Ripon College has been the alma mater to several notable figures who have achieved celebrity status in various fields, particularly in entertainment and sports. Among its most recognized alumni are legendary actors, a Grammy-winning musician, a prominent sports coach, and an acclaimed audio engineer.
Prominent Alumni Who Achieved Celebrity Status
The following individuals attended Ripon College and gained significant public recognition:
| Celebrity Name | Class Year | Notable Field |
|---|---|---|
| Harrison Ford | '64 | Actor |
| Spencer Tracy | '24 | Actor |
| Al Jarreau | '62 | Musician |
| Dick Bennett | '65 | College Basketball Coach |
| Justin Niebank | '78 | Audio Engineer / Producer |
Let's delve deeper into these remarkable individuals:
- Harrison Ford (Class of 1964): One of Hollywood's most iconic actors, Ford is widely celebrated for his roles as Han Solo in the Star Wars saga and Indiana Jones in the Indiana Jones film series. His career spans decades, earning him global recognition.
- Spencer Tracy (Class of 1924): A revered actor from the Golden Age of Hollywood, Tracy won two Academy Awards for Best Actor consecutively. His filmography includes classics like Captains Courageous, Boys Town, and Guess Who's Coming to Dinner.
- Al Jarreau (Class of 1962): A seven-time Grammy Award-winning musician, Jarreau was renowned for his distinctive vocal style, blending jazz, R&B, and pop. He was the only vocalist in history to win Grammy Awards in three separate categories: jazz, pop, and R&B.
- Dick Bennett (Class of 1965): A highly respected college basketball coach, Bennett is celebrated for his successful stints at the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, and the University of Wisconsin. He is particularly noted for his defensive strategies and leading teams to NCAA tournament appearances.
- Justin Niebank (Class of 1978): An acclaimed audio engineer and producer, Niebank has won multiple Grammy Awards for his work on numerous hit records across various genres. He is a prominent figure behind the scenes in the music industry, contributing to the sound of many celebrated artists.
These individuals highlight the diverse talents and impactful careers fostered by a Ripon College education.
