During his prolific life, Charles Luckman (1909–1999) made significant contributions to business, architecture, education, human rights, and the arts. Born to immigrant parents in Kansas City, Missouri, he reached the apex of corporate success, the pinnacles of architectural achievement, and the highest echelons of civilian public service. His life left an indelible mark on many of the 20th century’s most recognizable brands, structures, programs, and policies.

After graduating with a degree in architecture from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Luckman initially pursued a business career, joining Lever Brothers in 1935. He became the company’s president by the age of 30 and played major roles in the successes of iconic products like Pepsodent and Lifebuoy.

In addition to The Luckman, his architectural work includes many of the nation’s most emblematic buildings and facilities:

Madison Square Garden and Penn Station in New York City; the Jet Age Terminal Construction Project and Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, CBS Television City, the Aon Center skyscraper, The Forum, and the Federal Building in Los Angeles; the 9200 Sunset center – home to Ford Models, Sotheby’s, and Comerica, as well as the Soho House on its penthouse levels, formerly the Luckman family’s private residence) – in West Hollywood; original parts of Disneyland in Anaheim; the master plan and campus expansion of UC Santa Barbara; NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston and Kennedy Space Center in Florida; and the Prudential Tower in Boston.

He also designed numerous other educational and governmental buildings. Beyond his business endeavors, Charles Luckman dedicated considerable time to civic and humanitarian causes. President Truman appointed him to the President’s Committee on Civil Rights, the landmark task force that laid the groundwork for future civil rights advancements in the United States. Truman later named him chairman of the Citizens Food Committee, addressing food shortages in post-war Europe. He also served as the director of the Freedom Train Program, which aided in the reconstruction of Europe.

Charles Luckman was honored with several prestigious recognitions, including the Order of St. John from Britain, the Legion of Honor from France, and the Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity from Italy. He served on the California State Board of Trustees from 1960 to 1982, twice as its chair.

A passionate advocate of the arts and education, he served as president of the Los Angeles Ballet and chairman of UCLA’s Brain Research Institute board of directors.

The Luckman Fine Arts Complex at Cal State LA is proud to bear a name that continues to inspire, impact, and influence.

Harriet Luckman was a prominent figure in Los Angeles, known for her extensive volunteer work and philanthropic contributions. She played a significant role in supporting various cultural, scientific, and social organizations throughout the city.

Harriet founded and presided over Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS) and the Muses of the California Museum of Science and Industry. Her commitment to community service extended to numerous other organizations, including Les Dames de Champagne, the Los Angeles Orphanage Guild, the John Douglas French Alzheimer’s Foundation, the American Women of International Understanding, the League of Children, and the Bel-Air Garden Club. In recognition of her outstanding volunteerism and community engagement, she received the YMCA’s Athena Award in 1989.

In 1949, Harriet and her husband moved to Los Angeles, where they became deeply involved in the local community. Her philanthropic legacy includes a named building at the Los Angeles Child Guidance Clinic – a testament to her commitment to supporting mental health services and aiding children and families in need.

Harriet’s life in Los Angeles was marked by her distinctive style and personal touch. One of the most beloved symbols of her presence in the city is her 1957 powder blue Thunderbird. The classic car, which she drove around Los Angeles for decades, was donated to the Petersen Automotive Museum, where it remains on display as a tribute to her unique spirit and enduring legacy.

Harriet’s life was characterized by her unwavering dedication to her community, her charitable giving, and her leadership in numerous organizations. Her contributions have left a lasting mark on the cultural, scientific, and social fabric of this city.

The Luckman was designed by The Luckman Partnership, Inc. who sought to reflect the beauty and strength of “old” California. Characterized by sun-drenched brick buildings and a tiered street of dramatic arches and columns. The Luckman has been described as a perfect blend of the old and the new: reminiscent of a Roman forum while maintaining the glorious spaciousness that defines Southern California.

Selected stage highlights: 
India Arie, Ballet Folklórico de México, Beijing Dance/LDTX, Kishi Bashi, Iva Bittová, Jane Birkin, Goran Bregovic, Carla Bruni, Buika, Carminho, Diego el Cigala, Cocorosie, Compañía Nacional de Danza de España, Lila Downs, Melissa Etheridge, Farruquito, Andy García, Gloria Gaynor, Martha Graham Dance Company, Seu Jorge, Etta James, Rickie Lee Jones, Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company, Angélique Kidjo, Chaka Khan, Yasmin Levy, Taj Mahal, Mariza, Matisyahu, Sergio Mendes, Aaron Neville, Les Nubians, Eddie Palmieri, Itzhak Perlman, Paco Peña, Madeleine Peyroux, Idan Raichel, Dianne Reeves, Rodriguez, Isabella Rossellini, Anoushka Shankar, Patrick Stewart, Yann Tiersen, Tinariwen, Chucho Valdés, Julieta Venegas, John Waters, Dionne Warwick.

Selected exhibition highlights: 
Jennifer Bolande, Kim Dingle, Kim Jones, Corita Kent, George Kuchar, Tu-2, Bruce Yamamoto, Andy Warhol.