July 08

Elihu Yale served as governor of Fort St. George in Madras for the British East India Company, amassing wealth through trade in textiles and spices. A generous patron of education, he donated books and funds to the Collegiate School in New Haven, Connecticut, prompting trustees to rename the institution Yale College in his honor. His legacy endures at Yale University, one of the world’s leading academic institutions. Though criticized for his administrative practices, his philanthropic impact has been celebrated for centuries.

Benjamin Holladay (1819-1887), known as the Stagecoach King, was an American businessman who built one of the largest stagecoach and mail delivery networks in the mid-19th century. He expanded his operations into railroads, shaping the development of western transportation. He founded the Overland Stage Company, connecting remote frontier towns and fostering economic growth along his routes. Despite financial challenges, his bold ventures laid the groundwork for modern American logistics and travel infrastructure. Holladay died in 1887, leaving a legacy of entrepreneurial innovation and frontier development.

Sir Joseph Ward (1856-1930) was a New Zealand statesman and entrepreneur who served as the 17th Prime Minister from 1906 to 1912 and again from 1928 to 1930. Born in Australia, he built a successful business in land and shipping before entering politics in his youth. As leader of the Liberal Party, Ward introduced social reforms including old-age pensions and workers' rights. Knighted in 1911, he faced the onset of the Great Depression during his second term, implementing measures to stabilize the economy. Ward died in office in 1930, leaving a legacy of progressive legislation and economic development in New Zealand.

Born in 1912 in Winchester, Tennessee, John Templeton became known as a visionary investor through his Templeton Growth Fund. He pioneered international investing and sought opportunities in post-war economies. Templeton used his fortune to fund scientific research, education, and interfaith dialogue. He established the Templeton Prize in 1972 to honor progress in spiritual matters. His philanthropic work spanned over 100 initiatives worldwide, supporting medical and philosophical advancements. Templeton was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II and passed away in 2008, leaving a profound philanthropic legacy.

Born in 1956, Ben Pangelinan built a successful career as a businessman and lawyer before entering politics. He served multiple terms in the Legislature of Guam, becoming known for his leadership on economic and education issues. As president of a family-owned company, he balanced corporate growth with community engagement. In the legislature, he prioritized infrastructure improvements and social programs to support Guam's residents. His ability to bridge the private and public sectors earned him respect from colleagues and constituents alike. He passed away in 2014, leaving a legacy of dedication to Guam's prosperity.