Theodore J. Leonsis

 
Early Life and Education
 

Ted Leonsis is a highly accomplished figure known for his diverse and extensive career in various sectors including sports management, technology investment, and philanthropy. He studied American Studies at Georgetown University, a foundational education that has supported his dynamic career path.

 
Career at AOL
 

Leonsis began making a significant impact in the business world during his tenure at AOL from January 1993 to January 2006. In various senior leadership roles including President and Vice Chairman Emeritus, he was instrumental in the company's growth and innovation. His contributions helped shape AOL into a major player in the online space during its formative years. Leonsis retired from active management at AOL in 2006, but his career was far from over.

 
Monumental Sports & Entertainment
 

In January 2010, Leonsis founded Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE) where he serves as Chairman, Managing Partner, and CEO. Under his leadership, MSE has become a significant entity in the sports world, owning multiple teams including the NHL's Washington Capitals, the NBA's Washington Wizards, and the WNBA's Washington Mystics. MSE also owns the Capital One Arena and runs various other sports and entertainment facilities. Additionally, Leonsis plays key roles in sports media through MSE's broadcasting and streaming services.

 
Venture Capitalism
 

Beyond sports, Leonsis is also deeply involved in venture capitalism. He co-founded Revolution Growth in January 2011, focusing on investments that leverage technology to disrupt industries and drive growth. His prowess in identifying and nurturing innovative businesses has made him a respected figure in this field.

 
Board Roles
 

Leonsis's influence extends to the boardrooms of several significant organizations. He serves on the boards of the National Basketball Association (NBA), National Hockey League (NHL), and the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). Moreover, he holds board positions at American Express and Groupon, where he contributes to steering these major companies. He has been instrumental in the strategic direction of Groupon as the Chairman of the Board and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.

 
Emerging Digital Markets
 

In the realm of emerging digital markets, Leonsis co-chairs aXiomatic Gaming, which specializes in investments in esports and video gaming. He is also the founder and chairman of ViewLift, a company that offers end-to-end solutions for content distribution and monetization.

 
Philanthropy and Education
 

Leonsis doesn't just focus on for-profit ventures; he is also committed to giving back. He is an active board member of the DC College Access Program, helping students gain college education, and serves the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture as a council member. In education, he chairs the Georgetown University Entrepreneurship Initiative's advisory board, fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs.

 
Summary
 

Ted Leonsis's career is a testament to his versatile talent and dedication to driving growth and positive change. His journey from AOL to leading a sports empire and investing in disruptive technologies exemplifies a unique blend of visionary leadership and effective management. His ongoing contributions across various industries highlight his broad impact and commitment to innovation and community betterment.