The Most Famous Cornell Alumni, Ranked

Choose the alumni you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 19, 2024 07:26
Cornell University, steeped in a rich history of academic achievements and notable contributions to society, has produced a wide array of distinguished alumni. These individuals have excelled in fields ranging from technology and science to literature and politics, significantly impacting the world. Charting who stands out in such a luminous lineup helps acknowledge and celebrate these successes, while providing current students and alumni with figures to admire and emulate. This interactive system allows you to cast your vote for who you believe is the most influential Cornell alumnus. By participating, you contribute to a dynamic tally that reflects the collective admiration and respect held by the global community. Your involvement not only influences the current rankings but also serves as an active engagement with Cornell's legacy of excellence.

Who Are the Most Famous Cornell Alumni?

  1. 1
    79
    points
    Ruth Bader Ginsburg

    Ruth Bader Ginsburg

    Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, known for her advocacy for gender equality and civil rights.
    • Degree: Bachelor of Arts
    • Year of Graduation: 1954
  2. 2
    27
    points
    Bill Nye

    Bill Nye

    Science educator, television presenter, and mechanical engineer best known as the host of 'Bill Nye the Science Guy'.
    • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
    • Year of Graduation: 1977
  3. 3
    17
    points
    Christopher Reeve

    Christopher Reeve

    Actor, director, and activist best known for his role as Superman.
    • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in English and Music Theory
    • Year of Graduation: 1974
  4. 4
    16
    points
    Toni Morrison

    Toni Morrison

    Nobel Prize-winning author known for her contributions to literature, including novels such as 'Beloved'.
    • Degree: M.A. in English
    • Year of Graduation: 1955
  5. 5
    0
    points
    Mae Jemison

    Mae Jemison

    Engineer, physician, and NASA astronaut, she became the first African American woman to travel in space.
    • Degree: B.S. in Chemical Engineering; B.A. in African and African-American Studies
    • Year of Graduation: 1977
  6. 6
    0
    points
    E.B. White

    E.B. White

    Author of beloved children's books such as 'Charlotte's Web' and 'Stuart Little', and co-author of 'The Elements of Style'.
    • Degree: Bachelor of Arts
    • Year of Graduation: 1921
  7. 7
    0
    points
    Sandra Steingraber

    Sandra Steingraber

    Biologist, author, and cancer survivor, known for her work in environmental health and ecological medicine.
    • Degree: Ph.D. in Biology
    • Year of Graduation: 1989
  8. 8
    0
    points

    Tsai Ing-wen

    President of Taiwan, known for her leadership and advocacy for democracy and human rights.
    • Degree: Master of Laws
    • Year of Graduation: 1980
  9. 9
    0
    points
    Myron Scholes

    Myron Scholes

    Nobel Laureate in Economic Sciences, known for the Black-Scholes model.
    • Degree: Bachelor of Arts
    • Year of Graduation: 1962
  10. 10
    0
    points
    Kurt Vonnegut

    Kurt Vonnegut

    Influential American writer known for his satirical novels, including 'Slaughterhouse-Five'.
    • Degree: Attended but did not graduate
    • Years Attended: 1940s

Missing your favorite alumni?

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous Cornell alumni. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or alumnus is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2575 views
  • 139 votes
  • 10 ranked items

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Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each alumnus once every 24 hours. The rank of each alumnus is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More about the Most Famous Cornell Alumni

Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Rank #1 for the most famous Cornell alumni: Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Source)
Cornell University, founded in 1865, has a long history of producing notable alumni. These individuals have made significant impacts in various fields, including politics, science, arts, and business. The university’s diverse programs and strong emphasis on research and innovation have nurtured many talents.

In politics, Cornell alumni have held high offices and influenced policy on both national and international levels. Their contributions range from legislative achievements to diplomatic efforts. The university’s rigorous academic environment fosters critical thinking and leadership skills, preparing students for public service roles.

Science and technology have also seen many Cornell graduates excel. Alumni have been involved in groundbreaking research and have received prestigious awards. Their work spans various disciplines, including physics, biology, and engineering. Cornell’s state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative research culture provide a strong foundation for scientific discovery.

The arts and humanities are other areas where Cornell alumni shine. Many have become influential writers, filmmakers, and artists. The university’s liberal arts education encourages creativity and intellectual exploration, which helps students develop their unique voices. These alumni often credit their time at Cornell for shaping their artistic visions and careers.

In the business world, Cornell graduates have founded successful companies and led major corporations. Their entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking are often attributed to the university’s comprehensive business programs. Cornell’s emphasis on practical experience, through internships and real-world projects, equips students with the skills needed to thrive in competitive markets.

Cornell’s impact extends beyond individual achievements. Alumni networks provide support and opportunities for current students and recent graduates. These connections help foster a sense of community and shared purpose among Cornellians. The university’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment also plays a crucial role in the success of its graduates.

The university’s motto, “Any person, any study,” reflects its dedication to offering a broad range of academic opportunities. This inclusive approach attracts students with varied interests and backgrounds, contributing to a rich and dynamic campus culture. The result is a vibrant community where students can pursue their passions and make lasting contributions to their fields.

Cornell’s location in Ithaca, New York, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and academic rigor. The picturesque campus provides an inspiring backdrop for learning and personal growth. The university’s resources, including libraries, laboratories, and cultural centers, support a well-rounded education.

Cornell alumni often express gratitude for their education and the experiences they had at the university. Many remain involved with the institution, contributing to its ongoing success through donations, mentorship, and participation in alumni events. This strong sense of loyalty and pride helps maintain Cornell’s reputation as a leading institution of higher learning.

The legacy of Cornell University’s alumni is a testament to the quality of education and opportunities provided by the institution. Their achievements across various fields highlight the university’s role in shaping leaders and innovators. As Cornell continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly produce more individuals who will make significant contributions to society.

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