Henry Taub, American businessman and philanthropist (b. 1927)

Henry Taub, a prominent American businessman and dedicated philanthropist of Hungarian-Jewish descent, left an indelible mark on both the financial services industry and the advancement of science and technology. Born on September 20, 1927, he would go on to co-found what became Automatic Data Processing (ADP), a giant in payroll and benefits management, before dedicating much of his later life to supporting academic excellence in Israel.

Early Life and Educational Foundations

Taub’s formative years were spent in Paterson, New Jersey, where he attended Eastside High School. His intellectual curiosity led him to New York University (NYU), a pivotal institution in his early academic journey. He graduated from NYU in 1947, armed with a degree in accounting, a foundational skill that would soon prove instrumental in shaping his entrepreneurial future.

A Visionary Entrepreneur: Founding ADP

In 1949, with a keen eye for efficiency and a commitment to helping businesses manage their finances, Henry Taub established Automatic Payrolls Inc. (API). Initially, API offered manual payroll processing services to companies in Northern New Jersey, a time-consuming but essential task for any employer. Taub’s vision, however, extended beyond manual ledger entries. Recognizing the burgeoning potential of automation, he steered his company through an evolution that saw it embrace computerized services. API ultimately transformed into Automatic Data Processing (ADP), which today stands as the leading provider of computerized payroll and benefits management services to employers across the United States and beyond. ADP's innovative approach revolutionized how businesses handled their most critical administrative tasks, allowing countless companies to streamline operations and focus on their core missions. Taub's entrepreneurial spirit and foresight were the driving forces behind this monumental shift, laying the groundwork for a company that continues to thrive decades later. He would eventually retire from ADP in the mid-1980s, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and industry leadership.

A Legacy of Philanthropy: The Technion Connection

Beyond his significant achievements in business, Henry Taub was a passionate philanthropist, with a particular and profound commitment to the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology. His dedication to advancing science, technology, and engineering education was evident through his extensive service and generosity. From 1974 to 1976, he served as the national president of the American Technion Society (ATS), an organization vital for supporting the Technion’s mission. His leadership continued as he chaired the Technion International Board of Governors from 1990 to 2003. Even in his later years, at the time of his passing in 2011, Taub held the esteemed title of Honorary Chair of the Technion International Board of Governors, maintaining active membership on the ATS National Board of Directors and the New York Metropolitan Region Board. Together with his beloved wife, Marilyn, Henry Taub spearheaded numerous impactful projects at the Technion. Among their most notable contributions is the Henry and Marilyn Taub and Family Science and Technology Center, a true landmark on the Technion campus and the proud home to its Faculty of Computer Science, widely recognized as one of the best globally. Their generosity also established the Leaders in Science and Technology Faculty Recruitment Program, designed to attract top talent to the institution, and the Henry and Marilyn Taub Fund for the Future, ensuring sustained support for cutting-edge research and education. His unwavering commitment earned him the highest honors from the institution, including the Technion Medal, an honorary doctorate, and an honorary fellowship. In a heartfelt tribute to his lifetime of brilliant and dedicated service, the American Technion Society held a special celebration in 2004 at New York City's iconic Plaza Hotel, commemorating his extraordinary impact.

Later Life and Passing

A long-time resident of Tenafly, New Jersey, Henry Taub continued to inspire through his philanthropic endeavors. He passed away on March 31, 2011, at the age of 83, due to complications of leukemia, leaving behind a profound legacy that continues to benefit countless individuals and institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Henry Taub

Who was Henry Taub?

Henry Taub was an American businessman and philanthropist, best known as the co-founder of Automatic Data Processing (ADP) and a dedicated supporter of the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology.

What company did Henry Taub found?

Henry Taub founded Automatic Payrolls Inc. (API) in 1949, which later evolved into Automatic Data Processing (ADP), a leading provider of payroll and benefits management services.

What was Henry Taub's connection to the Technion?

Henry Taub was a major benefactor and leader within the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology and the American Technion Society. He held various leadership roles, including national president of ATS and chair of the Technion International Board of Governors, and he and his wife, Marilyn, funded significant projects like the Henry and Marilyn Taub and Family Science and Technology Center.

When did Henry Taub pass away?

Henry Taub passed away on March 31, 2011, at the age of 83.

What was ADP originally called?

ADP was originally called Automatic Payrolls Inc. (API) when Henry Taub founded it in 1949.