March 04

Born in Beirut in 1894, Corm studied engineering in France before returning to Lebanon to launch his career in publishing and business. He founded the Corm Press and played a key role in promoting Lebanese nationalism through newspapers and cultural journals. As a philanthropist, he funded schools, scholarships, and public works, aiming to modernize Lebanon's infrastructure and education system. Corm's writings and activism contributed to the intellectual foundation for Lebanon's independence in 1943. He invested in real estate and industrial projects, helping to spur economic growth in the post-war period. His legacy includes the Corm Foundation, which continues to support academic research and cultural initiatives in the region. Corm died in 1963, remembered as a visionary leader in both business and public service.

Avery Fisher (1906–1994) was an American violinist turned entrepreneur and audio electronics pioneer. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he studied music and gained recognition as a violinist before turning his attention to high-fidelity sound systems. In 1937, Fisher founded Fisher Electronics and revolutionized the consumer audio industry with innovative amplifiers and tuners. His commitment to sound quality helped establish standards for hi-fi equipment. Fisher was also a philanthropist, donating generously to the arts, and the Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center was named in his honor. He left a lasting impact on both the music world and audio technology.

Harry Helmsley was a visionary businessman who transformed the skyline of New York City through strategic property acquisitions. He co-founded Helmsley-Spear, a real estate company that managed iconic office buildings and hotels. Helmsley’s investment approach combined bold deals with meticulous property management. During his career, he oversaw transactions totalling billions of dollars. His legacy includes some of Manhattan’s most recognizable landmarks and philanthropic contributions to New York’s cultural institutions.

László Csatáry built his career as an art dealer in Hungary after World War II, gaining recognition for dealing in rare and valuable artworks. Decades later, he attracted international attention when Slovak authorities accused him of involvement in wartime atrocities during the Holocaust. In the 2010s, investigations led to renewed legal efforts to extradite him for trial on war crimes charges. Csatáry maintained his innocence and continued to work in the art world despite the accusations. His case highlighted the challenges of addressing historical justice many years after alleged offenses. He passed away in 2013 at the age of 98 before any trial could take place. The controversies surrounding his legacy continue to spark debate about memory and accountability.

Prince Michel of Bourbon-Parma (1926-2018) was a member of the Bourbon-Parma royal family who pursued business, military service, and motorsport with equal passion. After training and serving as an officer in the French army, he transitioned to managing family enterprises across Europe. As a businessman, he oversaw investments in industries ranging from hospitality to manufacturing. His love of speed led him to compete in endurance races and local circuits, earning respect among peers. Balancing aristocratic responsibilities with modern ventures, Prince Michel exemplified adaptability and a pioneering spirit.

Richard DeVos (1926-2018) co-founded Amway in 1959, growing the company into one of the world’s largest direct-selling enterprises. Under his leadership as chairman, Amway expanded internationally and introduced innovative marketing strategies. Beyond business, DeVos devoted substantial time and resources to philanthropic causes, supporting education, medical research, and community development. He established foundations that awarded scholarships and funded cultural institutions. His commitment to entrepreneurship and charity left a lasting impact on the global business community and countless beneficiaries.

Dick Savitt (1927-2023) achieved a rare feat in 1951 by securing singles championships at both the Australian Championships and Wimbledon. Renowned for his powerful serve and agile court movement, he reached a career-high world ranking and was later inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. After retiring from professional tennis, Savitt transitioned to a successful career in business and sports administration. He held executive roles and mentored young athletes, contributing to the growth of tennis programs in the United States. His dual legacy as a champion and leader continues to be celebrated in the tennis community.

Frank Wells (19321994) was an American attorney and corporate leader. He began his career as a lawyer before moving into the aviation and sports industries. In 1984, he joined The Walt Disney Company as president and chief operating officer alongside CEO Michael Eisner. Wells helped guide Disney through a period of expansion in theme parks, film production, and television. Under his leadership, Disney saw record revenues and global growth. He was respected for his strategic vision and collaborative management style. Wells died tragically in a helicopter crash in 1994, leaving a lasting legacy at Disney.

Robert Shaye started New Line Cinema in 1967 as a mail-order business before it became a major independent studio. Under his leadership, New Line produced blockbuster franchises including the ‘Nightmare on Elm Street’ series and ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy. Shaye served as Chairman and CEO for over three decades, pioneering new distribution models and nurturing emerging filmmakers. He received numerous industry awards for his contributions to cinema. After retiring in 2008, he remained an advisor and philanthropist supporting film education programs.

Michael Ashcroft, Baron Ashcroft is a Belizean-British entrepreneur, philanthropist, and former deputy chairman of the UK Conservative Party. He co-founded the telecommunications company BAT Industries and built a fortune as a corporate investor. Ashcroft has been recognized for his philanthropic work, donating to educational and medical charities through the Ashcroft Foundation. He served in the House of Lords from 2000 to 2015, influencing UK politics and party strategy. Ashcroft is also an author of political biographies and maintains a keen interest in defence and international affairs. His business acumen and political involvement have made him a prominent figure in both corporate and public sectors.

A descendant of the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Nicholas Coleridge studied at Charterhouse and Cambridge before entering publishing. He spent decades at Condé Nast, serving as editorial director of British Vogue and editor-in-chief of Tatler. Rising to CEO of Condé Nast Britain, he oversaw flagship titles and steered the company through digital transformation. Later appointed President and CEO of Condé Nast International, he expanded the brand’s global footprint. An author and philanthropist, he has written about fashion and culture and supported numerous arts and educational initiatives.