Charles Pratt
An American businessman and philanthropist who founded Pratt Institute.
Core Belief
"Education should be practical and accessible to all, enabling individuals to earn a living and contribute to society while upholding the highest moral principles."
Worldview
A belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of providing opportunities for self-improvement to individuals from all walks of life.
Personality
Industrious, energetic, and conscientious, with a strong belief in self-reliance and the dignity of labor. He was also modest, unpretentious, and deeply concerned with the welfare of the working class.
In Their Own Words
"I am convinced that the great problem which we are trying to solve is very much wrapped up in the thought of educating the people to find happiness in a busy, active life, and that the occupation of the hour is of more importance than the wages received."
"No man shall be a gentleman on _my_ money."
"My deeds must be my life. When I am dead, my actions must speak for me."
Other Characters from Famous Givers and Their Gifts
John Lowell, Jr.
A wealthy Boston merchant and philanthropist who established the Lowell Institute for free public lectures.
Stephen Girard
A French-born American merchant and philanthropist who established Girard College for orphaned boys.
Andrew Carnegie
A Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist who established numerous libraries.
Thomas Holloway
A British patent medicine manufacturer and philanthropist who founded a sanatorium and a women's college.
Sophia Smith
A philanthropist who used her inheritance to found Smith College.
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