November 04

Albert Henry Stanley, 1st Baron Ashfield, was an American-born businessman who became a leading figure in London's transport industry. After joining General Motors, he was invited to manage the Underground Electric Railways Company of London, revolutionizing the city's subway operations. Under his guidance, the expansion and electrification of the Underground transformed urban travel and set new standards for public transportation. Stanley also served in political office, contributing to government transport policy and earning a peerage in recognition of his service. As President of the London Passenger Transport Board from 1933 to 1947, he oversaw continued network growth and modernization. His innovative approach bridged business acumen and public service, leaving a lasting legacy on London's transit infrastructure.

Bernard Marcus (1929–2024) co-founded Home Depot in 1978, building it into the world's largest home improvement retailer through innovative strategies and a customer-first ethos. Over decades, he amassed significant wealth, which he channeled into philanthropy supporting medical research, veterans' causes, and cultural institutions. Marcus and his wife have donated hundreds of millions to organizations studying Parkinson's disease, advancing education, and fostering the arts. His entrepreneurial vision and charitable endeavors have left a lasting impact on both the business world and humanitarian efforts.