December 24

Jack Thayer (1894–1945) was an American businessman and a first-class passenger on the RMS Titanic. At age 17, he survived the ship's sinking and later provided one of the most detailed eyewitness accounts of the disaster. Thayer's memoirs describe the evacuation, the chaos on deck, and his efforts to save his family. After returning to the United States, he pursued a career in business and maintained an interest in maritime safety. His writings and testimony have been crucial to historians studying the Titanic tragedy. Thayer's legacy endures through his vivid narrative and contributions to preserving the memory of the event.

E. Roland Harriman (1895–1978) was a prominent American financier and philanthropist. He began his career at Kuhn, Loeb & Co. before playing a key role in the management of the Union Pacific Railroad. Harriman served as president of the railroad and helped steer it through growth and modernization during the 20th century. He was also active in numerous philanthropic efforts, including funding medical research and supporting cultural institutions. A member of the influential Harriman family, he was brother to W. Averell Harriman, a statesman and diplomat. His leadership in business and generosity made him a respected figure in American society.

Howard Hughes was born in 1905 in Houston, Texas, and inherited his father’s tool company at a young age. He expanded the business into aviation by founding the Hughes Aircraft Company and set multiple world speed records with custom-built planes. Hughes produced blockbuster films, including “Hell’s Angels,” applying his engineering expertise to movie production. His contributions advanced aerospace technology and film special effects. Later in life, Hughes became reclusive, focusing on development projects and health research. He died in 1976, remembered as one of the most influential and enigmatic figures of the 20th century.

Mike Curb (born 1944) is an American businessman, record company executive, and politician who served as the 42nd Lieutenant Governor of California. He founded Curb Records, one of the most successful independent music labels in the industry. Curb's business acumen helped launch the careers of numerous artists across genres like pop, rock, and country. He served in public office, blending his musical background with political service to support arts and education. During his tenure as lieutenant governor, he promoted cultural programs and economic development initiatives. Curb's dual achievements in business and politics have left a significant mark on both fields.

José María Figueres Olsen is a Costa Rican political leader who, at age 40, became one of the youngest presidents in his country's history, serving from 1994 to 1998. During his term, he focused on economic liberalization, environmental protection, and expanding digital infrastructure. After leaving office, Figueres led the World Economic Forum Latin America and later co-founded the Carbon War Room, promoting market-based solutions to climate change. He has held leadership roles in global sustainability and technology ventures, earning recognition for blending public policy expertise with business innovation. Figueres continues to speak internationally on leadership, climate issues, and economic development.

Mary Barra became Chair and Chief Executive Officer of General Motors in 2014, making her the first woman to lead a major global automaker. She has steered GM through a period of technological transformation, focusing on electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and sustainability. Under her leadership, GM launched landmark initiatives like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and committed to an all-electric future. Barra began her career at GM as an electrical engineer and rose through the ranks by holding leadership roles in product development, purchasing, and human resources. She is known for her strategic vision, operational expertise, and commitment to workplace diversity. Barra has received multiple accolades for her leadership, including being named to Forbes’ list of the world's most powerful women. She continues to drive innovation in the automotive industry and influence corporate governance standards.

Kate Spade was an American fashion designer who revolutionized the accessory market with her eponymous brand launched in 1993. She created clean, sophisticated handbag designs that blended practicality with playful color and pattern, quickly earning a dedicated following. Spade's business savvy led to the rapid expansion of her brand into clothing, jewelry, eyewear, and home goods. She sold her company in 1999 but remained a creative force in fashion, later co-founding the lifestyle brand Frances Valentine. Spade's design philosophy emphasized optimism, functionality, and timeless style, influencing a generation of designers and consumers. She received numerous awards for her contributions to fashion and chaired philanthropic initiatives focused on creativity and mental health awareness. Spade passed away in 2018, but her legacy endures through her brand's continued success worldwide.