Bellevue University: A Legacy of Notable Alumni
Introduction
Bellevue University, a private non-profit institution in Bellevue, Nebraska, has been shaping minds and fostering success since its establishment as Bellevue College in 1966. Rebranded as Bellevue University in 1994, the university has a rich history of providing quality education and a unique "BRUIN experience," emphasizing student satisfaction in achieving success both in and outside of the classroom. With a wide array of undergraduate fields of study and a commitment to innovation, Bellevue University has produced a diverse range of notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. The university's suburban-style campus in Bellevue serves as the backdrop for academic and athletic pursuits, with the Bellevue Bruins competing in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
A Foundation of Growth and Adaptation
Bellevue University's journey began with a vision to create a higher education institution after the failure of a public community college development. The college initially occupied a renovated building owned by the International Telephone and Telegraph Corporation. In the mid-1980s, a $2.5 million re-development project brought a new student center, a soccer field, and building renovations. The university expanded its offerings to include master's degree programs in 1990, further solidifying its commitment to academic excellence.
Notable Alumni in Politics and Public Service
Bellevue University has a strong track record of producing leaders in politics and public service.
Jaime Herrera Beutler, a graduate of Bellevue College, served as a U.S. Representative for Washington's 3rd congressional district from 2011 to 2023. Prior to her congressional service, Herrera Beutler served in the Washington House of Representatives, demonstrating her commitment to public service.
George Richard Lunn was an American clergyman and politician from New York. He served as a U.S. Representative from 1917 to 1919, and the lieutenant governor of New York from 1923 to 1924.
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Judd Henry Lyons, a retired Army National Guard officer, graduated from Bellevue University with a Bachelor of Science degree. After retiring from the military with the rank of major general, he was appointed to the Senior Executive Service. Since 2018, he has served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (Reserve Integration), advising the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs on reserve component matters.
Beau McCoy served as a member of the Nebraska Legislature for the 39th district from 2009 to 2017.
Mark A. Brandenburg served as the Iowa State Representative from the 15th District from 2011 to 2015. He has a B.S. in human resource management from Bellevue University.
Notable Alumni in Athletics
Bellevue University's athletic programs have also produced notable alumni who have excelled in their respective sports.
Randy Radames Ruiz is an American former professional baseball designated hitter and first baseman. He attended Bellevue University, where he played college-level baseball.
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T. J. Bohn is an American former professional baseball outfielder who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Seattle Mariners and Philadelphia Phillies.
Beth Walker and Lisa Walker-Longmeyer were standout volleyball players at Bellevue University.
Notable Alumni in Arts and Entertainment
Bellevue University alumni have also made their mark in the arts and entertainment industry.
Billy McGuigan, a Bellevue East graduate, has been performing on stage since 1992. He has headlined over 15,000 performances and was inducted into the Nebraska Music Hall of Fame.
Zach Ireland (Splittgerber), a Bellevue West graduate, is a TV host and actor in China, with his work reaching millions of viewers.
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Jennifer Smedley, a Bellevue East graduate, is part of the comedy duo #IMomSoHard.
John Ford, a Bellevue High School graduate, has been influential in bringing numerous programs to television.
Kym Clark (Akers), a Bellevue graduate, has worked as a news anchor for WMC Action News 5 in Memphis for 30 years, earning two Emmy awards.
Notable Alumni in Business and Entrepreneurship
Bellevue University has fostered a spirit of entrepreneurship, with many alumni achieving success in the business world.
Diane Bruce, co-owner of B&B Classic Dogs, credits her Bellevue University degree as a key ingredient in her success.
Rebecca Zurcher (Kumor), a Bellevue East graduate, is the owner-operator of Erwin’s Jewelers Co in Olde Towne Bellevue, a long-standing business in Sarpy County.
Brian Fox, a Bellevue West graduate, owns Cornhusker Auto Wash, Bellevue's original full-service car wash.
Barclay Knapp, a Bellevue High graduate, is a serial entrepreneur whose companies include a cable service provider in England during the 1990s.
Tony Valenti, a Bellevue West graduate, started his own company, Managed.com, while still a student.
Notable Alumni in Academia and Healthcare
Bellevue University alumni have also made significant contributions in academia and healthcare.
Dr. Nicole Shonka (Weber), a Bellevue East graduate, is the Medical Director of The Buffett Cancer Center at UNMC in Omaha and an Associate Professor of Neuro-Oncology.
Dr. Michelle Mras (Guichard), a Bellevue West graduate, is an award-winning international speaker and author.
Dr. Sherrill (Sherri) Adams, a Bellevue High graduate, had a lifelong career in science at the University of Pennsylvania.
Dr. Aaron Kyle, a Bellevue West graduate, is a professor and senior lecturer at Columbia University and a recipient of the Columbia University Presidential Award for Outstanding Teaching.
Preston Love Jr. Graduated with Master of Professional Studies. is an American politician, professor, author and activist who served as Jesse Jackson's campaign manager during the 1984 Democratic primaries.
Notable Alumni in Military Service
Bellevue University boasts alumni who have served their country with distinction in the military.
Michael D. Navrkal is a retired major general in the Army National Guard.
Jason T Evans, a Bellevue West graduate, pursued a military career inspired by his father.
Michael Fulmer, a Bellevue graduate, joined the Marines after graduating in 1962 and served in Vietnam.
Dr. Will Thomas, a Bellevue West graduate, had a distinguished military career.
Col. (Dr.) Gene Gaspard maintains an active life balancing his dental practice, military commitments, and family time.
Other Fields
Kenzo Maeda is is a current professional basketball head coach for Akita Northern Happinets in Japan and the former bench boss for the Takamatsu Five Arrows of the bj league.
Bellevue University's Commitment to Student Success
Bellevue University's commitment to student success is reflected in its diverse and accomplished alumni. The university's unique "BRUIN experience" fosters a supportive and engaging learning environment, empowering students to achieve their full potential. With a focus on innovation and real-world application, Bellevue University prepares its graduates to make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields. The university's online programs, which serve over 90 percent of its students, further expand access to quality education and cater to the needs of a diverse student body. Bellevue University's partnerships with organizations like the ECHL and Southern Professional Hockey League demonstrate its commitment to providing scholarships and professional development opportunities for its students.
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