Notable Alumni of Rockhurst University
Rockhurst University, a private Jesuit institution in Kansas City, Missouri, has a rich history of producing graduates who have made significant contributions in various fields. Founded in 1910, the university emphasizes a values-based education rooted in the Ignatian tradition, focusing on leadership, service, and lifelong learning. This article highlights some of the university's most notable alumni, showcasing their diverse achievements and impact on society.
Overview of Rockhurst University
Rockhurst University's foundation dates back to 1909 when Fr. Michael Dowling, S.J., acquired land for the establishment of Rockhurst College. The institution officially opened in August 1910 and held its first classes in 1917. Throughout its history, Rockhurst has remained committed to providing a comprehensive education, integrating academic rigor with community engagement.
The university's dedication to service is evident in its students' extensive involvement in community projects. A significant portion of the student body participates in service activities, contributing thousands of hours annually to the Kansas City area and beyond. This commitment has earned Rockhurst recognition from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.
Rockhurst University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, designed to prepare students for leadership roles in their respective fields. The university's campus includes residence halls, academic buildings, and athletic facilities, fostering a vibrant and supportive learning environment.
Notable Alumni
Rockhurst University has produced a diverse array of accomplished alumni who have excelled in various fields, including politics, entertainment, sports, and academia. The following sections highlight some of these notable individuals and their contributions.
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Politics and Government
Several Rockhurst University alumni have distinguished themselves in the realm of politics and government, serving at local, state, and national levels.
Sly James: Sylvester "Sly" James, Jr., a Rockhurst alumnus, served as the 54th mayor of Kansas City, Missouri, from 2011 to 2019. Known for his distinctive bow ties, James made significant contributions to the city during his tenure.
Joseph P. Teasdale: Joseph Patrick Teasdale, a lawyer and politician, served as the 48th Governor of Missouri from 1977 to 1981. Prior to his governorship, Teasdale was a prosecutor for Jackson County, Missouri.
Herbert Harris: Herbert Eugene Harris II represented Virginia in the United States House of Representatives for three consecutive terms, from 1975 to 1981.
Joseph Urusemal: Joseph John "Joe" Urusemal served as the sixth President of the Federated States of Micronesia from 2003 to 2007.
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Hector Barreto: Hector Vincent Barreto Jr. served as the head of the Small Business Administration. George W. Bush nominated him to the post.
Tom Dempsey: Thomas Dwayne Dempsey is an American restaurateur and former Republican politician, previously serving in the Missouri Senate as President Pro Tempore.
Art Staed: Art Staed is a current Iowa State Representative from the 80th District.
Arts and Entertainment
Rockhurst University has also produced notable figures in the arts and entertainment industry, including actors and photographers.
George Wendt: George Robert Wendt Jr. is an American actor best known for his role as Norm Peterson on the NBC sitcom Cheers. His performance earned him six consecutive nominations for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Wendt has also appeared in numerous films and stage productions.
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Arnaldo Anaya-Lucca: Arnaldo Anaya-Lucca is a Puerto Rican fashion photographer. After earning a BBA degree, he left the corporate world, establishing himself in the fashion industry through his work with the Ralph Lauren Corporation.
Wild Bill Elliott: Wild Bill Elliott was an American film actor. He specialized in playing the rugged heroes of B Westerns, particularly the Red Ryder series of films.
Academia and Religion
Several Rockhurst University alumni have made significant contributions to academia and religion, serving as scholars, priests, and bishops.
Walter J. Ong: Walter Jackson Ong SJ was an American Jesuit priest, professor of English literature, cultural and religious historian, and philosopher. His work explored the influence of the transition from orality to literacy on culture and human consciousness. In 1978, he served as president of the Modern Language Association.
Alphonse Gallegos: Alphonse Gallegos, OAR, served as Auxiliary Bishop of Sacramento from 1981 until his death in 1991. He was known as the "Bishop of the Barrios."
Paul A. Lombardo: Paul A. Lombardo is an American legal historian known for his work on the legacy of eugenics and sterilization in the United States.
Athletics
Rockhurst University alumni have also achieved success in the world of sports, both as players and coaches.
Ray Chang: Raymond Bo-shue Chang is a Chinese American former professional baseball infielder. He played in the World Baseball Classics for the Chinese national team.
Tom Heinemann: Tom Heinemann is an American former professional soccer player who is currently an assistant coach for Major League Soccer club Chicago Fire.
Paul Ammatelli: Paul D. Paul Ammatelli is universally remembered as one of the top players for the Soccer Hawklets as the school's program matured in the early-80's
Bob Bauers: W. L. A three-year letterman in basketball, Bob Bauers of the Class of 1963 developed into one of the most feared and respected big men in Kansas City.
Jonathon R. Jon Benson: Jon Benson of the great Class of 2010 played a key role in the Rockhurst AquaHawks winning four consecutive Team State Championships between 2006 and 2009.
Matthew W. Matt Benson: Matt Benson of the great Class of 2010 remains among the AquaHawk greats for his accomplishments in three State Championship Meets, which all resulted in Rockhurst victories.
E. Tony: Tony earned his spot on the football field as just a sophomore. Considered “undersized” by appearance, he was said to be the hardest hitter on the field, pound for pound.
Daniel L. Dan Boyd: Dan Boyd of the great Class of 2003 stood out on the football field in many aspects.
Peter C. Peter and William J. Krizman: Peter and William J. Krizman `76 were without a doubt one of the most powerful tennis teams in the history of the State and Rockhurst High School.
Douglas A.: Former athlete, former basketball coach, former athletic director. Coach Doug Bruce left his imprint on Rockhurst High School in many ways - as an athlete, a coach, a teacher, and most recently as the athletic director.
Brad E.: Brad is considered one of the top offensive and defensive linemen in Rockhurst High School history.
Patrick J.: Patrick was the ever-rare athletic big man. He was a 6’6” three sport athlete who, between football, basketball and track, never wanted to take a season off.
Michael A.: Michael was a head above most players on the soccer field, in more ways than one. A towering defender, Michael rarely allowed opposing forwards to even have the opportunity to score.
Aaron R.: Aaron Clevinger of the great Class of 2000 was an immediate impact player for the Rockhurst lacrosse program.
Jason L.: Jason was instrumental in Rockhurst Soccer winning its first State Title in 1998 and helping build the program into the powerhouse it is today.
David B.: It’s weird to think that the most accomplished Major League Baseball player to ever come out of Rockhurst did not actually play baseball for the Hawklets.
Sean T.: Sean was the first lacrosse star not just at Rockhurst, but also in Kansas City.
John A.: John was absolutely vital in bringing back Rockhurst basketball dominance in the late-80s.
Jeffrey S.: Jeffrey was the athletic big man that Rockhurst coaches dream about. Along with his size and strength, Jeffrey was sports savvy enough to translate his athleticism to success in three different sports: football, basketball and track & field.
Jerome C.: Jerry Culver enjoyed a stellar football coaching career at Rockhurst.
Christopher K.: After transferring in as a sophomore, Chris had to sit out. But he made up for it, earning two letters in both football and basketball.
Christopher G.: Chris was the last person opposing teams wanted to see when walking onto the soccer field.
Matthew R.: Matt Darby of the great Class of 2000 was pivotal in Rock Soccer winning the first State Championships in program history.
Samuel S.: Sam Davidson of the great Class of 2001 was at the heart of a dominant Rockhurst tennis program that won 10 consecutive State Championships from 1996-2005.
Alton Davis, Jr.:
James C. Dorlac, Sr.: Jim was the conductor during the best two-year stretch in Rockhurst football history.
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