Notable Alabama State University Alumni

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Located in the heart of Montgomery, Alabama, Alabama State University (ASU) has a rich history of producing talented and influential alumni. From renowned artists to distinguished politicians, ASU's graduates have made significant contributions to various fields. Here, we'll take a closer look at some of the most notable Alabama State University alumni.

Arts and Entertainment

ASU has a strong legacy of fostering creative talent, with several notable alumni making a name for themselves in the arts and entertainment industry.

• Toni Morrison (Honorary Degree)

  Although Morrison did not attend ASU as a student, the university awarded her an honorary degree in 1996. A Nobel laureate and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Morrison is best known for her novels, including "Beloved" and "The Bluest Eye".

• Octavia Spencer (Class of 1994)

  This talented actress earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts from ASU. Spencer has appeared in a range of films, including "The Help," "Fruitvale Station," and "Hidden Figures," earning numerous awards and nominations, including an Academy Award.

• Afghanistan Jones (Class of 2001)

  A critically acclaimed poet, writer, and educator, Jones received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from ASU. He has published several collections of poetry and has been recognized for his work with the National Endowment for the Arts.

Politics and Public Service

ASU has a long history of producing leaders who have made significant contributions to politics and public service.

• Vivian Malone Jones (Class of 1965)

  A pioneering civil rights activist, Jones was one of the first African American students to attend the University of Alabama. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education from ASU and went on to work with the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

• Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed (Class of 1994)

  Reed earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from ASU. He served as a probate judge in Montgomery County before being elected as the city's mayor in 2019.

• U.S. Congressman Earl F. Hilliard (Class of 1967)

  Hilliard earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from ASU. He went on to serve in the Alabama House of Representatives and was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1992, representing Alabama's 7th congressional district.

Sports

ASU has a strong athletic program, with several notable alumni achieving success in various sports.

• Deandre Jackson (Class of 2001)

  A standout football player, Jackson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from ASU. He went on to play professionally for the NFL's New York Giants and Indianapolis Colts.

• Cynthia Cooper (Class of 1986)

  A four-time Olympic gold medalist and two-time WNBA champion, Cooper earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from ASU. She was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010.

• Marquis Johnson (Class of 2011)

  A talented football player, Johnson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from ASU. He went on to play professionally for the NFL's Buffalo Bills and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

In conclusion, Alabama State University has a rich legacy of producing talented and influential alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields. From arts and entertainment to politics and public service, ASU's graduates have demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a passion for making a positive impact on the world.

We invite you to share your thoughts on the notable alumni of Alabama State University. Which alumnus inspires you the most, and why? Share your comments below!