Update 10 Notable Alumni from Muhlenberg College

Muhlenberg College, nestled in Allentown, Pennsylvania, has established itself as a renowned institution of higher education since its founding in 1848. With a strong emphasis on liberal arts education and a commitment to fostering critical thinking and leadership skills, Muhlenberg College has produced an impressive list of alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields.

From politics and the arts to business and science, the institution’s graduates have left a lasting impact on society. In this article, we’ll spotlight ten notable alumni who excelled in their respective careers and brought honor to their alma mater.

1. Lee Iacocca (Class of 1945):
   Lee Iacocca was a legendary figure in the automotive industry, best known for his pivotal role in reviving Chrysler Corporation in the 1980s. As CEO of Chrysler, he introduced innovative marketing strategies and successfully negotiated a government bailout that saved the company from bankruptcy. Iacocca’s leadership and business acumen earned him a reputation as one of the most influential automotive executives in history.
2. Jonathan Frakes (Class of 1974):
   Actor/director Jonathan Frakes gained wide notoriety for his portrayal of Commander William Riker in the beloved television series “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” After a successful acting career, Frakes ventured into directing and directed episodes for various TV shows and movies, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and talented performer.
3. Richard Ben-Veniste (class of 1964):
   A prominent figure in American law and politics, Richard Ben-Veniste is a well-respected lawyer who has worked on several high-profile cases, including his role as lead counsel to the Senate Watergate Committee during the Watergate scandal. His legal expertise and dedication to justice have earned him the general admiration of the legal community.
4. Peter S. Beagle (class of 1959):
   Peter S. Beagle is a renowned fantasy author, best known for his classic novel “The Last Unicorn.” His imaginative storytelling and lyrical prose won him a devoted following and established him as one of the most influential writers in the fantasy genre.
5. Stephen Sommers (Class of 1980):
   Stephen Sommers is a successful director and screenwriter known for his work on blockbuster films such as ‘The Mummy’, ‘Van Helsing’ and ‘GI Joe: The Rise of Cobra’. His ability to create exciting and visually stunning films made him a leading figure in Hollywood.
6. Randy Pausch (Class of 1982):
   Randy Pausch was a computer science teacher and author whose inspirational “last talk” captured the hearts of millions around the world. Her book, “The Last Lecture”, became a bestseller and testified to her unwavering optimism and resilience while battling pancreatic cancer.
7. Richard Schiff (Class of 1978):
   Richard Schiff is a talented actor who received wide acclaim for his role as Toby Ziegler in the critically acclaimed television series “The West Wing”. His exceptional acting skills have won him numerous awards and accolades throughout his career.
8. Stephanie Szostak (Class of 1995):
   Stephanie Szostak is a successful actress known for her roles in films such as ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ and ‘Iron Man 3’. Her talent and versatility have led her to portray a wide range of characters both on the big screen and on television.
9. Richard W. Fisher (Class of 1971):
   Richard W. Fisher is an influential economist and former president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. Throughout his career, Fisher has played a crucial role in shaping monetary policy and addressing economic challenges facing the United States.
10. Wolf Blitzer (class of 1970):
    Wolf Blitzer is a prominent journalist and news anchor who has been a familiar face on CNN for decades. With his vast experience and in-depth reporting, Blitzer has become one of the most respected and trusted figures in broadcast journalism.

Muhlenberg College’s rich heritage of producing outstanding graduates continues to be a source of pride for the institution and its community. The achievements of these ten notable alumni, spanning various fields and industries, demonstrate the college’s commitment to academic excellence and the development of intellectual curiosity.