Chairman and sole owner of the $10 billion plus Carlson Companies, an international
conglomerate which includes more than 100 different companies providing employment
for over 118,000 people in 125 countries.
The Carlson Travel Group comprises one of the two largest travel agency networks in
the world. The Carlson Hospitality Group is a major force in the world's hotel, resort,
and restaurant industry and includes Radisson Hotels International; TGI Friday's
restaurant chain; and The Country Kitchen restaurant chain. Carlson, at the age of 24,
started his "Gold Bond Stamp Company", the trading stamp company that would
eventually lead him to other fields and to be known as "The Ultra Entrepreneur".
Minnesotan of the Year - 1976
Horatio Alger Award - 1979
Three Honorary doctorates 1976, 1983, 1985
Swedish American of the Year - 1981
Executive of the Year - 1982
University of Minnesota School of Management - Renamed the
Curtis L. Carlson School of Management - 1986
Masonry's 33rd Degree - 1987
Communication and Leadership Award - Toastmasters International - 1990
International Citizen of the Year - 1993
Business Leader of the Year - 1994
Legion of Honor - 1972
Initiated Minneapolis Chapter (Minnesota) - 1930