W. Don Cornwell
MBA 1971
Broadcast executive and businessman W. Don Cornwell was hired by Goldman Sachs in 1971 and later promoted to chief operating officer of the investment banking division's corporate finance department.
In 1988, Cornwell left the securities firm to found Granite Broadcasting Corporation. During his 21 years as chairman and CEO, the company purchased 15 television stations and became the largest African American-controlled television broadcasting company in America.
Cornwell has received numerous honors and corporate directorships throughout his career including serving on the boards of Pfizer, Avon Products, American International Group, and CVS-Caremark Corporation.