10 Shocking Success Stories: Lewis & Clark College Notable Alumni Who Are Dominating 2025

As of late December 2025, Lewis & Clark College continues its tradition of producing graduates who shape national discourse, lead political movements, and dominate the entertainment industry. This small liberal arts college in Portland, Oregon, has a disproportionately large impact, with alumni ranging from a former First Lady intern turned activist-producer to a beloved Emmy-winning comedic actor and one of Netflix's biggest stars. The success stories emerging from the College of Arts and Sciences, the Law School, and the Graduate School are not just historical footnotes; they are contemporary figures whose latest projects and careers are actively influencing culture and politics right now. The depth of talent among Lewis & Clark's famous graduates is truly remarkable, spanning high-profile anti-bullying activism, cutting-edge indie music, and the highest levels of state and federal government. Whether you are a prospective student, a current Pioneer, or simply curious about the college's legacy, exploring the current achievements of these notable alumni reveals a powerful network of influential individuals making significant moves in the world today.

The A-List: Complete Biography and Profile of Lewis & Clark's Most Famous Graduates

The following Lewis & Clark College alumni have achieved global recognition, with their recent career moves and high-profile work keeping them firmly in the spotlight as of 2025.

Monica Lewinsky (BA '95) – Activist, Producer, and Podcaster

• Full Name: Monica Samille Lewinsky
• Born: July 23, 1973 (San Francisco, California)
• Lewis & Clark Degree: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology, 1995
• Known For: Central figure in the 1998 Clinton-Lewinsky scandal; prominent anti-bullying activist; producer.
• Current Status (2025): Active producer and host of her own podcast.
• Recent Work: Launched her new podcast, "Reclaiming," in February 2025, a series dedicated to conversations about finding one's voice after difficult life events. She also served as an Executive Producer on the Hulu docuseries, *The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox*, which premiered in late 2024, continuing her mission to reclaim public narratives.

Penn Badgley (Attended) – Actor and Pop Culture Icon

• Full Name: Penn Dayton Badgley
• Born: November 1, 1986 (Baltimore, Maryland)
• Lewis & Clark Affiliation: Attended for a period before pursuing his acting career.
• Known For: Starring roles as Dan Humphrey in *Gossip Girl* and Joe Goldberg in *You*.
• Current Status (2025): Leading television actor and musician.
• Recent Work: Badgley concluded his acclaimed run as the serial killer Joe Goldberg in the final season of the Netflix psychological thriller *You*. He is actively pursuing new film and television projects for 2025 and 2026, solidifying his position as one of the most recognizable faces from the Lewis & Clark alumni community in the entertainment world.

Ty Burrell (Attended) – Emmy-Winning Comedic Actor

• Full Name: Tyler Gerald Burrell
• Born: August 22, 1967 (Grants Pass, Oregon)
• Lewis & Clark Affiliation: Attended the college.
• Known For: Winning two Emmy Awards for his role as Phil Dunphy on the ABC sitcom *Modern Family*.
• Current Status (2025): Returning to network television.
• Recent Work: In 2024, Burrell announced his return to ABC to star in the new comedy pilot *Forgive and Forget*. Furthermore, he is set to star in *Tightrope!*, an upcoming series produced by Bryan Cranston, keeping him busy in a post-*Modern Family* landscape.

From Capitol Hill to the Courtroom: Lewis & Clark's Political and Legal Powerhouses

Lewis & Clark Law School, in particular, has an outstanding reputation for producing leaders in environmental law, state politics, and federal government. These alumni demonstrate the college's commitment to public service and social justice.

Kate Brown (BA '81, JD '85) – Former Governor of Oregon

Kate Brown is one of the most prominent political alumni, having served as the 38th Governor of Oregon from 2015 to 2023. She is a double alumna, holding both a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Juris Doctor (JD) from the Law School. Her tenure focused on environmental protection, healthcare, and progressive legislation, leaving a significant legacy in the Pacific Northwest. Her work continues to influence state policy and the national conversation around progressive governance.

