At a time when the power and promise of the American Dream is more important than ever, the Horatio Alger Association is pleased to re-launch this special biographical show that examines the journeys of our Members. These are truly remarkable individuals who have led extraordinary lives on their paths to success
Publisher
Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans
Against the Odds - Adrienne Arsht, Executive Vice Chair Atlantic Council
Adrienne Arsht grew up with a strong belief in the power of resilience and hard work. Through community connection and a commitment to helping others, she has emerged as a role model for generations to come.
7 Aug 2026
Against the Odds - Fernando De Leon, Founder and CEO Leon Capital Group
Fernando De Leon was granted a rare opportunity: the “golden ticket” to pursue education in the United States. The journey was anything but easy, but against the odds, Mr. De Leon discovered the success that awaited him beyond the border.
7 Aug 2026
Against the Odds - Lee Greenwood, American Musician, Singer, Songwriter
A deep and unwavering love of country has defined Lee Greenwood’s life. His journey through hardship has shaped a lasting legacy through music, patriotism and an unwavering pursuit of the American Dream.
7 Aug 2026
Against the Odds - Jon Pritchett, Co-Founder, President and CEO Nextran Truck Centers
Jon Pritchett’s life is defined by three simple values: integrity, hard work and a commitment to excellence. Through humble beginnings and personal and professional sacrifices, he has redefined what it means to be a true leader.
7 Aug 2026
Against the Odds - Thomas Baltimore, Chairman and CEO Park Hotels & Resorts
Thomas Baltimore remains steadily grounded in his philosophy of “three P’s” – prayer, preparation and perseverance. He has excelled against the odds and today creates opportunities for deserving young people to access life-changing educational opportunities.
7 Aug 2026
Against the Odds - William Berry, Former CEO Continental Resources, Inc.
William Berry’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance. Throughout his life, he faced challenges that might have stopped others in their tracks. Instead, he leaned into education and reframed his adversity as opportunity.
7 Aug 2026
Against the Odds - William Mills, President and Owner MPW Enterprises, L.L.C.
As one of nine children growing up in southern Louisiana, William Mills faced financial hardship, academic struggles and personal loss. Through perseverance, faith and an unwavering drive to find his purpose, he built a successful career and philanthropic legacy to be proud of.
6 Aug 2026
Against the Odds - Tony DiBenedetto, Founder and Chair Think Big for Kids
Forced to become completely self-sufficient at a young age, Tony DiBenedetto believes deeply in the transformative power of education and how mentors can set students on a path towards a brighter future.
6 Aug 2026
Against the Odds - Victor Winkler, President and CEO Metro Metals Northwest, Inc
Raised by Holocaust survivors, Victor Winkler understood perseverance on a deep level. After taking over his family’s struggling scrap metal business, he transformed it into a thriving enterprise and now champions younger generations as they seek to overcome adversity.
6 Aug 2026
Against the Odds - Howard Dvorkin, Founder and Chairman Debt.com
After losing his father at a young age, Howard Dvorkin committed himself to his studies and fostered his entrepreneurial spirit, founding a company that helps people regain control of their lives.
6 Aug 2026
Against the Odds Christopher "Topher" Merrill, Co-Founder, Chairman and CEO Harrison Street
With a willingness to take risks and a resilient spirit when things didn’t always go his way, Christopher Merrill has built a business with global reach and now focuses on creating opportunities for others through mentorship and education.
27 Jul 2026
Against the Odds - Ken Kendrick, Managing General Partner Arizona Diamondbacks
Ken Kendrick’s journey from small-town beginnings to software entrepreneur and Major League Baseball team owner highlights the important role of risk-taking in success and in building a legacy you’re proud of.
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