Creighton University: A Legacy of Notable Alumni

Creighton University, a private Jesuit research university in Omaha, Nebraska, has a rich history and a strong commitment to its students and the community. Founded in 1878, the university has grown into a diverse institution with over 8,500 students. Creighton's core values are rooted in the Jesuit tradition, emphasizing service, justice, and the pursuit of knowledge. These values are reflected in the accomplishments and contributions of its many notable alumni.

The Foundation of Creighton University

Creighton University's story began with a generous gift from Mary Lucretia Creighton, who sought to honor her late husband, Edward Creighton, a successful businessman with interests in cattle ranching, banking, and the development of the transcontinental telegraph line. Edward's brother, John A. Creighton, and his wife, Sarah Emily Wareham, played crucial roles in the university's early development. Sarah Emily Creighton's vision led to the construction of St. John's Collegiate Chapel in 1888, providing a place of worship for students. The College of Arts and Sciences was established in 1878, becoming the largest division of the university.

The Bluejay Mascot: A Symbol of Creighton Spirit

The Creighton Bluejays, competing in NCAA Division I and the BIG EAST Conference, represent the university's athletic spirit. The origin of the Bluejay mascot can be traced back to the Omaha Bee. Over time, the realistic blue jay evolved into the beloved Billy Bluejay, who first appeared in the 1941 yearbook.

Alumni Spotlight: Making a Difference in the World

Creighton University has produced a diverse array of successful alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. Here are some notable examples:

Doug and Ellen Wells: Champions of Community and Education

Doug and Ellen Wells, graduates of Creighton University, exemplify the university's values through their commitment to community and education. Doug Wells, a third-generation retired Director/Owner of Wells Enterprises, and Ellen Wells, a former special education teacher, have dedicated their lives to serving others.

Read also: A Guide to Creighton Academics

Doug, who earned his business degree in 1976, played a key role in the growth of Wells Enterprises, eventually overseeing the construction of the world's largest frozen dairy dessert facility. He retired from day-to-day operations in 2007 but continued to serve on the company's board, helping guide the successful sale of Wells Enterprises in 2023.

Ellen, who graduated magna cum laude from the College of Arts and Sciences in 1976, pursued her passion for education, teaching in Omaha, Spencer, and Le Mars. She continues to champion education through her involvement in the P.E.O. Sisterhood, helping women pursue their academic goals.

The Wells' support of Creighton includes the Doug and Ellen Wells Endowed Scholarship, which gives preference to students from Gehlen Catholic, Le Mars Community Schools, and the surrounding area. "Through our support, we hope to give other students the same incredible experience we had at Creighton," Ellen says.

Roselle Visenio: Advocate for Justice and Service

Roselle Visenio, a graduate with a Bachelor of Social Work from Creighton University in 2015 and a Juris Doctor from New England Law Boston in 2018, has built a career grounded in service. She has worked in the Health, Education and Law Project at Legal Aid of Nebraska and currently serves with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Visenio's involvement in service and justice initiatives during her time at Creighton, including the Cortina Community, SCSJ service trips, and the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice, shaped her path. She remains closely connected to Creighton, volunteering with the Creighton Admissions Partner program and the Recent Alumni Academy.

Read also: Creighton Prep Affordability

John “Jack” D. Diesing, Jr. and Terri C.: Community Leaders and Philanthropists

John "Jack" D. Diesing, Jr. and Terri C. are dedicated civic leaders who have made a significant impact on the Omaha community. Jack served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War before embarking on a successful career in the insurance industry. Terri has contributed her time and talent to numerous Omaha organizations, including the Omaha Public Library Foundation, Joslyn Art Museum, Lauritzen Gardens, Salvation Army, Durham Museum, and Child Saving Institute.

Together, Jack and Terri have played a major role in the growth and success of the College World Series of Omaha. Jack has been the president of the organization since 1989, helping transform the CWS into one of the nation's premier sporting events. Terri has worked behind the scenes to support the CWS for more than 40 years.

The Diesings are also active supporters of Creighton University's Jesuit mission and have been generous hosts of alumni and community events.

Cliftron "Cliff" L. Brunt: Award-Winning Sportswriter and Community Servant

Cliftron "Cliff" L. Brunt, a 1996 graduate of Creighton University, has built a life around storytelling and service. He is an award-winning sportswriter for The Associated Press, based in Oklahoma City.

Brunt, a native of North Omaha, was honored in 2022 as a North High Viking of Distinction for his professional achievements and community service. He has volunteered as a youth football and basketball coach, helped organize Thanksgiving meal drives for families in need, and has supported future journalists through a scholarship for minority students at Omaha North High School.

Throughout his career, Brunt has covered marquee sporting events, including the Super Bowl, the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Final Fours, the NBA Finals, the WNBA Finals, and the Indianapolis 500. He has also covered four Summer Olympic Games.

