March 15

Christian Michelsen was born in 1857 and built a successful shipping and trade business before entering politics. As leader of the Norwegian Coalition Party, he played a central role in the peaceful dissolution of the union with Sweden in 1905. Michelsen became Norway's first Prime Minister, guiding the new nation through its formative years. He negotiated international recognition for Norway's independence and helped draft the Norwegian constitution. After leaving office in 1907, he continued to influence politics and commerce. Michelsen's leadership ensured Norway's smooth transition to sovereignty and established his legacy as a founding father of modern Norway.

Steven J. Witkoff founded the Witkoff Group in 1987 and built it into a leading real estate development and investment firm focusing on iconic properties in New York City. A graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Law School, he began his career as an attorney before turning to real estate finance and acquisitions. Witkoff has overseen the transformation of historic buildings into luxury residential and hospitality projects, blending preservation with innovation. He is active in philanthropic endeavors, supporting urban renewal initiatives and entrepreneurship programs. Witkoff has served on the boards of cultural institutions and nonprofit organizations. His vision and leadership have made a lasting impact on the city’s skyline and community development.