One American Success Story — Steve Schwarzman
Steve Schwarzman’s story is one of altruism and a willingness to put in the time. Forbes named him the fifty-third wealthiest individual in the US in 2008, even so it’s not money which makes this tale interesting but Steve’s unbelievable success in the finance world and his patronage of the liberal arts. His life is an inspiration to people worldwide and in addition he has made good use of his riches to change the circumstances of many people, too. Stephen A. Schwarzman and his partner Peter Peterson launched the equity management and financial advisory firm Blackstone Group in the eighties. And as know, the Blackstone Group pushed on to become the ground breaking business it is nowadays.
Steve grew up in the state of Pennslyvania. When he finished high school he opted for undergraduate study at Yale University. He took on an MBA at the highly esteemed Harvard Business school near Boston, MA. Eventually he would join the team at the leading investment bank Lehman Brothers. By the age of 31, he had already been appointed a managing director.
Steve Schwarzman donates to a range of liberal arts as well as teaching as an associate professor at the renowned Yale School of Management. What’s more, he is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in New York. Additionally, he told the press in Spring of 2008 that he was committing 100 million dollars to the New York Public Library to help in funding their expansion. He also serves on the board of trustees.
That’s why, America’s elite look to Steve for inspiration — last year he was identified amongst Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People on earth in recognition of his global influence in finance. His mastery of the business world has certainly been dramatic, and no doubt his generosity has given Americans an entirely new standard to live by.
When you consider his wisdom and commitment, it looks like there’s nothing he cannot attain. So, by way of a summary, Steve has grasped every last business opportunity offered to him, but he has equally used his fortune and status to do his best to improve the lives of his fellow Americans.
