
Richard “Dick” Parsons
Late Founder and Chairman Emeritus
Dick Parsons was the founder of The Equity Alliance and one of America’s most visionary business leaders. Dick’s extraordinary journey—from his humble beginnings in Brooklyn to the highest echelons of corporate America—reminds us of the power of perseverance, excellence, and unwavering commitment to uplifting others.
The Equity Alliance, was an initiative born from Dick’s profound belief in the importance of leveling the playing field for historically undercapitalized leaders. It was his vision to create a fund that not only bridges the gap of economic inequity but also serves as a model for others to follow. As he eloquently stated in his emails to investors and partners.
Dick’s storied career has been chronicled in the media countless times. As the former Chairman and CEO of Time Warner, the former Chairman of Citigroup, and the interim CEO of the Los Angeles Clippers, he brought unparalleled leadership to every role he undertook. He was a trailblazer who left his mark on the boards of the Estée Lauder Companies, Rockefeller Foundation, Lazard, Madison Square Garden, and as the longtime Chairman of the Jazz Foundation of America