September 11

Carl Zeiss was born in 1816 in Weimar, Germany, and established his workshop for precision lenses in Jena. He pioneered the development of high-quality optical instruments, including microscopes and camera lenses, that set new standards for clarity and magnification. Zeiss collaborated with physicist Ernst Abbe to integrate advances in optical theory into practical design, leading to the modern era of scientific instrumentation. Under his leadership, the Carl Zeiss company became a global name in optics, fueling advances in biology, medicine, and photography. Zeiss's commitment to precision engineering and research laid the foundation for a legacy that endures in the world's leading optics manufacturer.

D. W. Brooks was an American farmer who revolutionized poultry farming by founding Gold Kist. Under his leadership, Gold Kist grew into one of the nation's largest poultry cooperatives. Brooks promoted fair business practices and innovation in agriculture. He guided the company through decades of expansion and modernization. He remained active in the industry until his death in 1999.

Dajikaka Gadgil was an Indian jeweller and entrepreneur who established P.N. Gadgil Jewelers in the early 20th century. Under his guidance, the family business expanded across Maharashtra and became synonymous with craftsmanship and trust. He introduced innovative designs blending traditional Indian motifs with contemporary styles. Gadgil’s commitment to quality and customer service earned his company a distinguished reputation. His legacy endures through the continued success of his jewellery houses and philanthropic contributions.

Daniel Wildenstein was a French art dealer and historian who led the Wildenstein gallery network, one of the largest art dealerships in the world. He expanded his family business into New York, London, and Tokyo, exerting considerable influence over the art market. An esteemed scholar, he produced authoritative catalogues raisonnés on artists such as Degas and Gauguin. Beyond art, Wildenstein was a noted horse breeder, developing thoroughbreds that won major European races. His dual legacy in the art world and equestrian sports made him a prominent and multifaceted figure.

G. David Schine rose to prominence as a consultant and close associate of Senator Joseph McCarthy during the early 1950s. His commission as a lieutenant in the Army Reserve and subsequent conflict over preferential treatment led to the televised Army-McCarthy hearings. The hearings exposed McCarthy's tactics and shifted public opinion. After the controversy, Schine pursued business interests and wrote on cultural topics. His role in one of the Cold War's defining moments cemented his place in American political history.

Born in 1939, Charles Geschke earned a Ph.D. in computer science before joining Xerox PARC, where he met co-founder John Warnock. In 1982, they left Xerox to establish Adobe Systems, pioneering desktop publishing with PostScript technology. Geschke guided Adobe through the creation and standardization of the PDF format, revolutionizing document sharing worldwide. He served as Adobe's president and COO, overseeing key product launches like Acrobat and Photoshop. Until his death in 2021, he remained an influential figure in the software industry, earning the National Medal of Technology.

With a doctorate in chemistry from Université de Montréal, André Caillé joined Hydro-Québec in the 1970s, bringing research-driven insights to public energy management. Rising to CEO in 1996, he guided the utility through market liberalization and expansion of renewable energy projects. Caillé forged international partnerships and invested in smart grid technologies to modernize Quebec's power infrastructure. He received the Order of Canada for his contributions to sustainable development. After stepping down in 2005, he advised global firms on energy strategy and continued to publish on environmental chemistry. His leadership bridged scientific research and corporate innovation.