Nonprofits/Philanthropy: DR. WILLIAM P. MAGEE JR.

As one of 12 children, Magee says, his sense of risk-taking and independence was established at a young age. Solo bus and subway rides to and from his New Jersey home helped solidify his character.

Early challenges and support, including from the high school principal who helped him get into college, set the foundation for his future success, he says. It’s reflected in the four decades he celebrates this year as Operation Smile Inc.’s co-founder and CEO.

Magee, a plastic and craniofacial surgeon with medical and dental degrees from George Washington University and the University of Maryland, respectively, started the international charity in 1982 with his wife, Kathy, a former nurse and clinical social worker. Since then, the global nonprofit has provided surgical and dental care to more than 326,000 people with cleft palate conditions.

Magee has received several humanitarian awards, most recently from Iona College (shared with his wife) and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Last year, GWU named him a Monumental Alumni in recognition of the impact he’s had on the world.

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