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Billionaire Profile
Norma Lerner
Global Rank
#3014

Image: Department of Commerce. Bureau of the Census. 1913-1/1/1972 | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Norma Lerner

CEO, Banking
Cleveland, Ohio
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.24B
Estimated based on Banking stock value as of September 10, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
89
Source
Banking
Industry
Finance Investments
Citizenship
United States

Biography

Norma Lerner (born 1935/36) is an American billionaire and philanthropist, recognized for her significant contributions to healthcare, education, and the arts. As the widow of Al Lerner, the founder of MBNA, she inherited a substantial fortune. Her career has been marked by her leadership roles at the Lerner Foundation, the Cleveland Clinic, and the Cleveland Clinic Lerner School of Medicine. Her commitment to philanthropy is evident through the Lerner Foundation's support of various causes, including medical research and Jewish organizations. As of July 2024, her net worth is estimated to be $1.2 billion, a testament to her lasting impact.

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Data Updated
Sep 10, 2026
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Wealth Over Time

Net Worth History

YearNet Worth
2026$1.24B
2025$1.20B
2024$1.20B
2023$1.24B
2022$1.10B

Portfolio Holdings

Bank of America

Bank of America

BAC•Banking
Market Cap
$313.7B
Stock Price
$39.11
Charlotte, North Carolina
210,000 employees
Founded 1998

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Norma Lerner, born Norma Wolkoff in 1935 or 1936, married Al Lerner in 1955. Their union would last 47 years and produce two children, Randy Lerner and Nancy Lerner. Al Lerner’s career started as a furniture salesman. He later invested in real estate before moving into banking, eventually becoming the chairman and CEO of MBNA America N.A.

Rise to Success

Al Lerner amassed a fortune as the founder of the credit card company MBNA. The family's wealth grew significantly through MBNA, which was later sold to Bank of America for $35 billion in 2005. Norma Lerner's influence also expanded into the sports industry. She and her family owned the Cleveland Browns from 1999, bringing professional football back to Cleveland.

Key Business Strategies

While Norma Lerner herself has maintained a low profile, her late husband's success was driven by strategic moves in the banking sector, including acquisitions and mergers that propelled MBNA to become a major player in the credit card industry. The sale to Bank of America was a pivotal moment, ensuring a significant financial legacy.

Philanthropy

Norma Lerner is a dedicated philanthropist, chairing and presiding over the Lerner Foundation. The Lerner Foundation supports healthcare organizations, Jewish agencies, and temples. The Lerner’s philanthropic efforts include establishing the Lerner Research Institute and the Cleveland Clinic Lerner School of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, highlighting their commitment to medical research and education.

Career Milestones

1955

Marriage to Al Lerner

Married Al Lerner, who later founded MBNA.

1993

Established the Lerner Foundation

Established the Lerner Foundation dedicated to philanthropy.

1999

Ownership of Cleveland Browns

The Lerner family acquired the Cleveland Browns, bringing professional football back to Cleveland.

2002

Al Lerner's Death

Al Lerner passed away; Norma Lerner became the inheritor of his business ventures and philanthropic pursuits.

2005

Sale of MBNA

The sale of MBNA to Bank of America for $35 billion.

2006-2011

Member of the United States Holocaust Memorial Council

Served on the United States Holocaust Memorial Council and its executive committee.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Medical Research

Lerner Research Institute

$100M

The Lerner Foundation and Al Lerner made a donation to the Cleveland Clinic to establish the Lerner Research Institute.

Medical Education

Cleveland Clinic Lerner School of Medicine

$100M

The Lerner Foundation and Al Lerner made a donation to the Cleveland Clinic Lerner School of Medicine

Various Causes

Lerner Foundation Grants

Undisclosed

The Lerner Foundation provides support to healthcare organizations, Jewish agencies and temples.

Billionaires Connected to Norma Lerner

Peers in Finance Investments

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Richest in United States

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Adjacent Global Ranks

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Norma Lerner's net worth in 2026?
As of 2026, Norma Lerner's estimated net worth is $1.24 billion, ranking #3014 among the world's billionaires. The estimate is based on publicly available shareholding data and market prices, updated daily.
How did Norma Lerner make their money?
Norma Lerner's wealth primarily comes from Banking, most notably through Banking.
Where is Norma Lerner from?
Norma Lerner is from United States.
How old is Norma Lerner?
Norma Lerner is 89 years old.

Sources & References

  1. Norma Lerner — Forbes profile — Forbes