Earl Blumenauer (BA '70, JD '76) – U.S. Representative

Another distinguished double alumnus, Earl Blumenauer has represented Oregon in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1996. He is a powerful voice in Congress, known for his distinctive bicycle pin and his advocacy for sustainable transportation, environmental issues, and drug policy reform. His decades-long career is a testament to the enduring influence of Lewis & Clark's political science and legal programs on national policy. His continued service in 2025 ensures the college's presence in Washington D.C.

Sim Gill (JD '91) – District Attorney

Sim Gill is a notable graduate of the Lewis & Clark Law School, currently serving as the District Attorney for Salt Lake County, Utah. His work in criminal justice reform and his high-profile position make him a key figure in the legal landscape of the Western United States. The Law School's focus on public interest law is clearly reflected in the career path of graduates like Gill, who are committed to justice and legal leadership.

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Innovators and Contemporary Culture Shapers: The Next Generation of Notable Alumni

The Lewis & Clark community is not just defined by politicians and actors; it is also a breeding ground for contemporary artists, entrepreneurs, and athletes who are making their mark in the modern world.

Weyes Blood (Natalie Mering) (Attended) – Acclaimed Indie Musician

Natalie Mering, known professionally as Weyes Blood, is a highly influential contemporary musician whose work has garnered critical acclaim across the globe. Her distinctive style of baroque pop and folk has made her a favorite among music critics and a staple in the indie music scene. While her last major album release was in 2022, her continued touring and presence, including a remix appearance in February 2024, keep her at the forefront of modern music. Mering represents the college's strong connection to the arts and the vibrant music culture of the Pacific Northwest.

Muhammad bin Nayef (Attended) – Former Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia

A unique and powerful figure on the global stage, Muhammad bin Nayef attended Lewis & Clark College. He served as the Crown Prince and Deputy Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, as well as the Minister of Interior, until 2017. His education at Lewis & Clark, alongside his significant political and security roles in the Middle East, highlights the college's diverse and international reach, producing leaders in complex geopolitical environments.

Stephen Babson – Venture Capitalist and Investor

Lewis & Clark alumni also thrive in the world of finance and technology. Stephen Babson is a successful venture capitalist and investor who co-founded firms specifically aimed at supporting tech startups. His career path exemplifies how a liberal arts education from Lewis & Clark can provide the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary to succeed in the high-stakes, fast-moving world of venture capital and entrepreneurial finance. Other entrepreneurial alumni, such as John Kray (BA '17), who co-founded a 3D printing startup, continue to emerge from the physics and computer science programs.

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Other Influential Lewis & Clark Entities and Alumni

• Matt Biondi (BA '00): An American swimmer and eleven-time Olympic medalist, showcasing the college's athletic prowess.
• Markie Post (BA '69): A beloved actress known for her roles in *The Fall Guy* and *Night Court*.
• Heidi Heitkamp: Former U.S. Senator for North Dakota, further solidifying the college's political network.
• Beatrice Morrow Cannady (JD '22): A historic civil rights activist and newspaper editor, a powerful figure from the Law School's past.
• Frances Swanson (BA '17): Recognized in 2024 for her achievements, representing the newest crop of successful graduates.

The Enduring Legacy of the Pioneers

The Lewis & Clark College notable alumni list is more than just a collection of famous names; it’s a living testament to the institution’s ability to cultivate critical thinkers, bold leaders, and creative forces. As of late 2025, the college’s graduates are actively involved in shaping the future—from Monica Lewinsky’s powerful new platform in the media to Ty Burrell and Penn Badgley's continued dominance in Hollywood, and the consistent political influence of figures like Earl Blumenauer. The Law School continues to generate leaders in environmental law and public service, while the College of Arts and Sciences fuels the next wave of entrepreneurs and cultural icons like Weyes Blood. The *Pioneer* spirit of exploration and impact is clearly alive and well, ensuring that Lewis & Clark's influence on global culture and politics will only continue to grow.

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