U.S. News Announces the 2025 Best Leaders
U.S. News & World Report honors 25 remarkable leaders who are making significant impacts in various sectors, including business, education, healthcare, and public service.
A Comprehensive Recognition Program
The Best Leaders recognition program by U.S. News aims to spotlight individuals whose leadership is addressing critical challenges and issues facing our country. The 2025 edition brings attention to 25 extraordinary individuals who are transforming their respective fields.
Selection Criteria and Nominations
Those chosen for this prestigious recognition were evaluated based on vital leadership qualities such as empathy, generosity, and humility. U.S. News collaborated with The Harris Poll, a renowned market research firm, to survey participants across the nation about the leadership attributes they value most. Nominations were collected from the public, allowing a diverse range of voices to contribute.
Eric Gertler, executive chairman and CEO of U.S. News, stated, “The relaunch of our Best Leaders program underscores the urgent need to highlight individuals who are not just leading, but transforming important areas of our country. The 2025 honorees represent the very best of leadership today, exemplifying traits and impactful work that show what true leadership looks like.” He emphasized that by profiling these leaders, the aim is to inspire others to effect positive change within their communities.
Meet the 2025 Best Leaders
Let's delve into the categories highlighted in this year's selections:
Business Leaders
- Dario Amodei, Ph.D., CEO and co-founder, Anthropic
- John Hope Bryant, entrepreneur and founder, Operation Hope
- Mark Cuban, co-founder, Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company, famous for his role on NBC's 'Shark Tank'
- Judy Faulkner, founder and CEO, Epic Systems
- Alison Moore, CEO, Chief
- Ron Vachris, president and CEO, Costco Wholesale Corp.
Education Innovators
- Josefina Castillo Baltodano, J.D., founder, Executive Leadership Academy
- Walter B. Gonsoulin, Jr., Ph.D., superintendent, Jefferson County Schools
- Adam Grant, Ph.D., professor of management, Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania
- Christine M. Keller, Ph.D., executive director & CEO, Association for Institutional Research
- Sal Khan, M.B.A., founder and CEO, Khan Academy
- Dolly Parton, chairperson, The Dollywood Foundation
Healthcare Visionaries
- Allyson Felix, entrepreneur and healthcare advocate
- Michael J. Fox, founder of the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research
- Peter Jay Hotez, M.D., Ph.D., dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine
- Carl H. June, M.D., professor and director at the University of Pennsylvania
- Vijay G. Sankaran, M.D., Ph.D., professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School
- Eric Topol, M.D., director, Scripps Research Translational Institute
Public Service Leaders
- José Andrés, founder and owner of José Andrés Group; creator of World Central Kitchen
- Stephen Curry, philanthropist and NBA star
- Tjada D'Oyen McKenna, MBA, CEO of Mercy Corps
- Michael Milken, founder of the Michael Milken Foundation
- John Palfrey, J.D., president of John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation
- Laura J. Richardson, former commander of U.S. Southern Command
- MacKenzie Scott, philanthropist and author
Judging Panel and Evaluation
A panel consisting of esteemed figures from various sectors assessed the nominations. Judges included former government officials, educators, and industry leaders, who collectively evaluated candidates to identify the most impactful leaders. Their extensive backgrounds lent credibility to the selection process, ensuring that honorees exemplified true leadership.
Recognition Event
All honorees will be celebrated at a reception recognizing their achievements. This event will provide an opportunity to engage with these incredible leaders and learn more about their contributions to society.
Support for the Best Leaders Program
The realization of the 2025 Best Leaders program is made possible through the support of the NobleReach Foundation, illustrating the importance of collaboration in recognizing transformational leadership.
About U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report serves as the leading authority on impartial reporting and data-driven journalism, aiding individuals in making informed choices in every aspect of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Best Leaders program?
The Best Leaders program by U.S. News honors influential individuals across different sectors who are making a significant impact in their fields.
How are leaders selected for this recognition?
Leaders are chosen based on essential qualities like empathy and generosity, evaluated by a panel of esteemed judges.
Who are some of the leaders recognized in 2025?
Notable leaders include Allyson Felix, Mark Cuban, Dario Amodei, and José Andrés.
How can I learn more about the recognized leaders?
Visit U.S. News' website to discover more about the 2025 Best Leaders and their contributions.
Who supports the Best Leaders program?
The program is supported by organizations like the NobleReach Foundation, emphasizing the importance of recognizing leadership excellence.
