Jacqueline Mars, the billionaire heiress and philanthropist, embodies the sweet success of Mars Inc., the iconic American candy company founded by her grandfather and continued by her father. From Skittles to Snickers, Mars Inc. delights taste buds around the globe with its beloved candy brands.
With an impressive annual revenue of over $45 billion, Mars Inc. remains a powerhouse in the industry. Jacqueline Mars, a key figure since 1982 when she joined as the food product group president, has played a vital role in the company’s journey to greatness.
Today, Jacqueline Mars’s net worth reaches a staggering $55 billion, a testament to her unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements. Her legacy continues to inspire and sweeten the world of confectionery.
Jacqueline Mars’ Sources of Income
Mars, the undisputed chocolate queen of America, has always guarded her empire closely, choosing to keep her company private and shunning the allure of the stock market. Her unwavering dedication to maintaining control has only added to the mystique and allure surrounding her chocolate kingdom.
Mars, Incorporated
Mars Incorporated, a true powerhouse in the business world, is not only one of the largest privately held companies in the United States, but also a delightful sensation.
From the iconic Mars bars that melt in your mouth to the vibrant explosion of Skittles, and the irresistible crunch of Twix, they’ve got your candy cravings indulged. But their reach doesn’t stop there – Mars also satisfies the appetites of our beloved furry friends with renowned brands like Royal Canin, Pedigree, and Nutro.
And let’s not forget the refreshing Orbit gum, owned by their subsidiary Wrigley. As the heiress of this remarkable business family, she holds shares and assets worth billions, truly a testament to their extraordinary success.
Jacqueline Mars’ Personal Life
Jacqueline Mars, born in 1939 to Forrest Mars Sr. and Audrey Ruth, has a remarkable story. The company she is associated with was founded by her visionary grandfather, Frank C. Mars. Growing up, she attended Miss Hall’s School in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, where her passion for equestrian shows blossomed. Her educational journey led her to Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania, where she pursued anthropology and achieved her degree.
Throughout her life, Jacqueline Mars experienced various chapters of love and companionship. Her first marriage was to David H. Badger, and together they raised three children: Alexandra, Stephen, and Christa. After parting ways, she embarked on a new chapter with Harold Vogel, residing in Bedminster. However, life took its course, and they eventually went their separate ways.
In 2013, tragedy struck when Jacqueline Mars was involved in a car accident on US Route in Aldie, Virginia. The incident, caused by her unintentional entry into the highway’s center line, resulted in a collision with a minivan carrying six passengers. Sadly, one person lost their life, and another suffered a miscarriage. Jacqueline Mars, charged with misdemeanor reckless driving, later admitted that she had fallen asleep at the wheel. Taking responsibility for her actions, she pleaded guilty and acknowledged the consequences of her actions.
Jacqueline Mars’s journey is one that encapsulates both success and hardship, reminding us that life’s path is not always smooth.
Jacqueline Mars’ Charitable Endeavors
She fully immerses herself in a myriad of philanthropic ventures, passionately focusing on the preservation of arts and culture. As a dedicated board member of the Washington National Opera and the National Sporting Library and Fine Arts Museum, she wholeheartedly contributes to their invaluable endeavors.
Moreover, she holds a prestigious position in the esteemed National Advisory Council of the Journey Through Hallowed Ground, an extraordinary National Heritage Area spanning from Gettysburg, Pennsylvania to Charlottesville, Virginia.
Her philanthropic spirit extends even further, supporting the League of Conservation Voters and serving as a dedicated trustee of the US Equestrian Team. Mars is truly an inspiring force, tirelessly striving to make a meaningful difference.
Ms. Jacqueline B. Mars is a renowned figure in the sport of eventing, providing unwavering support as an owner and patron. Over the years, her horses, including Winter’s Tale, The Native, Prince Panache, Giltedge, Regal Scot, Shannon, and others, have delivered brilliant performances as part of the U.S. Eventing Team.
Mars’ quiet yet profound support has positively impacted numerous event programs. Her commitment for decades has been focused on nurturing the next generation of Team riders and horses. Let’s immerse ourselves in her captivating journey!
Thanks to her efforts, many of today’s successful riders had the opportunity to participate in Young Riders Training Sessions with top coaches at the Gladstone headquarters of the USET in the 1990s. Today, her support for Young Riders and Young and Future Event Horses continues.
She has guided the careers of many top international riders while also fostering young talent and ensuring they have every opportunity to succeed on the international stage. What makes Ms. Mars truly valuable to the sport is her deep knowledge and understanding of horses, which she brings to her work on various committees and task forces.
Ms. Mars’s lifelong contribution to the equine world, particularly in event, is immeasurable, and without her, the USEA would not be the successful educational organization it is today.
Jacqueline Mars’ Equestrian Passion and Impact
Mrs. Mars received the National Archives Foundation’s Heritage Award. In 2011, Mrs. Mars and Mars, Incorporated supported the National Archives exhibition “What’s Cooking, Uncle Sam?” She served as Chairman of the WNO Board for six years and played a role in merging the Opera with the John F. Kennedy Center.
Additionally, she is Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Sporting Library & Museum in Middleburg, Virginia. She also serves on the board of the American Prairie Reserve and as The Kennedy Center Honorary Secretary.
Furthermore, she holds the position of Orange County Hounds President of the Board of Stewards, and is a member of The Wilderness Society council and the United States Equestrian Team Foundation, Member Finance Committee.
In sum, Jacqueline Mars’ life is characterized by her influential role in Mars Incorporated, her involvement in philanthropy focused on the arts, culture, and equestrian sports, and her commitment to fostering young talent. Her actions exemplify a legacy that intertwines entrepreneurial spirit with a deep sense of social responsibility and dedication to the betterment of society.
