Johns Hopkins University proudly boasts a distinguished roster of alumni who have left indelible marks across diverse fields. From visionary CEOs and pioneering scientists to celebrated conservationists and acclaimed authors, Johns Hopkins graduates include luminaries who have garnered the highest accolades, including Oscars, Grammys, Emmys, and Pulitzer Prizes, and even a former U.S. President. These “Famous Johns,” in a playful nod to their association with this esteemed institution, represent a legacy of excellence and impact.
Our illustrious graduates include:
- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the celebrated novelist whose powerful storytelling resonates globally.
- Virginia Apgar, the physician who revolutionized newborn care with the Apgar score, a critical tool in assessing infant health.
- John Astin, the beloved actor known for his iconic role as Gomez Addams in The Addams Family.
- Russell Baker, the Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist from The New York Times and former host of PBS’s Masterpiece Theatre, renowned for his insightful commentary.
- Manuel Barrueco, the Grammy Award-winning guitarist, acclaimed for his masterful classical guitar performances.
- John Barth, a novelist celebrated for his postmodern and metafictional works that have pushed literary boundaries.
- Jeffrey Blitz, the writer and director behind acclaimed films like Spellbound, Rocket Science, and Lucky, known for his quirky and insightful narratives.
- Wolf Blitzer, the veteran journalist and CNN anchor, a trusted voice in news broadcasting.
- Michael R. Bloomberg, the former New York City mayor and founder of Bloomberg L.P., Bloomberg News, and Bloomberg Radio, a titan of both business and public service.
- Carter Brey, the principal cellist of the New York Philharmonic, captivating audiences with his musical artistry.
- Rachel Carson, the groundbreaking biologist, ecologist, and author of Silent Spring, whose work ignited the environmental movement.
- Richard Ben Cramer, the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, celebrated for his in-depth and narrative-driven reporting.
- Wes Craven, the influential film director who redefined horror cinema with franchises like A Nightmare on Elm Street and Scream.
- Caleb Deschanel, the acclaimed cinematographer, known for his visually stunning work in films such as The Passion of the Christ and The Natural.
- John Dewey, the preeminent American philosopher, social critic, and educator, whose progressive ideas shaped modern education.
- Louise Erdrich, a prolific writer known for her novels exploring Native American themes and experiences.
- Hallie Jackson, the Chief White House correspondent for NBC News, providing insightful coverage of national politics.
- John C. Malone, the chairman and majority owner of Liberty Media, Liberty Global, and Qurate Retail Group, a leading figure in the media and telecommunications industry.
- Victor A. McKusick, the pioneering medical geneticist and author of Mendelian Inheritance in Man, considered the cornerstone of human genetics.
- James McPherson, the Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author, renowned for his expertise on the American Civil War.
- Kweisi Mfume, the former president of the NAACP and current U.S. Representative for Maryland’s 7th congressional district, a prominent voice in civil rights and public service.
- Wes Moore, the current Governor of Maryland, author, and social entrepreneur, dedicated to public service and community upliftment.
- Walter Murch, the Oscar-winning film editor and sound mixer, celebrated for his innovative contributions to cinema.
- Caryle Murphy, the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and longtime international reporter for The Washington Post, known for her courageous and insightful reporting from conflict zones.
- Tommy Newsom, the Emmy winner and assistant conductor of the Tonight Show band, adding musical flair to late-night television.
- PJ O’Rourke, the journalist and author, known for his satirical and libertarian perspectives on politics and culture.
- Sam Palmisano, the former CEO of IBM, who led the company through significant transformations in the tech industry.
- Awadagin Pratt, the acclaimed pianist and winner of the Naumburg International Piano Competition, celebrated for his dynamic performances.
- Joanne Silberner, the award-winning freelance writer and 18-year veteran of NPR’s science desk, known for her clear and engaging science journalism.
- Lauren Underwood, the Congresswoman representing Illinois’s 14th District, advocating for healthcare and community well-being.
- John A. Wheeler, the influential physicist who coined the term “black hole” and made significant contributions to quantum theory and general relativity.
- Woodrow Wilson, the 28th U.S. President, a transformative figure in American history and global politics.
- Abel Wolman, the water treatment expert, whose innovations in water chlorination dramatically improved public health.
These “famous Johns” and other distinguished alumni exemplify the spirit of innovation, leadership, and service fostered at Johns Hopkins University. Their diverse achievements across disciplines underscore the university’s commitment to nurturing talent and empowering individuals to make a profound impact on the world. Johns Hopkins continues to inspire future generations to follow in these remarkable footsteps, building upon a legacy enriched by these famous figures.
Recent alumni spotlights include figures like Leslie King Hammond, an influential art historian celebrated for championing Black and women artists.
Gail McGovern looks into the distance, while wearing a Red Cross branded hat and button-down shirt
Gail McGovern, the retiring CEO of the American Red Cross, is another notable alumna recognized for her impactful leadership in humanitarian service.
A collage depicts a historical photo of geologist Florence Bascom alongside broken rocks
Florence Bascom, a trailblazing geologist and the first woman to earn a PhD from Johns Hopkins, represents the university’s long history of fostering pioneering women in academia.
