For nearly a century, Graham Holdings Company has been defined by a succession of leaders who prioritized long-term value over short-term gains. Our history traces a transition from a singular, world-class news organization into a diversified holding company — all while maintaining a consistent philosophy of integrity and independent thinking.
Eugene Meyer | Owner/Publisher
1933-1946
In 1933, Eugene Meyer purchased The Washington Post at a bankruptcy auction. His goal was not merely to own a newspaper, but to establish a public trust. By articulating principles of truth and independence, he created the ethical bedrock upon which the modern company stands.
Philip L. Graham | Publisher/CEO
1946-1963
Building on Meyer’s foundation, Philip Graham oversaw a period of significant expansion. He transformed the organization from a local paper into a multimedia enterprise — acquiring television and radio stations and Newsweek magazine — setting the stage for the company’s national influence.
Katharine Graham | Publisher/CEO
1963-1991
While famously celebrated for her courage during the Pentagon Papers and Watergate, Katharine Graham’s most enduring corporate legacy was her stewardship of the company’s modernization. She took the company public in 1971 and pursued the disciplined diversification that would eventually allow the organization to thrive beyond the newspaper industry.
Warren Buffett once said of her: “Kay understood the two most basic rules of business: First, surround yourself with talented people and then nourish them with responsibilities; second, consistently deliver a superior, ever-improving product to your customer. She always said that what she most wished for was a Pulitzer in management. In my book, she earned one.”
Katharine Graham’s impact reached far beyond the boardroom, touching every corner of the business and the community it served. Below is a collection of reflections from those who worked alongside her during the company’s most defining years.
- Warren E. Buffett: Kay Graham’s Management Career
- David Broder: Backbone of the Post
- Marc Fisher: Katharine Graham Never Lost Sight Of Her City
- Jim Hoagland: A Journalist First
- Sally Jenkins: Graham Blazed A Path, Sportswomen Saw the Light
- Robert G. Kaiser: The Storied Mrs. Graham
- Bob Levey: Katharine Graham: A Friend to Kids
- Mary McGrory: Evolution of a Newspaperwoman
- Bob Woodward: Hands Off, Mind On
Donald E. Graham | CEO
1991-2015
Don Graham’s tenure was defined by a visionary response to a changing media landscape — pivoting the company’s focus toward education, broadcasting, and digital ventures. His leadership ensured that while the Post newspaper was eventually sold, the company’s values and financial foundation remained intact.
That commitment is best captured in his own words:
"The values of this company — the focus on the long term, the insistence on excellence, and the belief in the people who work here — are not tied to any one asset. They are the asset."
Don Graham
Don Graham remains an active and vital presence within the company today as Chairman Emeritus.
FROM THE ARCHIVES
A Letter from Don Graham
Timothy J. O’Shaughnessy President and Chief Executive Officer
2016-Present
For a message from today’s CEO, click here.