January 29

John D. Rockefeller Jr. (1874–1960) was the eldest son of Standard Oil founder John D. Rockefeller and a leading philanthropist in the early 20th century. He managed his family's vast fortune and directed major contributions to educational, medical, and conservation causes. Rockefeller Jr. funded landmark projects such as the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg and the construction of the United Nations headquarters in New York. He also commissioned the development of Rockefeller Center, turning a former city block into a celebrated complex of art deco buildings. Passionate about public service, he supported institutions like the Rockefeller Foundation and the General Education Board. His patronage helped establish medical research programs at universities and significant conservation efforts to preserve American landscapes. Despite personal tragedies, including the loss of his son in a mining disaster, he remained dedicated to philanthropic work until his death in 1960.

Allen B. DuMont was an American engineer and inventor who made critical advancements in cathode-ray tube technology for television displays. In 1942, he founded DuMont Laboratories, which supplied high-quality television receivers to early broadcasters. He launched the DuMont Television Network in 1946, one of the first commercial TV networks in the United States. DuMont’s innovations helped establish television as a mass medium. He continued to contribute to broadcasting technology and served as a leading figure in early television development.

E. P. Taylor was a Canadian entrepreneur who built a vast business empire through his conglomerate, the Argus Corporation. He was also a passionate horse breeder, founding the Windfields Farm which produced champions such as Northern Dancer. Taylor played a pivotal role in modernizing Canada’s horse racing industry and was inducted into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame. His philanthropic efforts supported education, health care, and cultural institutions. Taylor’s legacy spans both global business and international horse racing circles.

Paul Gayten was born in Kentwood, Louisiana, in 1920. He emerged as a talented jazz and R&B pianist in New Orleans during the 1940s, leading his own band, Paul Gayten's Sizzlers. His hit recordings such as True (You Lied) and For You My Love helped define the sound of early R&B. As a songwriter and producer, he co-founded Regal Records and later managed DeLuxe Records, working with artists like Roy Brown and Big Mama Thornton. Gayten's smooth piano style and entrepreneurial spirit bridged jazz and rhythm-and-blues during a transformative era. He later operated a successful talent agency, supporting upcoming musicians. He passed away in 1991, leaving a lasting legacy in American popular music.

Lee Shau-kee was born in 1928 in Guangdong, China. He co-founded Henderson Land Development in 1972, which grew into one of Hong Kong's leading property developers. Under his leadership as chairman, the company undertook major residential and commercial projects across Hong Kong and mainland China, building a vast real estate portfolio. Forbes consistently ranked him among the world's richest individuals, with a net worth in the tens of billions. Lee is known for his conservative investment approach and strategic acquisitions. As a philanthropist, he has donated generously to education and healthcare initiatives, notably at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. In 2019, he stepped down as chairman but remained an influential figure in the property sector. His vision and stewardship have left a lasting legacy in Asia's real estate market.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Tom Selleck rose to stardom as Thomas Magnum in the hit series Magnum, P.I., earning an Emmy Award. He has appeared in iconic roles on Friends, Blue Bloods, and films such as Three Men and a Baby. A California native, Selleck served in the Army National Guard and later became a noted wine producer and ranch owner. He co-founded the Quigley Canyon Ranch and Sonoma Valley’s Oakcrest Winery, blending farming with filmmaking. Selleck has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to television and film. His career spans over five decades, characterized by charismatic performances and business acumen.

Born in 1954 in Kosciusko, Mississippi, Oprah Winfrey overcame a challenging childhood to become the host of the groundbreaking 'The Oprah Winfrey Show', which ran for 25 years. She founded Harpo Productions and launched the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), expanding her influence in television and publishing. Winfrey earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in 'The Color Purple' and produced acclaimed films and series. She is a leading philanthropist, supporting education and empowerment initiatives worldwide. Consistently named among the most influential people in the world, she continues to shape media and culture.

Strive Masiyiwa was born on January 29, 1961, in Zimbabwe. He overcame early legal battles to establish Econet Wireless in 1993, transforming telecommunications across Africa. Under his leadership, Econet expanded into mobile money, broadband, and renewable energy solutions. Masiyiwa has invested in technology startups globally and holds board positions in international organizations. He is also a committed philanthropist, supporting education, healthcare, and economic development through his foundation. In recognition of his impact, he has received honors from the African Leadership Academy and the Clinton Global Initiative. Masiyiwa’s vision and entrepreneurial spirit have made him one of Africa’s most influential business leaders.

Jake Auchincloss is an American public servant and entrepreneur who has represented Massachusetts's 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2021. A former Marine Corps intelligence officer, Auchincloss co-founded a software startup before entering politics. He began his public service on the Newton City Council and later served in the U.S. Treasury Department under the Obama administration. His legislative focus includes climate action, veterans’ affairs, and economic innovation. Auchincloss is known for his bipartisan approach to governance and has introduced bills to advance renewable energy and support small businesses. His diverse background in military, business, and public policy informs his pragmatic leadership style.