January 18

Sam Zemurray emigrated from Russia to the United States as a child. He began working in the banana trade in New Orleans and established the Cuyamel Fruit Company in 1911. Through aggressive tactics and vertical integration, he expanded his business throughout Central America. In 1930, he orchestrated the merger of Cuyamel with United Fruit Company and later served as its president. Zemurray was known for his hands-on management style and his influence on U.S. foreign policy in Latin America. He became a noted philanthropist, supporting universities and cultural institutions until his death in 1961.

Gaston Gallimard began his career as a bookseller before co-founding the Nouvelle Revue Française in 1909. In 1911, he established Éditions Gallimard, which became renowned for publishing leading writers of the 20th century. He championed authors such as Marcel Proust, André Gide, and Albert Camus, shaping modern French literature. Under his leadership, the company diversified into art books and expanded internationally. Gallimard guided the firm through the challenges of both World Wars, maintaining high editorial standards. He remained active in the publishing world until his death in 1975, leaving a lasting cultural legacy.

Born in 1917 in Yingge, Taiwan, Wang Yung-ching started his career as an accountant. In 1954, he co-founded Formosa Plastics Company, focusing on flexible plastics and later petrochemicals. Under his leadership, the company expanded into electronics, steel, and biotechnology. Wang’s aggressive growth strategies fueled Taiwan’s economic development during the second half of the 20th century. He was known for his frugal management style and philanthropic support for education and healthcare. He passed away in 2008, leaving a vast industrial legacy and significant charitable foundations.

Ray Dolby was an American engineer born on January 18, 1933. He founded Dolby Laboratories, pioneering noise-reduction and audio encoding technologies that transformed the sound quality of records, films, and broadcasts. His innovations laid the groundwork for modern surround sound systems in cinemas and home entertainment. Dolby held numerous patents and received industry accolades for his contributions to audio engineering. His work continues to shape the way people experience sound in media. He passed away in 2013.

Rocco Forte is a British entrepreneur born in 1945 who built a global luxury hotel empire. After earning a degree from the University of Oxford, he co-founded Rocco Forte Hotels in 1996 following the sale of his family’s business. Under his leadership, the group expanded to include iconic properties in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. He is celebrated for his commitment to heritage restoration and innovative hospitality experiences. Beyond business, Forte supports educational and cultural charities, funding scholarships and arts initiatives. His blend of entrepreneurial vision and philanthropic work has made him a respected figure in the hotel industry.

Paul Joseph Deighton, Baron Deighton, is an English investment banker and life peer. He rose to prominence as the chief executive of the London 2012 Olympic Delivery Authority, overseeing the planning and construction of the Games' venues and infrastructure. After the Olympics, he served as Commercial Secretary to the Treasury, advising on economic policy and government investment. Deighton started his career at Goldman Sachs and later held senior roles in European investment firms. He was appointed a life peer in 2010, taking the title Baron Deighton of Carshalton. His leadership in both finance and public service has made him a notable figure in modern British governance.

Michael 'Burnie' Burns is an American filmmaker and internet pioneer. He co-founded Rooster Teeth Productions and launched the groundbreaking web series Red vs. Blue. As a director and producer, he has overseen a range of animated and live-action content. Burns has acted in many Rooster Teeth productions and appears at conventions worldwide. He played a key role in establishing machinima as a popular online medium. Outside of Rooster Teeth, he has developed original series and media projects. His innovative approach has influenced digital entertainment and streaming culture.

Joe Kehoskie is an American baseball executive known for his work as an agent and consultant. He has represented professional baseball players in major and minor leagues. Kehoskie has provided legal and business consultancy to baseball leagues worldwide. He authored works on baseball negotiations and the economics of the sport. Through his firm, he has assisted in developing baseball infrastructure in emerging markets. His expertise bridges on-field talent management and the global business of baseball.