Hall of Distinguished Alumni
Graduates Who Inspire Us All
Each year, the Hall of Distinguished Alumni honors a group of extraordinary individuals whose lives and careers reflect the rich history, enduring values, and far-reaching aspirations at the heart of the Rutgers experience. Whether they help expand access to academic excellence, build community, support research for the common good, or show leadership and creativity in other ways, these distinguished alumni shape our world for the better.
Jeffrey Bluestone CC’74, GSNB’76
Jeffrey Bluestone is an internationally recognized immunologist whose four decades of groundbreaking research have led to the development of multiple immunotherapies, including breakthroughs in treating autoimmunity, metastatic melanoma and other cancers, and diabetes.
Mike Emanuel RC’90
Mike Emanuel RC serves as chief Washington correspondent for Fox News Channel, which he joined in 1997 as a Los Angeles-based correspondent.
Wade J. Henderson NLAW’73
Wade J. Henderson is a civil rights veteran and serves as a strategic adviser to major corporations, foundations, and nonprofits on matters relating to civil and human rights, diversity, and inclusion.
Senator Raymond J. Lesniak RC’71
Senator Raymond J., an influential member of the New Jersey Legislature from 1978 through 2018, is founder and president of the Lesniak Institute for American Leadership at Kean University.
Patricia Devitt Risse PHARM’85, GSNB’93
Patricia Devitt Risse has long demonstrated dynamic leadership, founding a company that supported the development of multiple innovative cancer treatments approved by the FDA and used by cancer patients today.
A History of Recognizing Achievement
Since 1987, the Rutgers Hall of Distinguished Alumni has honored the best and brightest of Rutgers graduates. For video highlights of our previous celebration and induction ceremony, please see below.