Julia Koch, the widow of industrialist David Koch, is one of the wealthiest women in the world, with an estimated net worth of over $60 billion. Her fortune stems from her late husband’s stake in Koch Industries, one of the largest privately held companies in the world, with interests ranging from oil and chemicals to finance and real estate. Since David Koch’s passing in 2019, Julia Koch has taken on the responsibility of managing the Koch family’s vast wealth, while also becoming a significant force in philanthropy.
Born in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1962, Julia Koch’s early career was in fashion, where she worked as an assistant to designer Adolfo and styled high-profile clients, including former First Lady Nancy Reagan. After marrying David Koch in 1996, Julia became more involved in his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the areas of healthcare and the arts.
Together with David, Julia was a major benefactor of numerous charitable causes, including medical research, education, and cultural institutions. Following her husband’s death, Julia has continued to support these causes, maintaining the Koch family’s legacy of philanthropy. She serves on the board of trustees for several organizations, including the David H. Koch Foundation, which has donated hundreds of millions of dollars to medical research and cultural initiatives.
Despite her enormous wealth and influence, Julia Koch tends to keep a relatively low profile, focusing on her role as a philanthropist and mother to her three children. Her contributions to the Koch family’s charitable efforts ensure that David Koch’s legacy of giving and support for scientific and cultural advancements continues well into the future.
