The University of New England (UNE) has a rich history of producing talented and accomplished alumni who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. From business and politics to arts and sciences, UNE graduates have left an indelible mark on the world. Here are 10 notable University of New England alumni who have achieved great success and recognition in their chosen careers.
1. Bill Conti - Renowned Composer
Bill Conti, a 1967 graduate of the University of New England, is a world-renowned composer and conductor. He is best known for his work on the iconic Rocky film series, for which he won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Gonna Fly Now." Conti's impressive career spans over five decades, with numerous film and television credits to his name.
Early Life and Education
Born on April 13, 1942, in Providence, Rhode Island, Conti grew up in a musical family. He began playing the piano at a young age and went on to study music at the University of New England. After graduating, Conti moved to New York City to pursue a career in music.
2. Victoria Reggie Kennedy - Attorney and Women's Rights Advocate
Victoria Reggie Kennedy, a 1979 graduate of the University of New England, is a prominent attorney and women's rights advocate. She is the president and CEO of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate and has worked tirelessly to promote education and civic engagement.
Early Life and Education
Born on February 26, 1954, in Crowley, Louisiana, Kennedy grew up in a family of modest means. She earned a scholarship to the University of New England, where she studied politics and government.
3. Angus King - U.S. Senator
Angus King, a 1969 graduate of the University of New England, is the senior United States Senator for Maine. He has had a long and distinguished career in politics, serving as a senator since 2013.
Early Life and Education
Born on March 31, 1944, in Alexandria, Virginia, King grew up in a family of politicians. He earned a degree in government from the University of New England and went on to earn a law degree from the University of Virginia.
4. Jonathan Lemire - Journalist and Author
Jonathan Lemire, a 2003 graduate of the University of New England, is a prominent journalist and author. He is currently the White House correspondent for the Associated Press and has written for numerous publications, including The New York Times and Politico.
Early Life and Education
Born on November 21, 1979, in Boston, Massachusetts, Lemire grew up in a family of journalists. He earned a degree in journalism from the University of New England and went on to earn a master's degree in journalism from Columbia University.
5. Daniel J. Boorstin - Historian and Librarian of Congress
Daniel J. Boorstin, a 1934 graduate of the University of New England, was a renowned historian and librarian of Congress. He is best known for his Pulitzer Prize-winning book, "The Americans: The Democratic Experience."
Early Life and Education
Born on October 1, 1914, in Atlanta, Georgia, Boorstin grew up in a family of intellectuals. He earned a degree in history from the University of New England and went on to earn a Ph.D. in history from Yale University.
6. Richard Neal - U.S. Representative
Richard Neal, a 1972 graduate of the University of New England, is the U.S. Representative for Massachusetts's 1st congressional district. He has served in Congress since 1989 and is currently the chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee.
Early Life and Education
Born on February 14, 1949, in Worcester, Massachusetts, Neal grew up in a family of politicians. He earned a degree in political science from the University of New England and went on to earn a master's degree in public administration from Harvard University.
7. Cokie Roberts - Journalist and Author
Cokie Roberts, a 1964 graduate of the University of New England, was a prominent journalist and author. She was a longtime commentator on NPR and wrote for numerous publications, including The New York Times and The Washington Post.
Early Life and Education
Born on December 27, 1943, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Roberts grew up in a family of politicians. She earned a degree in history from the University of New England and went on to earn a master's degree in history from George Washington University.
8. Olympia Snowe - Former U.S. Senator
Olympia Snowe, a 1969 graduate of the University of New England, is a former U.S. Senator from Maine. She served in the Senate from 1995 to 2013 and was known for her moderate stance on issues.
Early Life and Education
Born on February 21, 1947, in Augusta, Maine, Snowe grew up in a family of politicians. She earned a degree in government from the University of New England and went on to earn a law degree from the University of Maine.
9. Henry Waxman - Former U.S. Representative
Henry Waxman, a 1961 graduate of the University of New England, is a former U.S. Representative from California's 33rd congressional district. He served in Congress from 1975 to 2015 and was known for his progressive stance on issues.
Early Life and Education
Born on September 12, 1939, in Los Angeles, California, Waxman grew up in a family of politicians. He earned a degree in government from the University of New England and went on to earn a law degree from the University of California, Berkeley.
10. William Cohen - Former U.S. Secretary of Defense
William Cohen, a 1962 graduate of the University of New England, is a former U.S. Secretary of Defense. He served as secretary of defense from 1997 to 2001 and was known for his moderate stance on issues.
Early Life and Education
Born on August 28, 1940, in Bangor, Maine, Cohen grew up in a family of politicians. He earned a degree in government from the University of New England and went on to earn a law degree from Boston University.
What is the University of New England known for?
+The University of New England is known for its strong programs in business, healthcare, and the arts and sciences.
Who are some notable University of New England alumni?
+Some notable University of New England alumni include Bill Conti, Victoria Reggie Kennedy, Angus King, Jonathan Lemire, and Daniel J. Boorstin.
What is the University of New England's mission?
+The University of New England's mission is to provide a transformative education that prepares students for careers and a lifetime of learning and civic engagement.
We hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of the University of New England and its notable alumni. From business and politics to arts and sciences, UNE graduates have made significant contributions to their respective fields. If you're considering attending the University of New England, we encourage you to learn more about its programs and community.