Nestled in the vibrant heart of Atlanta, Emory University has long been a beacon of intellectual rigor, compassionate inquiry, and innovative spirit. More than just an academic institution, it is a crucible where future leaders, innovators, and changemakers are forged. With a commitment to interdisciplinary learning, ethical leadership, and service to humanity, Emory cultivates a unique environment that empowers its graduates to not only excel in their chosen fields but to profoundly shape the world around them.
The success stories of Emory alumni span every imaginable sector – from pioneering global health initiatives and leading Fortune 500 companies to transforming the arts, advocating for justice, and pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery. These individuals, diverse in their backgrounds and ambitions, share a common thread: the foundational values and critical thinking skills honed during their time on the historic Druid Hills campus. Their achievements are not merely personal accolades but testaments to Emory’s enduring legacy of impact.
Pioneers in Global Health and Humanitarian Service
Perhaps nowhere is Emory’s influence more pronounced than in the realm of public health and global humanitarian efforts, thanks in part to its deep ties with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and its world-renowned Rollins School of Public Health.
One of the most iconic figures in this domain is Dr. William Foege (74MPH). A truly legendary figure, Dr. Foege played a pivotal role in the successful eradication of smallpox, one of humanity’s deadliest diseases. His strategic brilliance and unwavering commitment, particularly his "ring vaccination" strategy, transformed global public health. After his groundbreaking work with the CDC, he went on to lead the Carter Center and became a senior advisor for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, continually championing global health equity. Foege’s journey embodies Emory’s dedication to tackling the world’s most pressing health challenges with innovative solutions and a profound sense of purpose.
Another luminary is Dr. Helene Gayle (81MD), a globally recognized expert in public health, humanitarian, and economic development issues. After a distinguished career at the CDC, where she focused on HIV/AIDS prevention and control, Dr. Gayle served as President and CEO of CARE, one of the world’s largest humanitarian organizations, dramatically expanding its reach and impact. Later, as President and CEO of the Chicago Community Trust, she steered efforts to address systemic inequities. Currently, she leads Spelman College, continuing her legacy of empowering future generations. Dr. Gayle’s career trajectory showcases how an Emory medical education can be a springboard for multifaceted global leadership and advocacy.
Leaders in Business and Technological Innovation
Emory graduates are also at the forefront of shaping the global economy and technological landscape, demonstrating both sharp business acumen and an adaptive spirit.
Jim Lanzone (90BBA, 94JD) stands as a prime example of an alumnus who has navigated and led transformations in the digital realm. A highly respected executive in the technology and media industries, Lanzone has held top leadership positions at some of the world’s most influential companies. He served as CEO of Yahoo, leading the venerable internet giant through a critical phase of reinvention. Prior to that, he was the Chief Digital Officer of CBS Corporation and CEO of CBS Interactive, overseeing a vast portfolio of digital properties. His ability to blend legal expertise with a keen understanding of digital trends, cultivated through his business and law degrees from Emory, has allowed him to drive innovation and growth in rapidly evolving sectors.
Another impactful business leader is Laura Lane (87C), who has risen to become Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at UPS, one of the world’s largest package delivery and logistics companies. Her career path, which includes serving as a diplomat in the U.S. Foreign Service before joining the corporate world, speaks to Emory’s encouragement of diverse career paths and a global perspective. At UPS, Lane plays a crucial role in navigating complex international trade policies, sustainability initiatives, and corporate social responsibility efforts, demonstrating how a liberal arts education can lay the groundwork for leadership in a global, multifaceted business environment.
Shapers of Culture and the Arts
Emory’s robust humanities programs have consistently produced artists, writers, and cultural leaders who enrich society and challenge perceptions.
Kenny Leon (78C) is a celebrated figure in American theater. A Tony Award-winning director, Leon has brought powerful and critically acclaimed productions to Broadway, including "A Raisin in the Sun" (2004 revival) and "Fences" (2010 revival), both starring Denzel Washington. His work often explores themes of race, identity, and social justice, resonating deeply with audiences. Leon’s artistic vision extends beyond Broadway, with significant contributions to regional theater and television. His journey from an Emory theater student to a director of national renown underscores the university’s commitment to fostering creative talent and providing a platform for impactful storytelling.
