Harvey Milk was a pioneering LGBTQ+ rights activist and the first openly gay elected official in California. After gradu... View More

Harvey Milk was a pioneering LGBTQ+ rights activist and the first openly gay elected official in California. After graduating from UAlbany in 1951, he became a key figure in the fight for equal rights, serving as a San Francisco city supervisor. Milk championed policies supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, renters, and marginalized communities. His legacy continues to inspire activists worldwide, and he was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His life was later depicted in the Academy Award-winning film Milk (2008). View Less

Edward Burns, a graduate of UAlbany, is a well-known actor, writer, and filmmaker. He gained prominence with his indepen... View More

Edward Burns, a graduate of UAlbany, is a well-known actor, writer, and filmmaker. He gained prominence with his independent film The Brothers McMullen (1995), which won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. Burns has acted in major films such as Saving Private Ryan and 15 Minutes while continuing to direct and produce indie films. His storytelling focuses on family, relationships, and working-class struggles. He remains an influential figure in independent cinema. View Less

Dirk Kempthorne, a UAlbany graduate, served as the U.S. Secretary of the Interior from 2006 to 2009 under President Geor... View More

Dirk Kempthorne, a UAlbany graduate, served as the U.S. Secretary of the Interior from 2006 to 2009 under President George W. Bush. He was also the Governor of Idaho from 1999 to 2006 and previously a U.S. Senator. Throughout his career, he focused on land conservation, infrastructure, and environmental policies. As Secretary of the Interior, he played a key role in managing national parks and resources. His leadership significantly impacted public land management in the United States. View Less

Steve Guttenberg, known for his roles in Police Academy, Cocoon, and Three Men and a Baby, attended UAlbany before launc... View More

Steve Guttenberg, known for his roles in Police Academy, Cocoon, and Three Men and a Baby, attended UAlbany before launching his Hollywood career. He was one of the most popular comedic actors of the 1980s, starring in numerous box-office hits. Guttenberg has also been involved in theater and philanthropy, supporting children’s literacy programs and community service projects. His work in film and television continues to be celebrated by audiences worldwide. He remains an advocate for education and the arts. View Less

John M. McHugh, a UAlbany graduate, served as the U.S. Secretary of the Army from 2009 to 2015. Before that, he was a Co... View More

John M. McHugh, a UAlbany graduate, served as the U.S. Secretary of the Army from 2009 to 2015. Before that, he was a Congressman representing New York’s 23rd District for over 16 years. In his role, he played a crucial part in military modernization, veterans' welfare, and national security policies. His leadership contributed to advancing military technology and improving conditions for service members. McHugh remains an influential voice in defense and government affairs. View Less

Richard L. Brodsky was a longtime member of the New York State Assembly, representing the 92nd District from 1983 to 201... View More

Richard L. Brodsky was a longtime member of the New York State Assembly, representing the 92nd District from 1983 to 2010. A UAlbany graduate, he was known for his advocacy in environmental protection, corporate accountability, and public transportation reforms. He was instrumental in shaping policies related to New York’s infrastructure and environmental conservation. His legal expertise also helped in challenging corruption and ensuring transparency in government projects. His impact on New York politics remains significant. View Less

Adele Smithers, a UAlbany alumna, was a renowned advocate for addiction treatment and recovery programs. She played a ke... View More

Adele Smithers, a UAlbany alumna, was a renowned advocate for addiction treatment and recovery programs. She played a key role in funding and expanding rehabilitation centers across the United States. Through the Smithers Foundation, she supported research on alcoholism and mental health. Her efforts helped reduce the stigma around addiction and improve access to quality treatment. Smithers' philanthropic legacy continues to impact healthcare and social services. View Less

George Pataki, who earned his law degree after attending UAlbany, served as the 53rd Governor of New York from 1995 to 2... View More

George Pataki, who earned his law degree after attending UAlbany, served as the 53rd Governor of New York from 1995 to 2006. A Republican leader, he was instrumental in economic reforms, environmental policies, and post-9/11 recovery efforts in New York. His administration focused on tax cuts, job creation, and healthcare improvements. Pataki played a significant role in rebuilding Lower Manhattan after the terrorist attacks. He remains active in public policy and international relations. View Less

Megyn Kelly, a UAlbany graduate, is a prominent journalist, political commentator, and former Fox News anchor. She gaine... View More

Megyn Kelly, a UAlbany graduate, is a prominent journalist, political commentator, and former Fox News anchor. She gained national recognition for hosting The Kelly File, where she covered major political events and interviews. Kelly later moved to NBC, hosting Megyn Kelly Today before shifting to independent media. She has been a key figure in discussions about media bias, women’s rights, and political reporting. Her influence in broadcast journalism continues through her podcast and independent projects. View Less

Billy Baldwin, part of the famous Baldwin acting family, studied at UAlbany before pursuing a successful Hollywood caree... View More

Billy Baldwin, part of the famous Baldwin acting family, studied at UAlbany before pursuing a successful Hollywood career. He starred in films such as Backdraft, Sliver, and The Squid and the Whale, gaining a reputation for his versatility. Baldwin has also worked extensively in television, appearing in shows like Gossip Girl and Northern Rescue. Beyond acting, he is involved in philanthropic work, supporting cancer research and environmental causes. He continues to be an influential figure in entertainment and advocacy. View Less