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James Wolfensohn born 1933

Having grown up in Sydney, Australia, in a family that struggled financially, James D. Wolfensohn sought to alleviate poverty for others. As president of the World Bank Group from 1995 to 2005, he followed through with that goal. Wolfensohn trained as a lawyer and economist prior to becoming president of the organization, and he was driven by his belief that the World Bank should serve the world's people, especially those without adequate resources.

Wolfensohn revitalized the World Bank's efforts to eradicate poverty by illuminating the links among global economics, world stability, and peace. He initiated programs for debt relief to foster new growth in developing countries and waged a vigorous campaign to help nations combat corruption. Since leaving the World Bank, Wolfensohn has served on several boards and has won many prestigious awards, including the 2017 Carnegie Medal for Philanthropy.

Robert McCurdy (born 1952)
Oil on canvas, 2014
Gift of Ian M. and Annette P. Cumming
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