Frostburg State University has produced a long list of distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to their fields and communities. Here are a few of the most notable:
Politicians and Government Officials
- Kathleen Kennedy Townsend (Class of 1974): Former Lieutenant Governor of Maryland and daughter of Senator Robert F. Kennedy
- Steny Hoyer (Class of 1963): U.S. Representative for Maryland’s 5th Congressional District and former House Majority Leader
- Wanita Wynn: Former Ambassador to Bangladesh
Business Leaders
- Christopher Carstens (Class of 1988): CEO of Siemens USA
- Thomas E. Donohue (Class of 1964): President and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce
- Michael Ilitch (Honorary Doctorate): Founder of Little Caesars Pizza and owner of the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers
Educators
- Mary Hatwood Futrell (Class of 1958): First African American woman to earn a doctorate in education from Harvard University
- JoAnn B. Hays (Class of 1973): President of McDaniel College
- Daniel R. Murray (Class of 1978): President of Allegheny College
Authors and Artists
- David Gessner (Class of 1983): Author and essayist known for his writing on nature and the outdoors
- John Hoppenthaler (Class of 1967): Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer
- Annie Proulx (Honorary Doctorate): Author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “The Shipping News”
Athletes
- Tom Chambers (Class of 1981): NBA All-Star and member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
- Sandi Morris (Class of 2016): Olympic bronze medalist in pole vaulting
- Jen Rhines (Class of 1997): Olympic gold medalist in softball
Frostburg State University alumni have made significant contributions to society in a variety of ways.
Public Service
Alumni have served in elected office at the local, state, and federal levels. They have also worked in government agencies and non-profit organizations to address important social issues.
Economic Development
Alumni have founded and led businesses that have created jobs and stimulated economic growth in the region. They have also been involved in community development initiatives to improve the quality of life for all residents.
Education
Alumni have served as teachers, administrators, and professors at schools and universities across the country. They have also been involved in educational research and policy development.
Arts and Culture
Alumni have produced works of art, literature, and music that have enriched the cultural landscape. They have also been involved in the preservation and promotion of historical sites and cultural traditions.
The Frostburg State University Alumni Association provides a variety of services and programs to its members, including:
- Networking opportunities
- Career development resources
- Alumni events and gatherings
- Opportunities to support the university
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the path to becoming a notable alumnus varies depending on individual goals and circumstances. However, there are some general tips that can help:
- Get involved on campus. Participate in student organizations, volunteer for community service projects, and attend campus events.
- Build relationships with faculty and staff. Get to know your professors and other members of the university community.
- Take advantage of resources. The university offers a variety of resources to help students succeed, such as the Career Center, the Writing Center, and the Math Lab.
- Study hard and do your best. Your academic record is important, but it is not the only thing that matters. Employers and other organizations also look for candidates with strong leadership skills, extracurricular activities, and a commitment to community service.
- Stay connected with the university after graduation. Attend alumni events, donate to the university, and mentor current students.
The impact of Frostburg State University alumni is far-reaching. They have made significant contributions to their fields, communities, and the world. The university is proud to have such a distinguished group of alumni and is committed to providing its students with the support and opportunities they need to achieve their own goals.