Sheryl Lee Ralph
Actress

Sheryl Lee Ralph entered Rutgers College as a premed student, but swiftly changed her major to English literature and theater arts after she encountered her first cadaver. She found her true calling when she landed the lead in a campus play. While it takes most students four years to earn a bachelor’s degree, Ms. Ralph was a “quick study” and completed the requirements in only three. She graduated near the top of her class at age 19, Rutgers’ youngest female graduate at that time.

Nothing complements brains better than beauty. Glamour magazine, recognizing Ms. Ralph’s star quality, named her one of the “Top Ten College Women in America.” Ms. Ralph went on to achieve critical acclaim in the entertainment industry. On Broadway, she originated the role of Deena Jones in the landmark musical Dreamgirls, which earned her a Tony Award nomination and a Drama Desk Award nomination for best actress. She returned to Broadway in spring 2002 originating the role of sassy chanteuse Muzzy Van Hossmere in the musical Thoroughly Modern Millie, which won six Tony awards. Ms. Ralph has starred in six television series, including the popular It’s a Living, Designing Women, and perhaps her best-known role in Moesha. Her film credits include Sister Act II with Whoopi Goldberg; The Mighty Quinn with Denzel Washington; and Mistress with Robert De Niro.