The University of Oklahoma, located in Norman, Oklahoma, is a prestigious institution that has produced a wide range of successful and influential individuals. From business leaders to athletes, artists, and politicians, the university's alumni have made a significant impact in various fields. Here are seven famous University of Oklahoma alumni:
1. Blake Shelton
Country music star Blake Shelton is one of the most famous University of Oklahoma alumni. Born in Ada, Oklahoma, Shelton attended the university but did not graduate. However, he has remained closely tied to his home state and the university. Shelton has released numerous chart-topping albums and singles, including "God Gave Me You" and "Boys 'Round Here."
Early Life and Career
Shelton was born on June 18, 1976, in Ada, Oklahoma. He began singing at a young age and was inspired by country music legends like George Strait and Hank Williams Jr. After high school, Shelton moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue a music career.
2. Sam Bradford
Sam Bradford, a former NFL quarterback, is another notable University of Oklahoma alumnus. Born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Bradford attended the university from 2006 to 2009. During his time at Oklahoma, Bradford won the Heisman Trophy in 2008 and led the Sooners to two Big 12 championships.
College Career
Bradford had a stellar college career, throwing for over 8,000 yards and 88 touchdowns. He was drafted by the St. Louis Rams with the first overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.
3. Wilma Mankiller
Wilma Mankiller, a renowned Cherokee Nation politician and community developer, was a University of Oklahoma alumna. Born in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Mankiller attended the university in the 1960s. She later became the first female principal chief of the Cherokee Nation, serving from 1985 to 1995.
Community Development
Mankiller was a pioneer in community development, working to improve the lives of Cherokee people through education, healthcare, and economic development. She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1998.
4. J.C. Watts
J.C. Watts, a former NFL player and U.S. Representative, is a University of Oklahoma alumnus. Born in Eufaula, Oklahoma, Watts attended the university from 1977 to 1981. He played football for the Sooners and later served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1995 to 2003.
Football Career
Watts had a successful football career, playing for the Oklahoma Sooners and later in the Canadian Football League. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1993.
5. Cherokee National Principal Chief Chad Smith
Chad Smith, a University of Oklahoma alumnus, is the former principal chief of the Cherokee Nation. Born in Vinita, Oklahoma, Smith attended the university from 1975 to 1979. He served as principal chief from 1999 to 2011.
Leadership
Smith was a strong leader, working to improve the lives of Cherokee people through economic development, education, and healthcare. He was a key figure in the development of the Cherokee Nation's gaming industry.
6. David L. Boren
David L. Boren, a former U.S. Senator and University of Oklahoma president, is a University of Oklahoma alumnus. Born in Washington, D.C., Boren attended the university from 1957 to 1961. He later served as U.S. Senator from 1979 to 1994 and as university president from 1994 to 2018.
Public Service
Boren had a long career in public service, working in the U.S. Senate and as a university president. He was a strong advocate for education and economic development.
7. Elizabeth Warren
Elizabeth Warren, a U.S. Senator and former Harvard Law School professor, is a University of Oklahoma alumna. Born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Warren attended the university from 1966 to 1968. She later served as a Harvard Law School professor and was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2012.
Academic Career
Warren had a distinguished academic career, teaching at several universities, including Harvard Law School. She was a leading expert on bankruptcy law and consumer protection.
What is the University of Oklahoma's mascot?
+The University of Oklahoma's mascot is the Sooner Schooner, a horse-drawn covered wagon.
Who is the most famous University of Oklahoma alumnus?
+Blake Shelton, a country music star, is one of the most famous University of Oklahoma alumni.
What is the University of Oklahoma's acceptance rate?
+The University of Oklahoma's acceptance rate is around 70%.