Ken Langone Self-Made Billionaire

Ken Langone A Self-Made Billionaire with a Passion for Philanthropy

Ken Langone is an American billionaire businessman, investor, and philanthropist, best known for co-founding The Home Depot, one of the world's largest home improvement retailers. Langone is also a prominent figure in the venture capital industry and has served on the boards of numerous companies, including General Motors, McGraw-Hill, and New York University.

Early Life and Education

Kenneth Gerard Langone was born on September 16, 1935, in Roslyn Heights, New York. He grew up in a working-class family and attended Roslyn High School. After graduating from high school, Langone enrolled at Bucknell University, where he studied economics. He later went on to earn an MBA from New York University's Stern School of Business.

Career Highlights

Langone's career in finance began in the early 1960s when he joined the Wall Street firm of R.W. Pressprich & Company. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a successful investment banker. In 1968, Langone played a key role in taking Electronic Data Systems (EDS) public, a landmark IPO that helped to establish him as a leading figure in the financial world.

In 1978, Langone co-founded The Home Depot with Bernard Marcus and Arthur Blank. The company grew rapidly and became a household name, revolutionizing the home improvement industry. Langone served as chairman of The Home Depot's board of directors from 1978 to 2004 and helped to guide the company through its most successful years.

In addition to his success at The Home Depot, Langone is also a prominent figure in the venture capital industry. He founded Invemed Associates, a venture capital firm, in 1974 and has invested in numerous successful startups. He has also served on the boards of several publicly traded companies, including General Motors, McGraw-Hill, and New York University.

Langone's contributions to business have been recognized with numerous awards. He has been named to Forbes' list of the world's billionaires and has received the Horatio Alger Award, the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and the Trumpet Award. He was also inducted into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame in 1997.

Philanthropic Efforts

Ken Langone is a passionate philanthropist and has donated millions of dollars to various causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts. He is a co-founder of the Langone Medical Center at New York University and has also donated generously to his alma mater, Bucknell University.

Langone is a strong advocate for education and believes that it is the key to unlocking opportunities for young people. He has spoken out on the importance of giving back to the community and has encouraged others to get involved in philanthropic endeavors.

Personal Life

Ken Langone is married to Elaine Langone, and they have two children. He is a private person and does not share much about his personal life.

Ken Langone is a remarkable individual who has made a profound impact on the world. He is a self-made billionaire, a visionary leader, and a generous philanthropist. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.