Drexel University, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has educated many now-famous celebrities over the years. From actors and comedians to musicians and athletes, Drexel has produced numerous notable alumni.
Actors
Several big name actors got their start at Drexel before making it big in Hollywood. Some of the most famous actor alumni include:
- Michael Raymond-James – Known for roles in TV shows like True Blood and Terriers, as well as films like The Finest Hours.
- Gail O’Grady – Played Donna Abandando on NYPD Blue and has appeared in numerous TV shows and films.
- Marisa Petroro – Best known for playing Katie in the American Pie film series.
- Bahar Soomekh – Appeared in films like Crash, Mission: Impossible III, and Saw III.
Comedians
Drexel has produced some very successful comedic talents over the years. Notable comedians who attended the university include:
- Kathy Burke – British comedian and actress known for shows like Gimme Gimme Gimme and comedy specials like Chain Gang.
- Adam Ferrara – Stand-up comedian and actor who starred on TV shows like Rescue Me and Top Gear US.
- Rich Vos – Frequent guest on The Opie and Anthony Show and has appeared on Comedy Central specials.
- Lauren Weedman – Actress and comedian who has been on The Daily Show and HBO’s Looking.
Musicians
Drexel has also produced a number of musicians who went on to successful careers in the music industry including:
- Jazmine Sullivan – Grammy-nominated R&B and soul singer known for hits like “Bust Your Windows.”
- Kurt Vile – Indie rock singer-songwriter and guitarist.
- Ben Arnold – Keyboardist and founder of the rock band Oliver Ackermann.
- Chiddy Bang – Hip hop duo known for songs like “Opposite of Adults.”
Athletes
Some top athletes also got their start at Drexel before becoming pro sports stars. Famous athletic alumni include:
- Malik Rose – Played 13 seasons in the NBA, most with the San Antonio Spurs where he won two championships.
- Michael Anderson – Olympic fencer who won a silver medal in the team foil competition at the 1984 Summer Olympics.
- Ki-Jana Carter – Former NFL running back and #1 overall draft pick in 1995.
- Sean Green – PGA tour professional golfer with several tournament wins.
Other Notable Alumni
In addition to the celebrities mentioned in specific categories above, other famous Drexel alumni include:
- Lexie Fyfe – Professional wrestler best known for appearances in WCW and WWE.
- Gene Shue – Former professional basketball player and coach.
- Joshua Cohen – Award-winning novelist and writer.
- Majora Carter – Urban revitalization strategist and public radio host.
- S. Epatha Merkerson – Film, stage, and TV actress best known for Law & Order.
- Lee Daniels – Film and TV producer, director and writer known for projects like Precious, The Butler, and Empire.
Interesting Facts About Celebrity Alumni
In addition to listing some of the most famous former Drexel students, here are some interesting facts about celebrity alumni from the university:
- Michael Raymond-James was originally a business major before switching to focus on acting.
- Comedian Rich Vos was nearly expelled from Drexel for his pranks before later returning to earn his degree.
- Gene Shue both played basketball and received a degree in engineering at Drexel.
- While at Drexel, Chiddy Bang recorded their breakout song “Opposite of Adults” in their dorm room.
- Majora Carter received an honorary doctorate from Drexel in 2010 in humane letters.
- Lee Daniels originally wanted to be a dentist before discovering a passion for show business.
Majors and Departments of Celebrities
Drexel has a diverse range of academic departments that have produced famous alumni. Here are some of the majors and areas of study of the celebrities on this list:
Celebrity | Major/Department |
---|---|
Michael Raymond-James | Business |
Gail O’Grady | Fashion Design |
Marisa Petroro | Film & Television |
Kathy Burke | Performing Arts |
Jazmine Sullivan | Music Industry |
Malik Rose | Sports Management |
Gene Shue | Engineering |
Joshua Cohen | English & Philosophy |
Conclusion
Drexel University has an impressive roster of famous alumni who have gone on to successful careers in film, television, comedy, music, sports, and other fields. The unique majors and academic environment at Drexel helped launch the careers of numerous celebrities in diverse areas of entertainment, athletics, and culture. From Emmy winners to NBA champions, Grammy nominees to Pulitzer finalists, Drexel has produced an eclectic group of notable alumni making their mark on the world.