If you have looked around Auburn University in the past few years you have seen new buildings and rapid expansion of the school's footprint. If you look at the names on the buildings or trustee positions you notice they have something in common. The three richest people in the State of Alabama have deep ties to Auburn University.

It is impossible to navigate the "Plains" without noticing the name Harbert on several of the new facilities. Likewise, you will see the name of Jimmy Rane on the Board of Trustees and linked to projects related to Auburn. The three "Richest People in the State of Alabama" put their money and influence behind an institution of which they are alumni.

TOP THREE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE IN ALABAMA:

James W. Rane - "Jimmy" as he in known around the State, was born in Abbeville, Alabama, Rane is the founder and CEO of Great Southern Wood Preserving, Inc., a company specializing in pressure-treated lumber products. Rane’s success story is an inspiration to many aspiring entrepreneurs in the state.

Great Southern Wood Preserving, Inc. was founded in 1970 and has since grown into a multi-million-dollar business. The company operates several manufacturing facilities across the United States, employing thousands of people. Rane’s leadership and business acumen have played a crucial role in the company’s growth and success.

Rane’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 billion, making him not only the richest person in Alabama but also one of the wealthiest individuals in the United States. His success has allowed him to make significant contributions to various philanthropic causes, including education and healthcare. He serves on Auburn's Board of Trustees.

Raymond Harbert - The chairman and CEO of Harbert Management Corporation, is another prominent figure in Alabama’s business landscape. Harbert Management Corporation is an investment management firm with a diverse portfolio of assets. Harbert’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.4 billion, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in the state.

Marguerite Harbert -  Widow of John M. Harbert III, is also among the richest individuals in Alabama. John M. Harbert III was a successful businessman and founder of Harbert Corporation, an international construction and engineering company. Marguerite Harbert inherited a significant portion of her late husband’s wealth, which is estimated to be around $1.3 billion.

WEALTHIEST OUT-OF-STATE AUBURN ALUM:

Tim Cook - Cook is the CEO of Apple, one of the world's most valuable companies. He became chief executive in 2011, had previously served as Apple's chief operating officer under Steve Jobs. Cook joined Apple in 1998, having worked briefly at PC-maker Compaq and for 12 years at IBM. His estimated wealth in 2023 was $1.9 Billion.

Tim Cook is from Robertsdale, Alabama. He obtained a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering in 1982 from Auburn University. He is regularly seen at Auburn football games and provides financing to scholarship and development programs for the school.

SUMMARY: The "Plains" host an impressive list of alumni who invest in the educational institute that helped them along the way.