Nearly 2,000 Koch employees, friends and family gathered on Wednesday, November 5, to celebrate Koch, Inc. Chairman and co-CEO Charles Koch’s 90th birthday.
Charles was honored with messages and personal reflections on how he has helped people improve their lives, from Koch employees, philanthropic organization leaders, and family members, including son and Koch executive vice president of origination and partnerships, Chase Koch, and Charles's wife, Liz Koch. Fellow Koch co-CEO Dave Robertson paid tribute to Charles and his lifelong journey of studying and applying principles of human progress to continually transform and help others improve their lives.
“Koch employees applied these principles and learnings to better themselves. Sometimes in ways they never would have imagined,” Robertson said.
Charles was surprised with a video featuring individuals who described how his principle-based approach inspired them to achieve their own unique potential. A separate segment showcased his role in shaping Koch into one of the world’s largest private companies.
Attendees were then treated to live music from 2ŁØT, a band in which Chase is a member. Chase noted that the group’s name is inspired by his father’s lessons about the second law of thermodynamics and the importance of resisting entropy.
Charles then stepped to the podium to express his gratitude and to share stories from his upbringing, education, and his deep connection to Wichita.
He said, "As you can tell, I'm so blessed. I've had a blessed life...I'm indebted to all of you. Thank you for being who you are. And thank you for helping transform my life."
