Early Life
Gayle Marie LaJaunie Bird Benson was born on January 26, 1947, in New Orleans, Louisiana. She grew up in the Algiers neighborhood of New Orleans and attended Catholic schools, graduating from Martin Behrman High School in 1966.
Rise to Success
Benson began her career in secretarial and receptionist positions and in interior design. Following the death of her husband Tom Benson in 2018, she inherited ownership of the New Orleans Saints and New Orleans Pelicans. She became the first woman to own both an NFL and an NBA franchise.
Key Business Strategies
As owner of the Saints and Pelicans, Benson has focused on community engagement and maintaining competitive team performance. She has invested in player development, fan experience, and regional economic participation.
Philanthropy
Benson is actively involved in philanthropy, primarily through the Gayle and Tom Benson Charitable Foundation. The foundation supports various causes, including education, healthcare, and youth development, with a focus on creating lasting impacts in the Gulf South region. She has donated to the construction of stadiums, cancer research, and schools.