portland state university notable alumni

Guri Bee

2 min read

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21-10-2024

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From Trailblazers to Trailblazers: Notable Alumni of Portland State University

Portland State University (PSU) is known for its vibrant urban campus and commitment to accessible education. But what about the remarkable individuals who have walked its halls and gone on to make their mark on the world?

Today, we'll explore the diverse and inspiring journeys of some of PSU's most notable alumni. From sports stars and entrepreneurs to artists and activists, these individuals demonstrate the power of PSU's education to propel students to success in a variety of fields.

Sports Stars:

• Terrell Owens, NFL Wide Receiver: Owens, a legendary wide receiver, spent 15 seasons in the NFL, racking up numerous records and accolades. He began his collegiate football career at PSU, where he earned All-American honors and led the Vikings to their first-ever NCAA Division I-AA playoff appearance. Source: PSU Athletics

• LaMichael James, NFL Running Back: James, a standout running back for the Vikings, became the first PSU player drafted in the first round of the NFL draft. He went on to play for the San Francisco 49ers and the Miami Dolphins. Source: PSU Athletics

Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders:

• Jeff Bezos, Founder of Amazon: While Bezos didn't graduate from PSU, he did take computer science classes there before transferring to Princeton. This experience helped set the foundation for his future success. Source: The Oregonian

• John McAfee, Software Entrepreneur: McAfee, a controversial figure, is best known for founding McAfee Antivirus software. He studied mathematics at PSU before transferring to the University of Alabama. Source: Wikipedia

Artists and Creatives:

• Julie Taymor, Filmmaker and Theatre Director: Taymor, a renowned director, is known for her work on films such as "Frida" and "Across the Universe." She also directed the Broadway production of "The Lion King." Taymor studied theatre at PSU, honing her skills in directing and puppetry. Source: PSU Theatre

• David Foster Wallace, Novelist and Essayist: Wallace, a critically acclaimed writer, is known for his experimental novels, including "Infinite Jest." He earned his bachelor's degree in English from PSU. Source: Wikipedia

Activists and Social Justice Leaders:

• John Trudell, Native American Activist: Trudell, a renowned activist, was a member of the American Indian Movement (AIM). He used his platform to advocate for Indigenous rights and speak out against injustice. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in political science from PSU. Source: Wikipedia

• Michael Moore, Documentary Filmmaker: Moore, a controversial figure, is known for his investigative documentaries, such as "Bowling for Columbine" and "Fahrenheit 9/11." He studied film at PSU and used his platform to address social issues. Source: PSU Film

Beyond the Notable:

These are just a few examples of the many successful alumni of PSU. The university's commitment to diversity, accessibility, and experiential learning has empowered countless individuals to achieve their dreams and make a difference in the world.

By studying the achievements of PSU's alumni, we can gain valuable insights into the power of education to transform lives and shape the future. The stories of these trailblazers are a testament to the enduring legacy of Portland State University.