Roxanne Quimby, born on November 7, 1950 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, had a humble beginning. She was raised in a middle-class family, with her father working as a salesman and her mother taking care of the household and her and her sister.
Quimby pursued her passion for the arts and obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the San Francisco Art Institute. This creative spark would later play a significant role in her entrepreneurial journey.
Quimby's life changed when she met beekeeper Burt Shavitz. Inspired by his rustic lifestyle and dedication to beekeeping, she decided to start Burts Bees personal care products. Initially selling honey and candles at local fairs in Guilford, Maine, the brand eventually evolved into a household name known for its natural products.
After selling Burts Bees in 2007, Quimby used the profits to fuel her passion for conservation. She invested in vast swathes of land in Maine, transforming them into national parks and protected areas. Her dedication to environmental preservation earned her a reputation as a conservationist and philanthropist.
Quimby's efforts to secure land for conservation faced opposition from politicians like Paul LePage, Angus King, and Susan Collins. Despite these challenges, she remained steadfast in her mission to protect the environment.
Outside of her business ventures, Quimby is a devoted mother of two children, whom she shares with George St. Clair. Despite her busy schedule, she finds time to balance her family life and professional commitments.
Roxanne Quimby's legacy extends beyond her business success. She is a symbol of female entrepreneurship and environmental stewardship, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps. Her dedication to creating sustainable solutions for personal care products and conservation efforts continues to impact communities around the world.