Loyola University New Orleans Most Notable Alumni

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Loyola University New Orleans, a private Jesuit university, has a long history of fostering talented individuals who have gone on to make significant contributions in various fields. The university's commitment to academic excellence, combined with its strong sense of community and social responsibility, has enabled its alumni to excel in their chosen careers.

Notable Alumni in Politics and Government

Loyola University New Orleans has a proud tradition of producing leaders who have made a positive impact in the world of politics and government. Some notable alumni include:

• Lindy Boggs (B.A. 1935): A former U.S. Representative from Louisiana, Boggs was the first woman to represent the state in Congress. She was a strong advocate for women's rights and education.
• Moon Landrieu (B.A. 1952, J.D. 1954): A former U.S. Representative from Louisiana and Mayor of New Orleans, Landrieu was a pioneer in the civil rights movement and played a key role in the desegregation of New Orleans.
• Mitch Landrieu (B.A. 1982): A former Mayor of New Orleans and Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana, Landrieu is known for his efforts to rebuild and revitalize the city after Hurricane Katrina.

Notable Alumni in the Arts and Entertainment

Loyola University New Orleans has a thriving arts community, and many of its alumni have gone on to achieve great success in the entertainment industry. Some notable alumni include:

• Harry Connick Jr. (B.M. 1986): A renowned jazz pianist, singer, and actor, Connick has released numerous critically acclaimed albums and has appeared in films such as "Independence Day" and "Hope Floats."
• Patricia Clarkson (B.A. 1987): An award-winning actress, Clarkson has appeared in films such as "Far from Heaven" and "Whiskey Tango Foxtrot," as well as television shows like "Six Feet Under" and "Parks and Recreation."
• Anika Noni Rose (B.A. 2003): A Tony Award-winning actress, Rose has appeared in films such as "Dreamgirls" and "For Colored Girls," as well as Broadway productions like "Caroline, or Change."

Notable Alumni in Business and Entrepreneurship

Loyola University New Orleans has a strong reputation for producing business leaders who are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in today's fast-paced economy. Some notable alumni include:

• James J. Reiss Jr. (B.A. 1973, J.D. 1976): A successful entrepreneur and businessman, Reiss is the founder and CEO of Reiss Companies, a diversified investment firm with interests in real estate, energy, and technology.
• Stephen W. Bailey (B.S. 1983, M.B.A. 1985): A veteran executive and entrepreneur, Bailey has held leadership positions at several major companies, including IBM and GE Healthcare.
• Joyce M. Roché (B.S. 1973): A highly respected business leader, Roché has held executive positions at several major companies, including AT&T and Xerox.

Notable Alumni in Education and Research

Loyola University New Orleans has a long tradition of producing educators and researchers who are dedicated to making a positive impact in their fields. Some notable alumni include:

• Albert Somit (Ph.D. 1966): A renowned expert in the field of political science, Somit is a former president of Southern Illinois University and has written extensively on topics related to politics and governance.
• James D. Kirylo (Ed.D. 1994): A highly respected educator and researcher, Kirylo is a professor of education at Southeastern Louisiana University and has written extensively on topics related to educational leadership and policy.
• Mary E. Fontenot (Ph.D. 2002): A veteran educator and researcher, Fontenot is a professor of psychology at Loyola University New Orleans and has written extensively on topics related to cognitive psychology and neuroscience.

Gallery of Loyola University New Orleans Notable Alumni