1932day.year

Dorimène Roy Desjardins

(1858 - 1932)

Canadian businesswoman, co-founded Desjardins Group

Canadian businesswoman co-founded Desjardins Group
Canadian businesswoman and philanthropist who co-founded the Desjardins Group, North America's first and largest federation of credit unions.
Born in 1858 in Sorel-Tracy, Quebec, Dorimène Roy Desjardins partnered with her husband Alphonse Desjardins to establish the first caisse populaire in Lévis in 1900. She managed the organization's finances as its inaugural treasurer and helped expand cooperative banking services to working-class Canadians. Her leadership fostered the growth of credit unions into a comprehensive network offering banking, insurance, and social programs. Renowned for her financial acumen and commitment to community development, she also advocated for greater female participation in cooperative governance. Today, the Desjardins Group stands as a testament to her pioneering vision and enduring impact on Canadian finance.
1932 Dorimène Roy Desjardins Desjardins Group
2014day.year

James E. Rogers

(1938 - 2014)

American lawyer, businessman, and academic

American lawyer businessman and academic
Visionary American entrepreneur and academic leader who transformed higher education through philanthropy and innovation.
James E. Rogers was an influential American lawyer, businessman, and university president born in 1938. He founded and led multiple financial and corporate ventures before turning to academia as the president of the University of Arizona. Rogers championed educational accessibility, spearheading major scholarship programs and research initiatives. Under his leadership, the university expanded its infrastructure and raised significant endowment funds. He authored works on education reform and corporate governance that are still referenced today. His philanthropic efforts funded libraries, scholarship programs, and community projects across the American Southwest. Rogers's legacy endures through the educational opportunities he created and the institutions he strengthened.
James E. Rogers
2024day.year

Dudu Myeni

(1963 - 2024)

South African businesswoman

South African businesswoman
South African businesswoman who served as chairperson of South African Airways and influenced national business policy.
Dudu Myeni (1963-2024) was a prominent South African businesswoman who served as chairperson of South African Airways from 2012 to 2017. She played a key role in managing one of Africa's largest national carriers and was recognized for her strategic leadership. Myeni became a central figure in high-profile controversies and legal challenges regarding airline governance. Beyond aviation, she influenced business and community development across South Africa. She remained an outspoken voice on national economic affairs until her passing in 2024.
2024 Dudu Myeni