Early Life and Education
Jeffrey Robert Lurie was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on September 8, 1951. His family had a strong background in business; his grandfather, Philip Smith, founded the General Cinema movie theater chain. Lurie attended Browne and Nichols School and later pursued higher education, earning a B.A. from Clark University, a master's degree in psychology from Boston University, and a doctorate in social policy from Brandeis University.
Rise to Success
Lurie's career took a significant turn when he acquired the Philadelphia Eagles in 1994 for $195 million. This acquisition marked a turning point for the franchise, which saw improved performance and success under his ownership. He transformed the team into a consistent playoff contender, and the Eagles secured two Super Bowl victories. Beyond sports, Lurie has also made a name for himself in the film industry. He founded Chestnut Hill Productions in 1985 and has produced several documentaries, including "Inside Job" and "Inocente," which have earned him Academy Awards.
Key Business Strategies
Lurie's strategy has been to create a winning organization. This involved taking risks, such as hiring and firing coaches, and investing heavily in the team. He has focused on building a strong team culture and fostering a commitment to excellence, which has translated into on-field success and increased the value of the franchise.
Philanthropy
Lurie has also demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy. He founded the Eagles Autism Foundation in 2018 and made a $50 million donation to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and Penn Medicine to create the Lurie Autism Institute. This institute aims to accelerate research into autism causes and treatment options.