August 29

Born in Loudonville, Ohio, in 1876, Charles F. Kettering earned his degree in electrical engineering at Ohio State University. Joining General Motors in 1920, he founded Delco Electronics to revolutionize automotive electrical systems. He invented the electric starter, which replaced the hand crank and transformed car usability, along with many ignition and lighting improvements. As head of GM’s research division for over 30 years, he secured more than 300 patents across multiple industries. Kettering also established the Kettering Foundation to fund scientific research and social innovation. His legacy as a pioneering engineer and philanthropist endured until his death in 1958.

Iris Apfel was an American businesswoman and interior designer celebrated for her bold personal style. She co-founded the textile firm Old World Weavers and led design projects for the White House. Apfel became a global fashion icon in her later years, known for oversized glasses and layered jewelry. She launched a successful line of accessories and collaborated with top fashion houses. Apfel embraced social media and museum exhibitions, sharing her philosophy on creativity and aging. Her vibrant approach to life and design inspired generations to celebrate individuality and color.

Jacques Bouchard was born in 1930 and became a prominent Canadian businessman. Throughout his career, he held leadership roles in various companies, driving growth and innovation. His entrepreneurial spirit led to the establishment of successful ventures that impacted regional economies. Bouchard's influence extended to mentorship and investment in emerging businesses. He passed away in 2006, remembered for his business acumen and industry leadership.

Robert S. Langer is a pioneer in drug delivery and tissue engineering with over 1,500 patents. He co-founded multiple biotech companies, translating cutting-edge research into medical therapies. As a professor at MIT, he has mentored generations of engineers and scientists. His innovations include controlled-release drug systems and engineered tissues. Langer has been awarded the National Medal of Science and the Millennium Technology Prize. He is one of the most cited engineers in history, driving innovation at the intersection of biology and engineering.

David Boaz (born 1953) is an American entrepreneur and writer who has played a key role in advancing libertarian ideas through organizational leadership and published works. He served as executive vice president of the Cato Institute, where he contributed to policy research and public outreach. As an author, Boaz has written books and articles on economics, civil liberties, and government reform that have reached a broad audience. His clear, engaging writing style has made complex policy topics accessible to readers. He is recognized for shaping debates on individual freedom and economic liberalism. Through speaking engagements and media appearances, he continues to influence discussions on public policy.

Born in 1959, Timothy Shriver is a member of the Kennedy family and founder of the Special Olympics University. He has served as Chairman of the Special Olympics, expanding programs to millions of athletes worldwide. Shriver advocates for inclusion and empowerment of people with intellectual disabilities. He is acclaimed for his work in education, social development, and community engagement. Shriver has authored books on leadership, empathy, and the human potential movement. His leadership has shaped the global growth and impact of the Special Olympics movement.

Born in Seoul, Bae Yong-joon rose to fame in the early 2000s with breakout performances in television series like Winter Sonata, becoming a central figure of the Korean Wave. His portrayal of romantic leads earned him a devoted fanbase across Asia and beyond. Beyond acting, Bae has expanded into business, founding management companies and investing in cultural projects. He holds honorary accolades for his contributions to spreading Korean culture globally and remains an influential icon in entertainment and entrepreneurship.

Phil Harvey, born in 1976 in England, is an English manager whose career has focused on guiding artists and overseeing creative projects. Although specific details of his professional background are not widely publicized, he has earned recognition for his work behind the scenes in the UK entertainment industry. Harvey has coordinated tours, managed production schedules, and provided strategic guidance to emerging musical talents. His expertise in operations and artist development has made him a trusted figure among acts seeking to navigate the industry. He continues to support talent growth and manage creative ventures within music and media.