February 20

Alfred Escher was instrumental in modernizing Switzerland’s infrastructure during the 19th century. As a visionary parliamentarian, he secured government support for the expansion of railways, linking the country’s major cities and driving economic growth. Escher co-founded Schweizerische Kreditanstalt (now Credit Suisse) to finance industrial ventures, establishing a model for modern banking. He also championed the foundation of the Federal Polytechnic School in Zurich (now ETH Zurich). Escher’s dual legacy in politics and business cemented his reputation as one of Switzerland’s most influential figures of his era.

Edward Henry Harriman revolutionized American railroads through strategic acquisitions and modernization efforts, notably with the Union Pacific and Southern Pacific lines. His reforms introduced advanced safety standards, efficient operations, and expanded routes across the western United States. Beyond business, Harriman endowed scientific research institutions, including a marine laboratory at Woods Hole and support for Stanford University. His generous philanthropy and industrial acumen left an indelible mark on transportation infrastructure and American society at the turn of the 20th century.

Born in 1899, Whitney inherited a legacy of finance and the arts. He co-founded Pan American-Grace Airways and invested in landmark films such as 'The Searchers.' As a philanthropist, he supported wildlife conservation, education, and cultural institutions. He served on boards including the New York Zoological Society and funded scientific expeditions. Whitney donated land for national parks and championed environmental causes. His diverse contributions left an enduring mark on American business and culture.

Leonore Annenberg was born Leonore Cohn in 1918 in New York City. She married Walter Annenberg, publisher and later U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom, playing a key role in managing their family foundation. From 1981 to 1989, she served as ambassador to the UK, hosting cultural and educational exchange programs. Under her guidance, the Annenberg Foundation donated millions to universities, arts institutions, and community initiatives across America. She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her philanthropic work. Annenberg also supported groundbreaking educational television initiatives and scholarship programs. She passed away in 2009, leaving a legacy of generosity and civic leadership.

Karl Albrecht was born in 1920 in Essen, Germany. Alongside his brother Theo, he inherited a small grocery store and in 1946 founded Albrecht KG, which would become the discount retailer Aldi. The brothers focused on low-cost operations, minimal staffing, and bulk buying to offer customers unbeatable prices. Under Karl's leadership, Aldi expanded across Germany and eventually internationally, setting a new standard in retail efficiency. He was known for his frugal lifestyle despite his immense wealth and rarely gave interviews. Forbes frequently listed him among the world's richest individuals. Karl stepped down from daily operations in 1993 and passed away in 2014, leaving a retail empire that continues to thrive.

Victor G. Atiyeh was born in Portland, Oregon, in 1923 to Lebanese immigrant parents. He began his career in the family rug business before entering politics. Atiyeh served in the Oregon House of Representatives and the State Senate, earning a reputation for fiscal responsibility. In 1978, he was elected governor and served two terms from 1979 to 1987, leading Oregon through economic challenges with budget reforms and infrastructure investments. He also promoted tourism with the slogan 'Oregon—The Way We Were.' After leaving office, Atiyeh continued to support public policy initiatives and charitable causes. He passed away in 2014, revered for his pragmatic leadership and community service.

Born into the prominent Vanderbilt family, Gloria Vanderbilt became a fixture of American high society and the subject of famous custody battles as a child. She launched a successful fashion career in the 1970s, creating the iconic line of designer jeans that bore her name. Vanderbilt also pursued acting, appearing a handful of times on screen and stage. As a writer and journalist, she published novels, a memoir, and a popular syndicated column. In later years she was known as the mother of journalist Anderson Cooper and continued philanthropic work until her death in 2019.

Matthew Bucksbaum co-founded General Growth Properties in 1954, building it into a leading real estate investment trust that owned and managed dozens of shopping malls nationwide. Under his leadership as chairman and CEO, the company grew through strategic acquisitions and innovative property development. A devoted philanthropist, Bucksbaum supported arts, education, and healthcare initiatives in his native Iowa and beyond. He served on multiple nonprofit boards, including the Aspen Institute and the Art Institute of Chicago. Bucksbaum’s vision and business acumen left a lasting impact on American retail and community philanthropy until his passing in 2013.

Born in 1937 in Shaker Heights, Ohio, Roger Penske began his racing career in the 1950s, winning multiple events in sports car and open-wheel competition. In 1966, he founded Penske Racing, which has become one of the most successful teams in motorsports history across IndyCar, NASCAR, and sports car series. Penske's entrepreneurial vision led to the formation of Penske Corporation, a global transportation services and automotive distribution company. Under his leadership, Team Penske has won dozens of major races, including multiple Indianapolis 500 victories and NASCAR championships. Penske is known for his emphasis on engineering excellence and team operations. He has been inducted into several motorsports halls of fame and received numerous lifetime achievement awards. Beyond racing, he is recognized for his business acumen, philanthropic efforts, and mentorship of future motorsport leaders.

Born in 1939 in Wisconsin, Herbert Kohler Jr. joined the family-owned Kohler Company in the early 1960s after completing his education. He became CEO in 1972 and led the company's expansion into international markets, diversifying product lines to include luxury fixtures and hospitality ventures. Under his stewardship, Kohler Company acquired and developed several premier golf courses and resorts. Kohler championed design innovation, collaborating with renowned architects and designers to elevate the brand's reputation. He was also a philanthropist, supporting art, education, and healthcare initiatives. Kohler received numerous awards for business leadership and community service. He passed away in 2022, remembered for his vision and impact on American manufacturing.

Anthony Howard Wilson was born in 1950 in Salford, England. He began his career as a television journalist with Granada Reports, championing punk and new wave music. In 1978, he co-founded Factory Records, signing groundbreaking bands like Joy Division and New Order. Wilson also opened the nightclub The Haçienda, which became a cultural hub for the Madchester movement. He hosted music television programs such as 'So It Goes', giving exposure to emerging artists. Wilson's visionary leadership helped shape modern British music before his death in 2007.