Rowan University’s alumni have made waves in many fields: business, education, public service, media, and more. Below are a few standout examples. They show how Rowan can be a stepping stone to big achievements.
1. Ric Edelman – Financial Innovator & Philanthropist
- Ric Edelman graduated from Rowan in 1980. Ric Edelman College
- He founded Edelman Financial, a major financial planning firm in the U.S. Ric Edelman College
- Beyond finance, Ric and his wife contributed significantly back to Rowan — for example, a large donation to the newly named Ric Edelman College of Communication & Creative Arts. Ric Edelman College
- His story shows how an alumnus can build a successful business and remain connected to their university.
2. Tanika Wilson – Health & Benefit Industry Leader
- Tanika Wilson earned her MBA at Rowan (2005) and has built over 25 years of experience in the health and benefits sector. Rowan University Business
- She currently serves as Director, Portfolio Execution at Anthem, Inc. where she leads large teams and manages complex healthcare benefit programs. Rowan University Business
- Tanika also gives back: she is part of Rowan’s MBA Advisory Committee. Rowan University Business
3. Sandy Gubbine – Healthcare Leadership & Innovation
- Sandra (Sandy) Gubbine, Rowan MBA 2007, is AVP of Revenue Cycle at AtlanticCare. Rowan University Business
- Her work focuses on improving healthcare operations, financial functions, and technology integration. Rowan University Business
- She exemplifies how Rowan’s business programs can prepare students for leadership in demanding, cross-functional healthcare roles.
4. Brian (and Nafisa) – Career & Personal Growth through MBA
- Another story from the Rohrer College of Business involves Brandon Graham, but also “Brian” (from Sandra Gubbine’s spotlights) who met his wife during the MBA program. Rowan University Business
- Students like them show how Rowan’s graduate programs offer not just academic growth but also lasting relationships, networks, and life opportunities.
5. William J. Castner & Dr. Ira Monka – Distinguished Alumni in Education and Service
- These are alumni recognized by Rowan for a lifetime of contribution. Rowan Today
- For example, Robert Belle Jr. and Joseph Renzulli (both former alumni) have had long careers in education, psychological research, or service. Renzulli is especially well known in the field of gifted education. Rowan Today
6. Katie Anthony / Kaitlyn Anthony – Non-traditional Path & Leadership
- Kaitlyn Anthony (MBA 2021) is a great example of someone following a non-traditional path, balancing her studies, leadership roles (like leading the graduate student & alumni group), and entering her career in entertainment management/supervision. Rowan University Business
- Her success shows that you don’t have to follow the “standard route” to make a strong impact.
7. Samantha Winterburn – Engineering Alumni Making a Difference
- Samantha earned her B.S. in Chemical Engineering at Rowan in 2016. engineering.rowan.edu
- She often cites that Rowan prepared her to work under pressure, apply technical knowledge in real life, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. engineering.rowan.edu
- Her story is great for engineering students: showing how the technical and collaborative skills you build at Rowan can translate into success in industry.
What Makes These Stories Special
Looking across these profiles, there are common themes that make them inspiring:
- Using Rowan as foundation + building on it
Many alumni used what they learned (technical, business, networking) as a base, then pushed forward — whether by founding companies, rising in leadership, or innovating in their fields. - Giving back
Several alumni remain connected: mentoring, donating, supporting programs, or serving committees. This shows that success is not just for self-benefit but also community impact. - Diverse paths
The alumni come from different backgrounds: business, engineering, education, healthcare, non-profits. Some took straight career paths; others had twists. All found success by leveraging their Rowan experience. - Overcoming challenges & nontraditional routes
Stories like Katie Anthony (balancing roles), or alumna who transfer, graduate later, or juggle family/work—All inspiring those who might feel their path is unconventional.
How Current Students Can Learn from Them
To use these stories to guide your own journey, consider:
- Seek leadership & involvement while you are at Rowan (student government, clubs, events) — many alumni began by stepping up early.
- Build relationships with professors, mentors, and peers—networks often help lead to job opportunities or collaborations.
- Take advantage of Rowan’s programs (internships, clinics, research, innovation challenges). These boost skills and confidence.
- Don’t fear non-traditional paths — balancing work, family, or starting later doesn’t limit your ability to succeed.
- Give back when you can — mentoring others, staying involved with Rowan, helps both you and future students.