Notable Alumni

SUNY Alumni number nearly 3 million and hold positions of leadership and influence around the globe. The majority of SUNY alumni reside and pursue careers in New York State contributing to the economic and social vitality of its citizens. In addition, SUNY grads can also be found in every state in the nation and in many foreign nations worldwide.

Al Roker, SUNY Oswego ‘76

Albert Lincoln "Al" Roker, Jr. is best known for helping America rise every weekday morning as the lead weather and feature anchor for the Today Show on NBC and Wake Up With Al on The Weather Channel, as well as a critically-acclaimed author and actor. Roker began his television career following his studies at SUNY Oswego, where he double-majored in graphic design and broadcasting/journalism. Roker has ever since kept close ties to the upstate New York SUNY campus, including contributing to the Al Roker Television Studio—now home to WTOP-10, the College’s award-winning student television organization.

Related:

• Al Roker praises SUNY during TODAY Show discussion
• Stay Classy! Newscasters Who Got Their Start At SUNY
• 15 Stars Who Attended SUNY
• SUNY’s Media and Communication Programs Continue to Excel

William “Billy” Baldwin, Binghamton University ’85

William “Billy” Baldwin is best known for his acting roles in more than 25 films, including the award-winning The Squid and The Whale and action drama Backdraft. His appearances on television’s Parenthood and Gossip Girl follow earlier success on ABC series Dirty Sexy Money. Baldwin began his acting career while at Binghamton University, where he earned a degree in political science and has since kept close ties to—ultimately earning the University Medal in 2010.

Related:

• SUNY Alumni and the Theatre Arts
• Arts and Culture as an Educational Necessity, Not a Disposable Plaything

Susie Essman, SUNY Purchase College ‘77

Susie Essman is best known for making fellow New Yorkers laugh through her role as Susien Green on Curb Your Enthusiasm, and for her work as an author, television producer, writer, and stand-up comedian. Essman began her performance career following her time at SUNY Purchase College, where she studied Urban Studies. Essman has since kept close ties to the SUNY college, and in 2011 she was named recipient of the Purchase College President's Award for Distinguished Alumni.

Related:

• 8 SUNY Alumni You Can See On The Screen
• How Persistence Led a SUNY Oswego Student to an Internship With MTV

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Alumni Resources

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• SUNY Fast Facts
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