BILL MAYS

 The late business pioneer launched Mays Chemical Co. Inc. in 1980, which evolved into one of the nation’s largest chemical distributors serving the food, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors, among others. Mays further expanded his business empire to include media, restaurants, and real estate. The intrepid entrepreneur was also one of the leading Black angel investors, providing capital and advice to a number of minority businesses including partnerships with such BE 100s firms as The Chemico Group.