He spent many of his 92 years as a mentor to other local businesspeople and entrepreneurs. Written By: Laura Butterbrodt | ×
Joel Labovitz at the University of Minnesota Duluth in October 1984. (Photo courtesy of the UMD Archives)
Joel Labovitz spent much of his life cultivating Duluth’s economic development, the effects of which are still at work today through the national retail chain Maurices; Labovitz Enterprises and the Lion Hotel Group; and the Labovitz School of Business and Economics at the University of Minnesota Duluth.
The entrepreneur, businessman and mentor died Feb. 13 at his home in La Jolla, California, at age 92.
“He was such an iconic entrepreneur, deeply embedded in Duluth and just cared tremendously about Duluth,” said Amy Hietapelto, dean of the Labovitz School of Business and Economics. “We are just so lucky that he wanted to have a top university and a top business school in the Duluth community.”
Duluth-based Maurices CEO retiring; former Express chief executive his successor Goldfarb will become chairman emeritus; former Express chief executive takes reins in Duluth. February 23, 2021 6:01pm Text size Copy shortlink:
George Goldfarb is retiring from his position as chief executive of Duluth-based women s apparel company Maurices, and former Express CEO David Kornberg will take his place next month.
Goldfarb, 61, has worked at Maurices for 36 years and spent a decade as president and CEO. As part of the transition announced Tuesday, Goldfarb will join Maurices board of directors and move into the role of chairman emeritus. It s been such an honor to lead Maurices, Goldfarb said in a statement. It is an unbelievable brand, with a winning track record, even during a global pandemic. I attribute that success to our seasoned leadership team and talented associates. David s experience will enable continue