November 09

Jeanne Julie Éléonore de Lespinasse was born in 1732 in Paris and became a prominent figure of the French Enlightenment. As a businesswoman she managed various literary ventures and fostered a vibrant salon culture. Her salon brought together key philosophers, writers, and mathematicians such as Diderot and d'Alembert for discussions on literature and science. Through her extensive letters she engaged deeply with contemporary intellectual debates and displayed a refined literary style. Posthumously her correspondence was published, offering insight into her personal life and the broader cultural currents of eighteenth-century France.

Gail Borden was born in 1801 and initially worked as a surveyor and newspaper publisher. In 1853 he developed a process for condensing milk with added sugar, greatly extending its shelf life without refrigeration. He patented the method in 1856 and founded the New York and Texas Condensed Milk Company, which later became Borden, Inc. His product proved essential for feeding Union troops during the American Civil War and expanded access to dairy nutrition for children and families. Borden's innovation laid the foundation for the modern dairy industry and food preservation techniques.

David Wolfson (1935–2021), Baron Wolfson of Sunningdale, was a prominent English businessman and Conservative politician. He held executive roles at major companies, including serving as Chief Executive of Great Universal Stores (GUS) plc. He was appointed to the House of Lords in 1991, where he focused on business, technology, and European affairs. Wolfson played a key role in advising government policy on industry and trade. Known for bridging the worlds of commerce and politics, he advocated for free market reforms. He also contributed to charitable organizations and think tanks. Wolfson's leadership left a significant mark on British economic and political life.

Born in 1941 in Sydney, Singleton began his career as a copywriter before establishing his own advertising agency. He grew the business into one of Australia’s largest marketing firms, handling major corporate accounts and pioneering innovative campaigns. Singleton later expanded into media ownership, including radio stations and outdoor advertising networks. He has been recognized for his business acumen with industry awards and an Order of Australia honor. Beyond advertising, he has supported numerous philanthropic causes and engaged in arts patronage across the country.

Born in 1942 in Manchester, England, Victor Blank built a distinguished career in banking and finance. He served as chairman of Lazard International and later of Barclays Bank, guiding both organizations through periods of growth and challenge. Under his leadership, Barclays undertook major restructuring and expanded its global reach. Blank has also been a passionate advocate for education, co-founding charitable trusts and serving on university boards. His philanthropic efforts have focused on widening access to higher education and supporting cultural institutions.