Julia Koch's Biography

Julia Koch is an American philanthropist and businesswoman, best known as one of the wealthiest women in the world. Born on April 12, 1962, in Iowa, Julia grew up in Arkansas and attended the University of Central Arkansas. Early in her career, she moved to New York City and worked in the fashion industry, famously serving as an assistant to designer Adolfo. Julia's life changed dramatically after marrying David Koch, the billionaire industrialist and co-owner of Koch Industries, one of America's largest privately held companies. Following David's passing in 2019, Julia inherited a significant stake in Koch Industries, making her a major figure in the global business landscape. Her estimated net worth surpasses $64 billion in 2024, placing her among the world's top billionaires. A dedicated philanthropist, Julia serves as the president of the David H. Koch Foundation, supporting medical research, education, and the arts. She is also known for her involvement with several charitable organizations and her passion for art collecting. Despite her immense wealth, Julia maintains a relatively low public profile, focusing on her family and philanthropic endeavors. Her story is one of transformation from small-town roots to the pinnacle of business and charitable leadership, making Julia Koch a notable figure in contemporary American society.