Kathy Keough Soto: Compassionate Nurse and Philanthropist

Kathy Keough Soto's nursing career is a calling shaped by family, faith, and a Creighton education. A strong believer in Catholic education, Soto launched her nursing career in Texas, caring for patients in obstetrics and pediatric intensive care units.

Soto has remained deeply connected to her alma mater and her family's legacy of philanthropy. She co-founded the Soto Nursing Scholars Program, which prepares compassionate, culturally responsive nurses who are dedicated to advancing health equity and social justice.

Anthony A. Houston: Healthcare Leader Focused on Equity and Excellence

Dr. Anthony Houston has spent more than 25 years transforming the way care is delivered, always with a focus on equity, excellence, and the common good. He currently leads one of Arizona's largest and most complex health systems.

Houston's healthcare journey began as a hospital orderly, a role that ignited his passion for patient care. He describes his leadership as shaped by Jesuit principles-especially the call to serve others, promote justice, and reflect on one’s actions and purpose.

Paul W. Markwardt: Expert in Tax and Real Estate Law

Paul W. Markwardt, an alumnus of Creighton University, is nationally known for his expertise in tax and real estate law. He works as an attorney at Winthrop & Weinstine in the Twin Cities.

Markwardt's passion for gardening, rooted in childhood, continues to thrive. He champions a mission that reflects his values: gardening for health, cultivating community, and promoting sustainability.

Stephen G. Nikodem: Innovator in Orthodontic Care

Dr. Stephen G. Nikodem, a 1991 graduate of the Creighton School of Dentistry, has reshaped orthodontic care through innovation and mentorship. He is the inventor of the widely used Nikodem Spring.

Before entering dentistry, Nikodem was a standout athlete. He followed in the footsteps of his father and chose a career in dentistry. Nikodem's dedication to Jesuit values and dental education continues to shine through his service on the School of Dentistry Alumni Advisory Board.

Ronald R. Volkmer: Dedicated Legal Professional

Ronald R. Volkmer, a Nebraska native and double alumnus of Creighton, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in history in 1966 and earned his juris doctor in 1968. He is grateful for the scholarship he received to attend law school and has dedicated his career to upholding the Jesuit value of magis.

Other Notable Alumni

In addition to those highlighted above, Creighton University boasts a wide range of accomplished alumni, including:

Kyle Korver: A former professional basketball player and current assistant general manager for the Atlanta Hawks, known for his exceptional three-point shooting skills.
Leo Ryan: A former U.S. Representative from California, remembered for his tragic assassination during the Jonestown massacre.
Bob Gibson: A legendary baseball pitcher who played his entire career for the St. Louis Cardinals, known for his fierce competitiveness and numerous accolades.
Doug McDermott: A professional basketball player for the Sacramento Kings, recognized for his outstanding college career at Creighton, where he led the nation in scoring.
Paul Gosar: A U.S. Representative for Arizona, known for his conservative views and controversial statements.
Virginia Thomas: A lawyer and conservative activist, married to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.
Michael P. Anderson: A NASA astronaut who tragically died in the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster.
Kobe Paras: A Filipino professional basketball player.
Paul Silas: A former professional basketball player and coach.
Pat Venditte: A former professional baseball pitcher known for his ambidextrous pitching ability.
Porter Moser: The current head coach of the University of Oklahoma men's basketball team.
Anthony Tolliver: A former professional basketball player.
Joe Ricketts: The founder and former CEO of TD Ameritrade, a billionaire businessman and philanthropist.
Scott Servais: The current coach for the San Diego Padres of Major League Baseball.
Madeleine Leininger: A nursing theorist and developer of the concept of transcultural nursing.
Symone D. Sanders-Townsend: A political strategist and commentator.
Darin Ruf: A former professional baseball player.
Ernie Chambers: A politician and civil rights activist.
Mike Johanns: A former U.S. Senator from Nebraska and former Secretary of Agriculture.
Francis George: A Catholic priest, theologian, and Archbishop of Chicago.
Nicky Lopez: A professional baseball player in the Chicago Cubs organization.
Fabian Herbers: A professional soccer player for CF Montréal.
Khyri Thomas: A professional basketball player.
Ethan Finlay: A professional soccer player for Austin FC.
Baylor Scheierman: A professional basketball player for the Boston Celtics.
Marcus Zegarowski: A professional basketball player.
Ty-Shon Alexander: A professional basketball player.
Ty Blach: A professional baseball pitcher.
Duncan McGuire: A professional soccer player for Orlando City.
Tom Fadden: An actor.
Justin Carter: A professional basketball player.
Dave McKay: A baseball coach.
Roman Hruska: A former U.S. Senator from Nebraska.
Barbara Cubin: A former U.S. Representative for Wyoming.
Ryan Kalkbrenner: A college basketball player for the Creighton Bluejays.
Gregory Echenique: A professional basketball player.
Brian O'Connor: The head baseball coach of the Virginia Cavaliers.
Frank Waln: A rapper and activist.

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