Early Life and Education
Martine Rothblatt, born in 1954 as Martin Rothblatt in Chicago, Illinois, grew up in a Jewish family and was raised in San Diego, California. She displayed a strong aptitude for academics and a keen interest in communication. Rothblatt attended UCLA, earning a B.A. in communication studies in 1977, followed by a J.D./M.B.A. in 1981.
Rise to Success
Rothblatt's career began in satellite communications law, where she quickly became a pioneer. She founded several successful satellite ventures, including PanAmSat, WorldSpace, and Sirius Satellite Radio (now SiriusXM). Her vision for satellite radio revolutionized the broadcasting industry. However, a pivotal moment arrived when her daughter was diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension. This prompted her to transition from the communications sector to the field of biotechnology, founding United Therapeutics in 1996. Rothblatt later earned a Ph.D. in medical ethics from Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry in 2001.
Key Business Strategies
At United Therapeutics, Rothblatt focused on developing life-saving treatments for pulmonary hypertension and other rare diseases. Key strategies included a commitment to research and development, with a focus on innovative drug therapies. Rothblatt's leadership style is marked by a willingness to embrace new technologies and a commitment to ethical business practices. She is known for her focus on long-term sustainability and the well-being of patients.
Philanthropy
Rothblatt is the co-founder of the Terasem Movement Foundation, which explores the possibilities of mind uploading and digital immortality. United Therapeutics also provides its medications for free to patients who cannot afford them, reflecting Rothblatt's commitment to making a positive impact on the world.