While not an alum, the late Natasha Trethewey, a former U.S. Poet Laureate and Pulitzer Prize winner, served as a professor at Emory for many years, further cementing the university’s strong connection to literary excellence and intellectual discourse. This environment continuously inspires and nurtures students who go on to achieve significant artistic feats.
Champions of Justice and Public Service
Emory’s School of Law has a long-standing reputation for producing legal minds committed to upholding justice, shaping public policy, and serving their communities.
Elmer Steward Jr. (71C, 74L) exemplifies the impact of Emory-trained legal professionals in the judiciary. After a distinguished career in private practice, he was appointed to the Superior Court of Fulton County, Georgia, where he served for many years with integrity and a deep understanding of the law. His career is a testament to the ethical foundation and rigorous legal training provided by Emory, which prepares graduates not just for courtroom battles but for roles of immense public trust and responsibility.
Countless other Emory Law alumni serve as dedicated public defenders, prosecutors, civil rights advocates, and policymakers, working tirelessly to ensure a more just and equitable society. Their work often occurs away from the spotlight, but their collective impact on communities and legal frameworks is immeasurable.
Advancing Science and Medicine
Beyond public health, Emory’s strength in biomedical research and clinical medicine has yielded graduates who are pushing the boundaries of understanding and treatment.
Dr. Jeffrey Rosen (82C, 86M) is a leading neurosurgeon and researcher whose work has significantly advanced the understanding and treatment of complex neurological conditions. As a professor and clinician at top medical institutions, Dr. Rosen has been involved in groundbreaking research that translates into improved patient outcomes. His trajectory highlights Emory’s role in cultivating scientific inquiry and producing highly skilled medical professionals who contribute to the cutting edge of healthcare innovation. From basic science research to advanced clinical practice, Emory graduates are making tangible differences in the lives of patients worldwide.
The Emory Advantage: What Connects Them All?
Looking at these diverse success stories, several common threads emerge, pointing to the distinctive "Emory Advantage" that propels its alumni to such heights:
- Interdisciplinary Thinking: Emory’s curriculum encourages students to draw connections across disciplines, fostering a holistic understanding of complex problems. This approach prepares graduates to innovate at the intersections of fields, whether it’s public health and policy, or business and technology.
- Ethical Leadership and Service: A strong emphasis on ethics, social responsibility, and community engagement is woven into the fabric of an Emory education. Graduates are not just trained to be successful, but to be responsible leaders who use their talents for the greater good.
- Critical Inquiry and Problem-Solving: Emory cultivates a rigorous academic environment that challenges students to think critically, analyze complex information, and develop creative solutions – skills that are invaluable in any profession.
- Global Perspective: With a diverse student body and faculty, international programs, and strong ties to global institutions like the CDC, Emory instills a global mindset, preparing graduates to navigate an interconnected world.
- A Nurturing Community: The close-knit, collaborative environment at Emory, coupled with dedicated faculty mentorship, provides a supportive ecosystem where students can explore their passions, take intellectual risks, and build lasting networks.
- The Atlanta Connection: Being situated in a major metropolitan hub like Atlanta offers unparalleled opportunities for internships, research, community engagement, and networking, providing real-world experience that complements classroom learning.
A Legacy of Impact, A Future of Promise
The stories of Emory University alumni are a vibrant tapestry of dedication, innovation, and profound impact. They are a testament to an institution that not only imparts knowledge but also ignites curiosity, fosters resilience, and instills a deep-seated commitment to making a difference. From the eradication of diseases to the creation of groundbreaking technologies, from the stages of Broadway to the halls of justice, Emory graduates consistently demonstrate that an education rooted in scholarship, service, and critical thought is a powerful catalyst for change.
As new generations of students walk the historic paths of Emory’s campus, they follow in the footsteps of giants. They are part of a continuing legacy, poised to write their own stories of success, further extending Emory’s reach and influence, and continuing its mission to shape a better, more just, and healthier world. The impact of Emory alumni is not merely a reflection of past achievements; it is a dynamic, ongoing force that promises to illuminate the future.
