August 02

Elisha Gray (1835–1901) was an American entrepreneur and co-founder of Western Electric. Founded in 1869, Western Electric became the primary manufacturing arm of the Bell System, producing equipment that revolutionized telecommunication. Gray's leadership helped standardize electrical device production across the United States. His business acumen and innovative spirit laid the groundwork for modern telecommunications manufacturing. Though often overshadowed by contemporaries, his company's legacy endures as a cornerstone of the electrical industry.

Jack L. Warner (1892–1978) was a key figure in the American film industry and co-founder of Warner Bros. studio. Under his leadership, Warner Bros. pioneered the era of sound in cinema with groundbreaking films like The Jazz Singer. He oversaw production of major hits and built the studio into one of Hollywood's 'Big Five'. Known for his sharp business acumen and strong personality, Warner influenced talent management and film distribution. His legacy endures in the global reach and enduring popularity of the studio he helped to establish.

Lamar Hunt was a visionary sports executive who revolutionized American football by co-founding the American Football League in 1959 and establishing the Kansas City Chiefs. He led the Chiefs to victory in Super Bowl IV and championed the AFL–NFL merger in 1970, shaping the modern NFL. Hunt's innovative spirit extended to tennis, where he launched World Championship Tennis and accelerated the sport's professionalization. He also founded the North American Soccer League and was an early investor in Major League Soccer's Columbus Crew. His contributions earned him induction into multiple halls of fame. Known for his entrepreneurial drive, he earned the nickname 'Mr. Everything' for his broad influence across sports. Hunt's enduring vision reshaped the landscape of American professional athletics.

Ronald Guy Brierley is a prominent New Zealand businessman who gained fame in the 1970s and 1980s through aggressive corporate raids. He founded the Guinness Peat Group (GPG), which became one of Australasia's largest investment firms. Brierley pioneered shareholder value strategies, introducing new standards in corporate governance. He was knighted in 1981 for his services to commerce and philanthropy. Despite facing legal and financial challenges later in life, he remained active in private investments. His career influenced modern corporate finance practices in Australia and New Zealand. Brierley's bold leadership and strategic vision have left a significant mark on the business world.

John W. Snow (born 1939) is an American businessman and politician best known as the 73rd United States Secretary of the Treasury. He earned degrees from the University of Notre Dame and the University of Chicago. Snow built a career in the railroad industry, rising to Chairman and CEO of CSX Corporation. He led the Treasury Department from 2003 to 2006, overseeing tax policy and international economic relations. Snow also served on the boards of several major corporations and nonprofit organizations. His tenure bridged the private and public sectors, shaping economic policy at the highest levels.

Born in 1943, Herbert M. Allison Jr. served as an Army lieutenant in Vietnam before earning his MBA at Harvard Business School. He rose through the ranks at Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette and later became CEO of Fannie Mae. Allison guided the firm through significant restructuring and took the helm at TIAA, steering the organization toward stability and growth. During the 2008 financial crisis, he played a key advisory role at the U.S. Treasury. A respected leader in finance, he also served on numerous corporate boards, leaving a legacy of strategic innovation and ethical stewardship.

Per Westerberg (born 1951) is a Swedish politician and business executive. A member of the Moderate Party, he served as Speaker of the Riksdag (Parliament) from 2006 to 2014, overseeing legislative processes and representing the chamber. Westerberg began his career in the private sector, holding executive positions in finance and industry. He was first elected to the Riksdag in 1979 and served in various parliamentary committees, focusing on economic and foreign policy. As Speaker, he guided Sweden through significant political reforms and international challenges. Westerberg is recognized for his leadership, consensus-building skills, and commitment to public service.

Laura Bennett began her professional life as a New York City architect before transitioning to fashion design. She gained national recognition as a finalist on Season 5 of Project Runway in 2008, where her structured aesthetic and attention to detail stood out. Following the show, she launched her own fashion label, offering modern, flattering designs for women and an innovative shapewear line. Bennett’s work reflects her architectural background through clean lines and thoughtful construction. She has been featured in major fashion publications and continues to influence the industry with her designs.