February 14

Lydia Hamilton Smith was an African-American businesswoman born in 1813. She became the trusted housekeeper and confidante to U.S. Congressman Thaddeus Stevens after the American Civil War. Smith managed Stevens's household in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and later supervised his Washington residence. She oversaw property investments and financial affairs, helping to secure funds for Stevens's political work. Smith's acumen in estate management made her a respected figure in both local and federal circles. Despite the racial biases of the era, she maintained a prominent social presence and forged key connections. She died in 1884, remembered for her business skill and close collaboration with one of Reconstruction's leading politicians.

Chandrashekhar Agashe established the Brihan Maharashtra Sugar Syndicate in the early 1930s, transforming sugar production in India. His entrepreneurial vision and commitment to cooperation helped modernize the agricultural sector in Maharashtra. Agashe championed rural development, supporting farmers with fair pricing and technological innovation. Under his leadership, the Syndicate became a model for cooperative enterprises across India. Beyond business, he was a noted philanthropist, founding schools and hospitals to benefit local communities. His legacy lives on through the institutions he nurtured and the cooperative principles he advanced.

Hazel McCallion, affectionately known as Hurricane Hazel, was a formidable Canadian leader and entrepreneur. Before entering politics, she co-founded a consulting firm and built her reputation in the business community. Elected mayor of Mississauga in 1978, McCallion guided the city's growth from a suburban town to a major Canadian metropolis over 14 consecutive terms. Her hands-on leadership style and fiscal discipline earned her wide respect and shaped urban development policies. McCallion retired in 2014 at the age of 97 with a legacy of civic engagement and innovation. She remained active in public service until her passing in 2023.

Michael Bloomberg co-founded Bloomberg L.P. in 1981, revolutionizing financial data with the Bloomberg Terminal and building a global media and technology empire. In 2002, he was elected Mayor of New York City, serving three consecutive terms until 2013, where he championed public health initiatives, education reform, and economic development. Through his philanthropic organization, Bloomberg Philanthropies, he has pledged billions to climate change mitigation, gun control, and public health around the world. Bloomberg also ran for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination. With an estimated net worth among the world's highest, his influence spans business, politics, and philanthropy.

Carol Kalish was an American comic book publisher and distribution expert credited with transforming the comic book industry’s retail model. As the direct market manager at Marvel Comics in the 1980s, she developed innovative ordering and distribution systems that strengthened comic book shops across the United States. Kalish championed new talent and oversaw the launch of several successful imprints, expanding the reach of graphic storytelling. She provided editorial guidance and mentorship to emerging creators, helping to shape modern comics. Kalish’s efforts contributed to a surge in comic book sales and the rise of specialty retailers. Despite her untimely death at age 36, her legacy endures in the structures of today’s comic book marketplace. She is remembered as a visionary who professionalized and stabilized the industry.

Jim Kelly starred as the quarterback for the University of Miami before joining the Buffalo Bills in the USFL and subsequently in the NFL. He led the Bills to four straight Super Bowl games from 1990 to 1993, cementing his reputation as one of the league's most dynamic passers. Kelly's toughness and leadership on the field earned him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. After retiring in 1996, he transitioned into entrepreneurship, opening the Jim Kelly Foundation and launching businesses in the hospitality industry. Known for his philanthropic work, Kelly has supported cancer research and youth athletic programs. His enduring legacy includes both his on-field achievements and his contributions to the community.

Stelios Haji-Ioannou is a Greek-English businessman best known as the founder of easyJet, which revolutionized air travel in Europe with its low-cost model. Born in Athens, he launched the airline in 1995, growing it into a major carrier serving over 30 countries. He studied at the London School of Economics before embarking on his business ventures. Haji-Ioannou has been recognized as a pioneer of budget aviation and a prominent figure in European business. Beyond easyJet, he has founded several other ‘easy’ branded companies, including easyHotel and easyCar. He is noted for his outspoken views on deregulation and competition in the transport sector. His entrepreneurial success has made him one of the wealthiest individuals in the UK.

Bernie Moreno is an American entrepreneur who founded a leading automotive dealership group in Ohio. He entered the political arena as a candidate for U.S. Senate, advocating for job creation and economic growth. Moreno has been active in community development and philanthropic efforts throughout the Cleveland area. His business background includes innovative approaches to retail and customer service in the automotive industry. Through his political involvement, he has championed small business interests, infrastructure investment, and deregulation. Moreno’s dual career highlights the synergy between entrepreneurship and civic leadership. He continues to influence both business and public policy through advisory roles and community outreach.