Early Life
Edythe Broad was born on January 1, 1936. Details about her early life are limited, but she developed a strong value for helping others, a value that was ingrained in her from an early age.
Rise to Success
Edythe Broad met her future husband, Eli Broad, in high school, and they married a year later. Eli Broad became a successful entrepreneur, building two Fortune 500 companies: KB Home and SunAmerica. While Eli was the businessman, Edythe played a role in supporting his efforts and developing a keen eye for art.
Key Business Strategies
The Broad's success came from Eli's business acumen. In 1957, Eli Broad partnered with Donald Bruce Kaufman to build homes. By eliminating basements, their houses cost less, allowing young families to become homeowners. In 1971, Eli acquired an insurance company and transformed it into a retirement savings empire, SunAmerica. The Broads sold their businesses in 1999, for $18 billion.
Philanthropy
Edythe and Eli Broad are renowned for their philanthropy. In 1999, they founded The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation to advance entrepreneurship in education, science, and the arts. Their philanthropic efforts have focused on supporting K-12 public schools, scientific and medical research, and increasing access to contemporary art. They signed The Giving Pledge, committing to donate 75% of their wealth. Edythe continues this work after her husband's death in 2021.
