Notable Alumni of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) has a rich history of producing accomplished individuals across various fields. From arts and entertainment to sports, politics, and business, UNLV alumni have made significant impacts both locally and nationally. This article highlights some of the university's most notable graduates and former students, showcasing their diverse achievements and contributions.
A Legacy of Excellence: UNLV's Impactful Alumni
UNLV, a public land-grant research university, has grown from its humble beginnings as the Southern Division of the University of Nevada in 1957 to become a prominent institution of higher education. Its alumni have consistently demonstrated excellence in their respective fields, contributing to the university's reputation and legacy. The university is 406th in the world, 160th in North America, and 149th in the United States by aggregated alumni prominence.
Arts and Entertainment: From Stage to Screen
The College of Fine Arts at UNLV has become a leader in preparing students for careers in the arts. Alumni have become award-winning producers and directors; they have danced on Broadway and on the stages of some of the most extraordinary shows in the world; and they have designed award-winning resorts, golf courses, and gaming properties. The Hall of Fame was founded in 2003 to honor those who have made a significant impact in the areas of visual arts, performing arts, and/or architecture.
- Mat Franco: A 10-year Linq headlining magician and winner of 'America's Got Talent', Franco has captivated audiences with his innovative illusions and engaging performances.
- Cindy Doumani: An entertainment luminary, Doumani has made significant contributions to the Las Vegas entertainment scene.
- Francisco Menendez: A filmmaker and educator, Menendez has left a lasting impact on the world of cinema.
- Torrey Russell: Founder of Broadway in the HOOD and Recipient of the Koep Dean's Medal.
- Jonathan Karrant: A jazz vocalist who has garnered acclaim for his exceptional talent and captivating performances.
- Denise Wunderlich: An arts and music education advocate who has worked tirelessly to promote the importance of arts education in the community.
- Ryan Higa: Also known as nigahiga, is an American internet personality. Best known for his comedy videos on YouTube, Higa began making YouTube videos in 2006 and was one of the most popular creators on the platform in its early years.
- Jimmy Kimmel: An American actor, television host, comedian, writer, and producer. He has been the host and executive producer of Jimmy Kimmel Live! since 2003.
- Jo Koy: An American stand-up comedian and actor. He was a frequent panelist on E!'s late night show Chelsea Lately, and he has since had a total of six comedy specials released by Comedy Central and Netflix.
- RiceGum: Bryan Quang Le, better known as RiceGum, is an American YouTuber and online streamer. He is best known for his diss tracks and online feuds with other YouTube personalities.
- Anthony E. Zuiker: Is an American television writer, television producer, and author. He is best known as the creator and executive producer of the CSI: Crime Scene Investigation franchise, which includes CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, CSI: Miami, CSI: NY, and CSI: Cyber. He also produced the CBS drama Jericho.
Athletics: From College Courts to Professional Leagues
UNLV's athletic programs have produced numerous talented athletes who have gone on to excel in professional sports.
- Larry Johnson: A former professional basketball player who spent his career as a power forward with the Charlotte Hornets and the New York Knicks of the National Basketball Association (NBA). An NCAA champion and two-time NBA All-Star, Johnson is a member of the Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame and College Basketball Hall of Fame.
- Randall Cunningham: An American former professional football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 16 seasons. He spent the majority of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles.
- Shawn Marion: An American former professional basketball player who played 16 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Marion finished his career as a four-time NBA All-Star, a two-time member of the All-NBA Team and a one-time NBA champion, helping the Dallas Mavericks win their maiden title in 2011.
- Greg Anthony: An American former professional basketball player who is a television analyst for NBA TV and Turner Sports. He played 11 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
- Reggie Theus: An American basketball coach and former player. He played 13 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA), where he was a two-time NBA All-Star.
- Matt Williams: An American professional baseball manager and former third baseman who is the third base coach for the San Francisco Giants of Major League Baseball (MLB).
- Cecil Fielder: An American former professional baseball designated hitter and first baseman in Major League Baseball (MLB). Fielder was a power hitter in the 1980s and 1990s.
- Adam Scott: An Australian professional golfer. In 2000, Scott turned professional and quickly earned European Tour membership. He won four tour events early in his career.
- Anthony Bennett: A Canadian professional basketball player for the Formosa Dreamers of the Taiwan Professional Basketball League (TPBL). He played college basketball for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) for one year.
- Patrick McCaw: An American professional basketball player for the Delaware Blue Coats of the NBA G League. He played college basketball for the UNLV Runnin' Rebels and earned second-team all-conference honors in the Mountain West Conference (MWC) as a sophomore in 2016.
- Derrick Jones Jr: An American professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Clippers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the UNLV Runnin' Rebels.
- Christian Wood: An American professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the UNLV Runnin' Rebels.
- Ryback: Ryback Allen Reeves is an American retired professional wrestler and YouTuber. He is best known for his tenure with WWE, where he performed under the ring name Ryback.
Politics and Public Service: Shaping Nevada's Future
UNLV alumni have also made significant contributions to the political landscape of Nevada, serving in various elected and appointed positions.
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- Steve Sisolak: An American businessman and politician who served as the 30th governor of Nevada from 2019 to 2023. A member of the Democratic Party, he served on the Clark County Commission from 2009 to 2019 and on the Nevada Board of Regents from 1999 to 2008.
Other Notable Alumni: Diverse Fields, Shared Excellence
Beyond the realms of arts, sports, and politics, UNLV alumni have achieved success in a wide array of fields.
- Guy Fieri: An American restaurateur, author, and an Emmy Award-winning television presenter. He co-owned three now-defunct restaurants in California.
- Tomi Lahren: An American conservative political commentator and television presenter. She hosted Tomi on TheBlaze, where she gained attention for her short video segments called "final thoughts", in which she frequently criticized liberal politics.
- Gina Carano: An American actress and former mixed martial artist. She competed in Elite Xtreme Combat and Strikeforce from 2006 to 2009, where she compiled a 7-1 record.
- Ronnie Vannucci: An American musician, best known for being the drummer for the rock band the Killers.
- Eric Whitacre: An American composer, conductor, and speaker best known for his choral music.
- Flo Rida: Tramar Lacel Dillard, better known by his stage name Flo Rida, is an American rapper, singer and songwriter.
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