June 18

Born in 1839, William H. Seward Jr. was the son of statesman William H. Seward. He served as a Union Army general during the American Civil War, participating in key operations in the Eastern Theater. After the war, he transitioned to civilian life and established himself as a prominent banker in New York. As a leader in finance, he helped develop local and regional banking institutions, leaving a lasting mark on the industry. He was known for his leadership, integrity, and vision in both military and business spheres. Seward Jr. died in 1920, remembered for his dual legacy of service and entrepreneurship.

Born in 1854, E. W. Scripps began his journalism career as a reporter before establishing his own newspapers. In 1902, he founded the E. W. Scripps Company, pioneering a network of affordable papers that served growing American cities. He was a strong proponent of editorial independence and innovation in news coverage. Under his leadership, the company emphasized local management and diversified into multiple publications. Scripps also supported journalistic education and mentorship programs. He died in 1926, leaving behind a media empire that continues to operate today.

Born in 1857, Henry Clay Folger rose to become an executive at Standard Oil, accumulating considerable wealth. A devoted Shakespeare enthusiast, he and his wife Emily meticulously collected rare folios, quartos, and related artifacts. He endowed the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, D.C., in his will to house this unparalleled collection and promote scholarship. The library opened in 1932, fulfilling his vision of broad public access to Shakespeare's works. Folger's philanthropic efforts extended beyond literature, supporting educational and cultural institutions. He died in 1930, but his legacy endures through the institution he created.

Tancrède Labbé inherited a successful family brewery in Quebec and transformed it into one of the region's leading producers. His business acumen fostered growth and innovation in the local economy during the early 20th century. Labbé entered politics as a member of the Legislative Council of Quebec, where he advocated for industrial development and infrastructure improvements. He balanced his roles in commerce and governance, using his legislative position to support small businesses and regional planning. Labbé's dual legacy in business and politics had a lasting impact on Quebec's social and economic landscape.

Robert Mondavi was a visionary American vintner and entrepreneur who played a key role in establishing Napa Valley as a world-class wine region. He founded the Robert Mondavi Winery in 1966, introducing new techniques such as varietal labeling and oak barrel aging. Mondavi collaborated with European wineries to improve viticulture practices and enhance wine quality. His efforts helped elevate the reputation of American wines on the global stage. Beyond winemaking, he was a dedicated philanthropist, supporting arts, education, and cancer research. Mondavi's legacy endures through his family's continued stewardship of the winery and widespread influence on modern wine culture.

Philip B. Crosby was a distinguished business executive and management consultant who popularized the principle that 'quality is free.' Through his company, Philip Crosby Associates, he advised major corporations on implementing cost-effective quality management systems. He authored bestselling books such as 'Quality Is Free' and 'Quality Without Tears,' which emphasized prevention over inspection. Crosby’s philosophies contributed to the rise of Total Quality Management practices globally. His work earned him the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, and his ideas remain influential in business and manufacturing.

Brooks Firestone, born in 1939, is an American businessman who served in the California State Assembly. He is a member of the Firestone family, pioneering sustainable agriculture and winemaking ventures. In the 1970s, he founded successful real estate and farming businesses in Santa Barbara County. He served as a state legislator from 1978 to 1992, focusing on environmental conservation and economic development. Firestone has advocated for renewable energy and community-based agriculture. He continues to manage business interests and support local educational and philanthropic initiatives.

Lee Soo-man (born June 18, 1952) is a South Korean singer, producer, and visionary entrepreneur. After a brief career as a solo singer in the 1970s, he redirected his talents to talent discovery and music production. In 1989, he founded S.M. Entertainment, which became one of Asia’s largest entertainment companies. Under his leadership, S.M. debuted iconic acts like H.O.T., BoA, TVXQ, and Girls’ Generation, shaping the global spread of K-pop. Lee introduced innovative training systems and multimedia strategies that redefined idol culture. He remains an influential figure in the music industry, guiding new generations of performers and producers.

Scooter Braun is an American music executive and entrepreneur. He founded SB Projects, a diversified entertainment and media company. In 2008, he played a key role in discovering Justin Bieber through YouTube. He has managed artists like Ariana Grande, Demi Lovato, and Carly Rae Jepsen. Braun is known for his influence in the music industry and philanthropic work, including charitable initiatives through his PLZ Make It Happen foundation.