Notable and famous alumni

A legacy of recognized success, a record of transformative achievement

ASU has inspired a half-million master learners, alumni who thrive in nearly every country in the world. ASU graduates have generated headlines and helped solve society’s great challenges, in disciplines from the sciences to the arts, from sustainability to entrepreneurship and every category in between.

The alumni list is populated by international government leaders; U.S. governors, congressmen and senators; founders of companies; military-service pioneers; researchers in medicine, technology and sustainability; groundbreaking entrepreneurs, pioneering educators; entertainers and more.

Jeri Williams

’98 BA in fine arts

Williams is the former first female police chief for the Phoenix Police Department. She was appointed to the Medal of Valor Review Board by President Obama and is currently the principal at Impresa Strategy.

Ryan Wood

’96 BA in history

Wood was selected by the NFL Dallas Cowboys as a fullback in the 1996 player draft. He is a businessman and cowboy, co-founding Under Armour Performance Apparel and founding Sweetwood Cattle Co.

Margaret H. Woodward

’82 BS in aerospace engineering

Woodward is a decorated Air Force major general, having earned 14 military awards and decorations. She was the first woman to oversee a U.S. combat air campaign.

Peterson Zah

’63 BAE in industrial education

Zah was the first Navajo Nation president and the last Navajo Tribal Council chairman. He established the Navajo Nation Permanent Trust Fund. He has honorary degrees from ASU, Colorado College and the College of Santa Fe.