Decades ago, a remarkable story unfolded in Mississippi when a washerwoman donated her entire life savings of $150,000 to help young people attend college. This act of generosity caught the attention of Ted Turner, the founder of CNN and a prominent media mogul. During a recent celebration of his life, Turner’s daughter, Laura Turner Seydel, shared how this inspiring act led her father to make an unprecedented donation of $1 billion to the United Nations.
At a gala in September 1997, Turner stunned the audience by announcing his monumental gift after receiving a Global Leadership Award. This donation was not just a personal achievement for him; it was the largest individual contribution to a charitable cause at that time, demonstrating how one person’s generosity can spark change on a global scale.
During the event, Seydel emphasized the importance of following her father’s example, especially in the face of today’s challenges. “Please use your ideas, resources, and ambitions to back the institutions that hold the world together,” she urged the audience, which included diplomats, U.N. staff, and philanthropists.
Ted Turner passed away in May at the age of 87 due to Lewy body dementia. Seydel reflected on her father’s love for the United Nations, which he considered his “headquarters” in New York. His ashes were scattered in places he cherished, including the chamber of the U.N. Economic and Social Council, where the celebration was held.
Turner’s $1 billion donation helped establish the United Nations Foundation, an organization that supports U.N. causes because the U.N. itself cannot accept direct donations from individuals. Since then, an additional $3 billion has been raised to continue supporting global initiatives.
During the celebration, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised Turner as “a one-of-a-kind visionary” whose efforts helped expand the U.N.’s reach and promote peace, health, and environmental sustainability. Former U.N. chief Ban Ki-moon noted that Turner’s foundation changed lives and urged everyone to continue championing the causes that Turner passionately supported.
Family members also shared heartfelt memories. Vasser Seydel, one of Turner’s grandchildren, expressed how his grandfather inspired him to push the limits of what is possible. The event featured performances of some of Turner’s favorite songs, including “Jackson” by Johnny Cash’s son, John Carter Cash.
Several prominent figures from CNN, such as Wolf Blitzer and Christiane Amanpour, shared tributes highlighting Turner’s commitment to global news and community. Anderson Cooper remarked that Turner’s $1 billion donation “was not exactly the easiest applause line in America,” but it showcased his courage to tackle what others thought impossible.
Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Ressa shared how working at CNN opened doors to unimaginable opportunities, attributing her success to Turner’s influence. Former U.S. ambassador to the U.N., Andrew Young, recalled Turner’s ability to see beyond race, emphasizing his inclusive spirit.
In a powerful conclusion, Young spoke about the spirit of unity he witnessed during recent elections, suggesting that Turner’s influence is still felt today. “You ain’t seen nothing yet,” he declared, reminding everyone of Turner’s lasting legacy and the importance of continuing his work toward a better world.
