Huntsman Hall namesake, Jon M. Huntsman Sr., perhaps one of Penn’s most renowned alumni, held a book signing at the Penn Bookstore on Wednesday evening for his newly released memoir.
Huntsman’s book, “Barefoot to Billionaire: Reflections on a Life’s Work and a Promise to Cure Cancer,” tells of his entrepreneurial success as founder of Huntsman Corporation, one of the largest petrochemical companies in the world, as well as his commitment to donating his fortune to cancer research. The book also discusses Huntsman’s short tenure in the Nixon administration and his involvement in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Event attendees ranged from interested students to community members with long-time connections to Huntsman and his business. Christine Taber, for example, is connected to Huntsman through her father-in-law, who was one of his earliest investors. She purchased the book for her sister, praising Huntsman’s accomplishments and the way he has “helped to raise more generations of people interested in business and educated them.”
College freshman Chris D’Urso is just one of many people inspired by Huntsman’s story. He believes that Huntsman has been influential in the business world and that he is a “positive role model” for future business leaders.
Attendee Sam Hageman pointed out that in a world where businesspeople are trusted increasingly less, Huntsman has made positive contributions through his philanthropic work. “There’s a lot to learn from him,” he said.
Hageman also emphasized Huntsman’s “touching story” — his rise to the top and his decision to translate his monetary success into good. “The University and other places would be much better if we created more Jon Huntsmans,” he said.
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