July 30

Born in Winterthur, Switzerland, in 1877, Joan Gamper moved to Barcelona and laid the foundations for a football club that would become globally renowned. He served multiple terms as club president, introducing the team's iconic blue-and-red colors and stabilizing its finances. A talented player, he took the field in Barça’s earliest matches and scored the club’s first official goals. Beyond the pitch, Gamper was a visionary businessman who fostered wide community support and local engagement. His tragic death in 1930 shook the city, but his legacy endures in FC Barcelona’s crest and motto, celebrated annually by fans.

Konstantin Kalser was born in Germany in 1920 and later emigrated to the United States. He founded production companies specializing in sponsored films and documentaries for corporate clients. In 1955, Kalser won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Subject for A City Sails. His innovative approach blended cinematic storytelling with marketing objectives and influenced the evolution of advertisement filmmaking. As an executive, he collaborated with major brands to produce memorable commercial campaigns. Kalser's work set new standards for educational films and public information shorts. He passed away in 1994, remembered for his contributions to the documentary and advertising industries.

Born in 1913, Beitz led major steel companies during Germany's recovery from World War II. Under his leadership, the firm expanded globally while fostering employee welfare. He championed social responsibility and vocational training programs for workers. Beitz's philanthropic efforts supported education and cultural preservation in his homeland. He received numerous honors for his services to industry and society. His vision blended economic growth with humanitarian values.

Born in 1914, Byrd Jr. began his career as a lieutenant in the Virginia National Guard. He later took the helm of a family-owned newspaper, shaping public discourse through journalism. Elected to the U.S. Senate, he was known for his pragmatic approach to governance. Byrd navigated complex political issues during his tenure, earning respect across party lines. His blend of military discipline and editorial insight defined his leadership style. He remains remembered for his contributions to both state and national affairs.

Julio Grondona (1931-2014) was an influential Argentinian businessman best known for his long tenure as president of the Argentine Football Association from 1979 until his death in 2014. He also served as a vice president of FIFA, playing a central role in global football administration. Under his leadership, the AFA oversaw Argentina’s successes in the 1986 World Cup and the development of national leagues. Grondona was known for his strong personality, political savvy, and ability to navigate the complex world of football politics. Critics and supporters alike recognized his knack for negotiation and his enduring influence on South American football. Beyond administrative duties, he was instrumental in securing sponsorships and broadcasting deals that modernized the sport in Argentina. His passing prompted tributes from football organizations worldwide.

Stuart Baggs (1988-2015) was a British businessman who rose to prominence on the 2010 series of the BBC reality show The Apprentice, earning the nickname 'TV's Richard Branson' for his confidence and style. At just 21, he founded VisiBiz, a telecommunications company aiming to serve small businesses, and secured high-profile clients. His media persona showcased his entrepreneurial zeal, winning both admiration and criticism. After the show, he continued to promote startups and served as a motivational speaker to young businesspeople. Baggs also invested in property and attended international trade events to expand his ventures. Despite his early success, he faced financial and health challenges before his untimely death in 2015 at age 27. Baggs is remembered for inspiring young entrepreneurs with his bold vision and ambition.

Herman Cain began his career in the U.S. Navy as a radar technician before earning an MBA from Purdue University. He rose through corporate ranks at Coca-Cola and Pillsbury before leading Godfather’s Pizza as CEO, tripling its size. After corporate success, he hosted a national radio talk show and became a sought-after motivational speaker. In 2011, Cain mounted a surprising bid for the Republican presidential nomination with his '9-9-9' tax plan. His campaign earned him widespread media attention and a devoted following, despite not securing the nomination. Cain authored several books on leadership, business, and political reform, leaving a mark in both corporate and political arenas.