NSU Trustee, Community Leader H. Wayne Huizenga Named World Entrepreneur of the Year

(Photo) James S. Turley and H. Wayne Huizenga.

Nova Southeastern University Trustee H. Wayne Huizenga, the only person in history to have founded three Fortune 500 companies, was named the 2005 Ernst & Young World Entrepreneur of the Year at an award ceremony in Monte Carlo, Monaco.

The judges identified the consistent nature of his success, his ‘confident humility’ and his pioneering of many new business models over the years as his winning characteristics.

“Even now, despite his uniquely successful track record he remains as excited by his most recent idea as by his first,” said Howard Stevenson, Senior Associate Provost at Harvard University, and Chairman of the judging panel.

Among a truly exceptional group of entrepreneurs from right around the world, Wayne stands out not just for his business success but for his contributions to humanity.”

Gregory K. Ericksen, global head of the Entrepreneur of the Year program commented:

“When it comes to entrepreneurship, Wayne is the genuine article. He has consistently taken an idea to an exceptional level with deeply loyal teams. His personal qualities, the strength of his family relationships and his business leadership have had far reaching social and economic impact across the globe.”

Known by most as owner of the Miami Dolphins, Huizenga’s business interests are vast and varied. He founded three Fortune 500 companies—Blockbuster Entertainment, Republic Services, and AutoNation.

This is the fifth year Ernst and Young has bestowed the award but it’s the first time an American entrepreneur has won. The global competition involved review of comprehensive material (financial information and essays) by 12 judges. The 32 contestants were also interviewed by the judges.

Ernst & Young Chairman and CEO, James S. Turley, said: “ Wayne is a role model for every aspiring entrepreneur whether they are in Chicago, Copenhagen or Chunquing. His astonishing story of success will be an inspiration to every generation of entrepreneurs seeking to make a real difference.”

Huizenga was a Distinguished Lecture Series speaker on May 11 at the H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneur in Davie, Florida. The lecture drew an audience of more than 450 attendees. In January, he and Marti were honored with the President’s Community Award at NSU’s Celebration of Excellence.