Notable Alumni of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) has a long and distinguished history of producing notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, including business, politics, arts, sciences, and athletics. This article highlights some of the most prominent graduates, instructors, and administrators affiliated with the university.

Introduction

As a dynamic list, it may never be able to satisfy particular standards for completeness. This article aims to provide an overview of some of the most notable individuals who have passed through the halls of this esteemed institution.

Prominent Figures in Business and Entrepreneurship

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has a strong tradition of fostering entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen. Several alumni have achieved remarkable success in the corporate world, leaving their mark on industries ranging from finance to technology.

Warren Buffett, perhaps the most well-known alumnus of UNL, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in business administration in 1950. He is an American investor, business magnate, and philanthropist who serves as the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. As of October 2024, his net worth was estimated at $147 billion, making him one of the wealthiest people in the world. His success in investment has made him one of the best-known investors in the world.

Vinod Gupta earned his M.S. in 1969 and an M.B.A. from UNL. He is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, known for his contributions to business and education.

Evan Williams is an American billionaire technology entrepreneur. He founded Blogger and Medium. In 2014, he co-founded the venture capital firm Obvious Ventures. As of February 2022, his net worth is estimated at US$2.1 billion.

Sue Wilkinson is president and chief operating officer of Lincoln-based Ameritas, one of the country’s most-recognized insurance companies. Over her 30-year career with Ameritas, she has held key leadership roles including chief planning officer, chief risk officer and chief financial officer.

Influential Figures in Politics and Public Service

UNL has also produced numerous leaders who have served in various levels of government, shaping public policy and contributing to the betterment of society.

Deb Fischer graduated with a Bachelor of Science in 1988. She is an American politician and former educator serving as the senior United States senator from Nebraska, a seat she has held since 2013.

Bob Kerrey served as the 35th governor of Nebraska from 1983 to 1987 and as a United States Senator from Nebraska from 1989 to 2001.

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Chuck Hagel, though not a graduate, is a former United States Senator from Nebraska and Secretary of Defense.

Howard Homan Buffett studied at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln in 1925. He was an American businessman, investor, and politician. He was a four-term Republican United States Representative for the state of Nebraska.

Kārlis Ulmanis was a Latvian politician and a dictator. He was one of the most prominent Latvian politicians of pre-World War II Latvia during the Interwar period of independence from November 1918 to June 1940 and served as the country's first prime minister.

Notable Figures in Arts and Entertainment

Many UNL alumni have excelled in the arts and entertainment industry, captivating audiences with their creativity and talent.

Johnny Carson was an American television host, comedian, and writer best known as the host of NBC's The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (1962-1992).

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Jaime King is an American actress and model.

Stephanie Kurtzuba is an American film, television, and theater actress.

Barbara Hendricks is an American operatic soprano and concert singer.

James Valentine is an American musician who is the lead guitarist and backing vocalist for the pop band Maroon 5.

Larry the Cable Guy, whose real name is Daniel Lawrence Whitney, is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and former radio personality.

Accomplished Individuals in Sports

UNL has a rich athletic tradition, and its alumni have achieved remarkable success in various sports, both as players and coaches.

Tyronn Lue is an American professional basketball coach and former player who is the head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers of the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Ndamukong Suh played college football for the Nebraska Cornhuskers and was selected by the Detroit Lions second overall in the 2010 NFL draft.

Scott Frost is an American football coach and player who is the current head coach for the UCF Knights.

Jordan Burroughs is an American freestyle wrestler.

Alex Gordon is an American former professional baseball left fielder who played his entire career for the Kansas City Royals of Major League Baseball (MLB) from 2007 to 2020.

Keisei Tominaga is a Japanese professional basketball player for the Indiana Mad Ants of the NBA G League. He played college basketball for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, after having previously played for Ranger College.

Luke McCaffrey is an American professional football wide receiver and return specialist for the Washington Commanders of the National Football League (NFL).

Merlene Ottey is a Jamaican-Slovenian former track and field sprinter. She began her career representing Jamaica in 1978 and continued to do so for 24 years before representing Slovenia from 2002 to 2012.

Influential Figures in Academia and Science

UNL has also produced numerous scholars and scientists who have made significant contributions to their respective fields, advancing knowledge and shaping the future.

Alan J. Heeger (B.S. 1957; honorary Ph.D.) is a Nobel laureate in Chemistry.

Edward C. (B.S. 1895; M. A. 1896; Ph.D. 1899) was a prominent educator.

Nancy Coover Andreasen is a neuroscientist and expert in mental illness.

Londa Schiebinger is a historian of science.

Gene V. Glass is a statistician and education researcher.

Other Notable Alumni

In addition to the individuals mentioned above, there are many other notable alumni of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln who have made significant contributions in various fields.

Karen Blessen (B. F. A.) is a Pulitzer Prize-winning artist.

Ted Kooser (M. A.) is a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet.

Marjie Lundstrom (B.A.) is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist.

Roxane Gay (M. A., Ph.D.) is a writer and cultural critic.

Mary Pipher (Ph.D.) is a clinical psychologist and author.

Joel Sartore (B.A.) is a National Geographic photographer.

Jeff Zeleny (B.A.) is a CNN journalist.

Adrian Smith (B.S.) is an architect known for designing skyscrapers.

Alumni Masters Program

The Nebraska Alumni Association recognizes outstanding alumni through the Alumni Masters program. This program connects alumni with students, offering valuable insights from their experiences and achievements.

The 2025 Alumni Masters include:

Hilary Maricle (’01, ’03): Deputy director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture.
Vanessa Schutte (’01): Principal of DLR Group, a global architecture, engineering and design firm.
John Rood (’87): Chief marketing officer for consumer intelligence firm Magid.
Sue Wilkinson (’90): President and chief operating officer of Lincoln-based Ameritas.
Kisha M. Radliff (’00, ’05): Program chair of the School Psychology program at Ohio State University.
Justin Vala (’03): Senior vice president of engineering and construction for Tenaska Development.
Jay Wilkinson (’88): Entrepreneur and philanthropist, founder of Firespring.
Donald Gorder (’73): Chair emeritus and founder of the Music Business/Music Management Department at Berklee College of Music.
Jon Clifton (’08): CEO of Gallup.

Alumni Award Winners

The Nebraska Alumni Association also recognizes alumni for their distinguished service and public service.

The 2025 Alumni Award Winners include:

Jane Green (’82, ’83): Co-founder of Nebraska’s Women in Agriculture Program.
Sen. Deb Fischer (’88): United States Senator from Nebraska.

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