CATEGORY: Philanthropists
COMPANY: Sunglass Hut
INDUSTRY: Philanthropy
WHAT MAKES HIM HAUTE: Ziff, a former optometrist, opened the first Sunglass Hut in 1971 as a freestanding kiosk in the Dadeland Mall. He expanded the brand throughout the city and eventually around the country before selling 75 percent ownership in the 80s for quite a hefty profit. When he sold his remaining stake in the company a few years later, he chose to dedicate the rest of his life to philanthropic endeavors, and the City of Miami has reaped the benefits. His generosity led to the Jewish Museum of Florida, which used to bear his name, but the Sanford and Dolores Ziff Ballet Opera House at the Adrienne Arsht Center still does honor his generous contributions.
