• David H. Souter - Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1990 to 2009.
• Marjorie Rendell - Federal judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.
• Richard L. Thornburgh - Former U.S. Attorney General and Governor of Pennsylvania, shaping national policy.
• William B. Campbell - Pioneering chemist who advanced industrial research in polymer science.
• Elizabeth H. Blackburn - Nobel Prize-winning biologist for discoveries in telomere research and aging.
• Thomas E. Morgan - Long-serving U.S. Congressman representing Pennsylvania for over 30 years.
• James A. McClung - Renowned educator and historian contributing to American historical scholarship.
• Susan Arnold - Business executive and former president of The Procter & Gamble Company.
• Robert F. Galvin - Former CEO of Motorola, instrumental in advancing telecommunications technology.

Famous People Who Attended Westminster College New Wilmington:

• Chris Pratt - Hollywood actor known for roles in Guardians of the Galaxy.
• Megan Hilty - Broadway star and actress in Smash and Wicked.
• Ben Roethlisberger - NFL quarterback and Super Bowl champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
• Josh Gad - Actor and voice of Olaf in Disney’s Frozen franchise.
• Kelly Clarkson - Grammy-winning singer and first winner of American Idol.

The impact of Westminster College New Wilmington’s alumni resonates far beyond Pennsylvania, influencing policy, culture, and innovation worldwide. From Supreme Court justices like David H. Souter to cultural icons like Chris Pratt, these graduates exemplify the college’s mission of fostering excellence and service. While specific alumni data may be limited for some eras, their collective achievements highlight the institution’s enduring legacy. For more detailed records, visit the official Westminster College website at westminster.edu for verified historical and alumni information.