Hofstra University: A Legacy of Notable Alumni
Hofstra University, ranked 403rd globally and 147th in the United States for alumni prominence, has fostered a diverse array of accomplished individuals across various fields. This article explores the remarkable achievements and contributions of some of its most notable graduates and former students.
Arts and Entertainment
Hofstra University has a strong presence in the entertainment industry, with alumni making significant contributions as actors, directors, writers, and musicians.
Film and Television
Francis Ford Coppola, a towering figure in American cinema, stands out as one of Hofstra's most illustrious alumni. As a director, screenwriter, and producer, Coppola is celebrated for his contributions to the New Hollywood era, with such iconic films as "The Godfather". His work has garnered numerous accolades, including five Academy Awards, solidifying his place as one of the greatest directors of all time.
Christopher Walken, another prominent alumnus, is renowned for his distinctive acting style and diverse roles in film and television. His career has spanned decades, earning him an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Walken's films have grossed over $1.6 billion in the United States alone, a testament to his enduring appeal.
James Caan, known for his memorable portrayal of Sonny Corleone in "The Godfather," received Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for Best Supporting Actor for his performance. He was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1978.
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Madeline Kahn, a versatile actress, comedian, and singer, is celebrated for her comedic roles in films by Peter Bogdanovich and Mel Brooks, including "What's Up, Doc?" (1972), "Young Frankenstein" (1974), and "Blazing Saddles" (1974). She received Academy Award nominations for her performances in "Paper Moon" (1973) and "Blazing Saddles".
Rosemarie DeWitt has made her mark in television and film, starring in the series "Standoff" and "United States of Tara." She garnered acclaim for her role in "Rachel Getting Married" (2008) and appeared in the Oscar-winning film "La La Land."
Robert Davi has appeared in over 130 films, including "The Goonies" (1985), "Die Hard" (1988), and "Licence to Kill" (1989). He also starred in the television series "Profiler" (1996-2000).
Lainie Kazan, a multifaceted actress and singer, earned Emmy and Tony Award nominations for her work in "St. Elsewhere" and "My Favorite Year," respectively. She is also known for her role in the "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" franchise.
Joe Morton has had a prolific career in film, television, and theater, with roles in movies such as "Terminator 2: Judgment Day" (1991), "Speed" (1994), and "Justice League" (2017).
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Susan Sullivan is known for her roles in television series such as "Another World" (1971-76), "Falcon Crest" (1981-90), and "Dharma & Greg" (1997-2002).
Margaret Colin has appeared in films like "Independence Day" and television series such as "As the World Turns" and "Gossip Girl."
Carol Alt is an American model and actress.
Mike Starr is an American character actor. Tall and burly with a deep voice, Starr often performs as mobsters, police officers, blue-collar workers or tough guys. He was a regular cast member on The Young and the Restless and Ed, and made appearances in the films Goodfellas, Dumb and Dumber and Billy Bathgate.
Elizabeth Dennehy has appeared in television series such as "Seinfeld" and "Star Trek: The Next Generation," as well as films like "Clear and Present Danger" and "Gattaca."
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Peter Friedman is a stage, film, and television actor. He earned a Tony Award nomination for his role in "Ragtime" (1998).
Olivia Longott, known professionally as Olivia, is an R&B singer and television personality who gained fame as a member of the hip hop group G-Unit and as a cast member on "Love & Hip Hop: New York."
Devale Ellis is an actor and former American football wide receiver, singer and rapper.
Behind the Camera
Philip Rosenthal is the creator, writer, and executive producer of the hit sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond" (1996-2005). He has also presented food and travel documentaries such as "Somebody Feed Phil" on Netflix.
Avi Arad is a prominent figure in the world of comic book adaptations, having served as the chief creative officer of Marvel Entertainment and the founder of Marvel Studios. He has produced numerous live-action, animated, and television comic book adaptations.
Music
August Darnell, also known as Kid Creole, is the co-founder of Dr.
Law and Politics
Hofstra University's alumni include influential figures in law, politics, and government service.
Maryanne Trump Barry, an attorney and United States federal judge, graduated with Juris Doctor from Hofstra University. She served as an assistant United States attorney and was appointed to the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey by President Ronald Reagan in 1983. In 1999, she was appointed to the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit by President Bill Clinton.
David Paterson served as the 55th governor of New York from 2008 to 2010, becoming the first African-American governor of New York.
Mary Matalin is a Republican political consultant who has served under Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush, as well as Vice President Dick Cheney.
Norm Coleman is an American politician, attorney, and lobbyist. From 2003 to 2009, he served as a United States Senator for Minnesota. From 1994 to 2002, he was mayor of Saint Paul, Minnesota.
Business and Entrepreneurship
Hofstra University has produced successful business leaders and entrepreneurs who have made their mark in various industries.
Jonathan Cheban, also known as Foodgod, is a reality television personality, entrepreneur, and former publicist.
Michael Franzese is a former mobster who was a caporegime in the Colombo crime family. He later became a motivational speaker and writer.
Pamela Geller is an American anti-Muslim, far-right political activist, blogger and commentator.
Several alumni are listed with abbreviated degree information, suggesting notable careers in business: David B. Lawrence, C. Jonathan D., Victor Ricciardi B.B.A., Morton O., Charles Kushner, J.D., Ralph S. Larsen, B.B.A., Bernie Madoff, B.S., Kathryn V. Marinello, M.B.A., James C. Metzger, B.A., Scott Ross, B.S., Steven C. Witkoff, B.A. 1980, J.D., Frank G., Timothy S., Owen H., Peter S., Norman F., David A., Robert O., Peter J., Luis R., Thomas C., Robbie Rosen, B.S., Susan H., Eliot Wald, B.A..
Sports
Hofstra University's alumni have also achieved success in the world of sports.
Chris Weidman is a professional mixed martial artist and former UFC Middleweight Champion.
Jon Cooper is the head coach for the Tampa Bay Lightning of the National Hockey League (NHL). Cooper won back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021.
Devale Ellis is an actor and former American football wide receiver, singer and rapper.
Other Notable Alumni
Ron Kovic is an anti-war activist, author, and Vietnam War veteran. His memoir, "Born on the Fourth of July," was made into an acclaimed film.
Nelson DeMille is an author of action adventure and suspense novels, including "Plum Island" and "The General's Daughter."
Meredith Eaton is an actress known for her roles in television series such as "Family Law" and "Boston Legal."
Alan Colmes was a radio and television host, liberal political commentator, and blogger.
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