If you walk onto the campus of Morgan State University in Baltimore, you’re basically stepping onto a historic battlefield where some of the biggest names in American history got their start. People always talk about HBCUs like they’re just small schools with a lot of spirit, but honestly? Morgan is a heavy hitter. The list of Morgan State University notable alumni isn’t just a "who’s who" of local heroes; it’s a roster of people who actually changed how the world works.
Some folks think that because it’s a "National Treasure"—and yes, it literally has that official designation—it’s mostly about the past. But you've got people like Mo'Nique and April Ryan proving every day that the "Morgan Made" brand is as loud as ever.
The Giants of the Gridiron and the Court
Let’s be real for a second. If you’re a sports fan and you don’t know about Morgan’s contribution to the NFL, you’re missing half the story. The school produced a legendary era of athletes under coach Earl Banks. We aren't just talking about players who had a few good seasons; we are talking about Pro Football Hall of Famers.
- Willie Lanier: They called him "Honey Bear." He was a linebacker for the Kansas City Chiefs and basically redefined how that position was played. He wasn't just tough; he was surgical.
- Leroy Kelly: A Cleveland Browns legend. Following in the footsteps of Jim Brown is an impossible task, but Kelly did it and made it look easy.
- Roosevelt Brown: Imagine being one of the best offensive tackles to ever touch a football. That was Rosey.
- Marvin Webster: Transitioning to the court, "The Human Eraser" was a force of nature in the NBA and ABA. He’s arguably the greatest basketball player to ever wear a Bears jersey.
It’s kinda wild when you think about it. For a period in the 60s and 70s, the path to professional stardom went right through Cold Spring Lane. Even today, you see names like Joshua Miles keeping that tradition alive in the NFL.
Beyond the Screen: Entertainment and Media Icons
You can't talk about Morgan State University notable alumni without mentioning the Academy Awards. Seriously. Mo'Nique (who attended Morgan) took home the Oscar for Precious, and her raw, unfiltered talent is something the university takes a lot of pride in.
Then there’s the music. Deniece Williams has a voice that can hit notes most of us can’t even dream of. "Free" and "Let's Hear It for the Boy" are basically part of the American DNA at this point. And let's not forget the jazz influence. Maysa Leak—known simply as Maysa—graduated in 1991 and became the soul of the group Incognito.
The Wire Connection
Since Morgan is in Baltimore, it’s only right that the school has deep ties to The Wire. Anwan Glover, who played Slim Charles, is a Morgan man. So was the late Robert F. Chew, who played the unforgettable Prop Joe. Their performances gave that show the authenticity it needed to become a cult classic.
On the journalism side, April Ryan is a powerhouse. As a White House correspondent, she’s been the one asking the tough questions that most people are too scared to voice. She’s joined in the media ranks by Kevin Frazier, the host of Entertainment Tonight, and William C. Rhoden, the legendary New York Times columnist. These aren't just people "in the industry"—they are the ones leading it.
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The Power Players in Politics and Business
This is where things get serious. Morgan has always been a hub for civil rights and political leadership. Most people don't realize that Morgan students led some of the first successful lunch-counter sit-ins in the country. That spirit of activism translated into some massive political careers.
- Kweisi Mfume: He’s a former President of the NAACP and a longtime U.S. Congressman. Honestly, he’s a titan in Maryland politics.
- Parren Mitchell: He was the first African American from Maryland elected to Congress. He didn't just sit in the office; he fought for minority business legislation that still impacts entrepreneurs today.
- W. Wilson Goode: The first Black mayor of Philadelphia.
- Earl G. Graves Sr.: This is a name every business student should know. He founded Black Enterprise magazine. He basically gave the blueprint for Black wealth and entrepreneurship in America. The business school at Morgan is named after him for a reason.
The Scientists and Pioneers You Never Heard Of
We often focus on the stars, but some of the most impressive Morgan State University notable alumni are the ones working in labs or behind the scenes.
Take Valerie Thomas. She’s a scientist and inventor who worked for NASA. She invented the Illusion Transmitter, which was a precursor to the 3D technology we use today. Or William H. Pinkney, a Rear Admiral who became the first Black person to command a U.S. combat ship.
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These are the people who broke "glass ceilings" before that was even a common phrase. They weren't looking for fame; they were just busy being the first at everything they did.
Why the "Morgan Made" Identity Still Matters in 2026
The university just hit a massive milestone in late 2025, celebrating one of its largest graduating classes ever—600 students in the fall alone. What’s interesting is that the school is closing in on R1 status, which is the highest level of research activity a university can have.
Newer names are popping up, too. Michael R. Faulkner (Class of 2016) is a software engineer at LinkedIn making waves in tech. Sijara Eubanks is representing in the UFC. The legacy isn't stagnant; it's evolving.
A lot of people think HBCUs are just about "culture," but when you look at the sheer output of CEOs, Hall of Famers, and NASA scientists, you realize Morgan is a machine for success. It’s a place that takes "urban research" seriously and turns it into real-world impact.
Actionable Insights for Future Alumni
If you're a current student or thinking about attending, here's how to actually leverage that "notable" network:
- Hit the Alumni House: Don't just walk past it. The Morgan State University Alumni Association (MSUAA) is incredibly active. People like Phyllis Davis have spent years building a network that actually helps younger grads get jobs.
- Look Beyond the Big Names: While Mo'Nique and Mfume are great, the real power is in the mid-career professionals in D.C. and Baltimore who are looking to hire "Morgan Made" talent.
- Study the Giants: Read Earl Graves' book How to Succeed in Business Without Being White. It’s a masterclass in the mindset that Morgan instills in its students.
- Use the Career Centers: With the recent $28.5 million NASA grant and the NIH research funding, the opportunities for STEM students are peaking right now. Don't wait until senior year to check those out.
Morgan State isn't just a school; it's a launchpad. Whether you want to be the next April Ryan or the next Willie Lanier, the blueprint is already there, written by the people who walked those same halls.