SENECA FALLS, N.Y. — For most of her adult life, Swanee Hunt has given away half of her annual income, a commitment she started in 1981 when she earned $70,000.
The daughter of the late Texas oil magnate H.L. Hunt grew much wealthier as her stake in Hunt Oil Co. skyrocketed, and so did the charitable foundation she launched 26 years ago to help poor people around the globe. So far, her donations exceed $120 million.
Today, Hunt, 57, is to be inducted to the National Women’s Hall of Fame, along with Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art dean of engineering Dr. Eleanor Baum, Minnesota environmental advocate Winona LaDuke and University of Rochester astronomer Dr. Judith Pipher. Julia Child, who died in August 2004 after bringing the intricacies of French cuisine to millions of home cooks, is among five women being honored posthumously.
Established in 1969, the hall acclaims women who have made valuable contributions to society and the freedom of women.
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