Lincoln University, renowned for its commitment to excellence in education and research, has produced a plethora of successful individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields. From politics to the arts, these distinguished alumni have left a lasting impact on society and exemplify the university’s commitment to fostering leaders and visionaries.
In this article, we will spotlight ten outstanding Lincoln University alumni who have reached great heights in their respective careers and continue to inspire generations to come.
- Thurgood Marshall
Thurgood Marshall, a prominent civil rights lawyer, was the first African American to serve on the United States Supreme Court. He received his law degree from Lincoln University in 1933 and became a central figure in the fight against racial segregation. Marshall’s dedication to justice and equality made him an icon of the civil rights movement and a champion for the rights of all Americans.
- Langston Hughes
A renowned poet, novelist and playwright, Langston Hughes is one of the most influential figures in African-American literature. He attended Lincoln University in the early 1920s, where his literary talents flourished. Hughes’ works often celebrated the African-American experience and served as a powerful voice for the Harlem Renaissance, leaving an indelible mark on American culture.
- Kwame Nkrumah
Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first president and a key figure in the African independence movement, studied at the University of Lincoln in the 1930s. A visionary leader, he played a crucial role in the liberation of Ghana from British colonial rule, advocating for African unity and self-determination throughout his political career.
- Langston Galloway
Outstanding athlete and NBA player Langston Galloway graduated from the University of Lincoln in 2014. Known for his remarkable three-point shooting abilities, Galloway enjoyed a successful career in professional basketball, representing the Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks, among other teams.
- Gloria Richardson
Gloria Richardson, a prominent civil rights activist, played a pivotal role in the Cambridge movement of the 1960s. Her fearless leadership and commitment to nonviolent protest inspired many to fight against racial discrimination. Richardson’s time at Lincoln University laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to social justice and equality.
- Hakeem Jeffries
Hakeem Jeffries, a prominent US Congressman, earned his bachelor’s degree from Lincoln University before going to law school. Representing New York’s 8th Congressional District, Jeffries is known for his advocacy on issues such as criminal justice reform and affordable housing.
- Octavia E. Butler
Octavia E. Butler, a highly acclaimed science fiction writer, attended Lincoln University in the late 1960s. Her groundbreaking work often explored themes of race, gender, and power dynamics in futuristic settings. Butler’s contributions to literature have earned her numerous awards and accolades, and she remains a pioneer for African American authors in the science fiction genre.
- John H. Johnson
John H. Johnson, the founder of the iconic Johnson Publishing Company, studied at the University of Lincoln in the 1930s. Through the founding of Ebony and Jet magazines, Johnson provided a platform for African American stories and voices, revolutionizing media representation and promoting black culture.
- Gilbert L. Rochon
An esteemed scientist and academic leader, Gilbert L. Rochon graduated from Lincoln University in the 1970s. He held prominent positions in academia and made significant contributions to research in areas such as atmospheric science and climate change, leaving a lasting impact on the scientific community.
- Nnamdi Azikiwe
Nnamdi Azikiwe, a leading figure in Nigerian politics, graduated from Lincoln University in 1930. He went on to become Nigeria’s first president, championing the country’s independence and playing a crucial role in shaping its political landscape.
The extraordinary achievements of these ten outstanding Lincoln University alumni reflect the institution’s dedication to nurturing visionary leaders in a variety of disciplines. From fighting for civil rights and social justice to achieving groundbreaking advances in literature, politics and sport, these people continue to inspire current and future generations. Their stories testify to the transformative power of education and how Lincoln University’s impact extends far beyond the confines of its campus.
