EP88: A Lifetime of Service

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Lee Anderson, Class of 1961, as we explore his remarkable journey from his childhood in Minneapolis to his influential career and philanthropic efforts. Anderson shares intimate details of his upbringing with his father's transformation from an orphaned Swedish immigrant to a successful plumber and his mother's time in an orphanage. Discover how his father and half brother led him to West Point, setting the stage for a life of leadership and service. Anderson reflects on his formative years at West Point, significant mentors and athletic achievements in basketball, and his deep appreciation for his classmates, which instilled in him resilience and teamwork.

Lee Anderson is the most philanthropic graduate in West Point history. As a cadet, he played basketball. He began his term of service in the Air Force and assigned to Luke Air Force Base in Phoenix, Arizona. He served three years on active duty. Returning home to Minnesota, he became a salesman at APi Inc., a small insulation contracting division of Reuben L. Anderson-Cherne, now known as APi Group Inc. Through his tireless effort and vision, Anderson transformed APi from a small business with 13 employees into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise employing nearly 9,000 people. As a member of the Thomas Jefferson Society, Anderson and his wife Penny made a record-breaking $6-million gift to build the West Point Army rugby stadium, the Anderson Rugby Complex.

In this episode, we explore Anderson's transition from military to business success, where he transformed a family plumbing business into a major player in fire protection and construction. Learn about his innovative employee leadership strategies, including the implementation of an ESOP program, and the significant financial benefits created for his workforce. Anderson's commitment to philanthropy, inspired by his father, spans various causes, from veterans' affairs to wildlife conservation. His reflections on the profound influence of West Point and his ongoing dedication to giving back offers a heartfelt tribute to the enduring values instilled at the Academy, solidifying his legacy as a model of leadership and generosity.

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Key Quote:

“West Point is the greatest institution that I'm aware of that we have in this country. You think of the outstanding individuals in this country and a large number of them were West Point graduates. And I'm very, very proud.”

 - Lee Anderson

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Episode Timestamps:

(00:29) Lee’s Path to West Point

(05:12)  School Days and Influences

(10:51) Athletics and Extracurriculars

(17:55) Memorable Experiences and Mentors

(23:20) Experiences at Luke Air Force Base

(26:29) Building the Business Empire

(36:15) Philanthropy and Giving Back

(44:13) Reflections on Success and West Point

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