On October 10, Smith Soc Houston will host  Houston’s own John Arnold. At just 38 years old,  Arnold announced his retirement from the finance world and is now heavily involved in local and national philanthropy, along with his wife, Laura, through the Laura and John Arnold Foundation. John previously worked at Enron, where he became one of the most successful energy traders in the industry. He then founded Centaurus Advisors, a Houston-based hedge fund that specialized in trading energy products. His philanthropic interests include pension reform, criminal justice reform, and the study of dietary guidelines and drug costs. Mr. Arnold will join us for a wide ranging conversation on energy policy and philanthropy. 

About the Speaker

John Arnold is the Co-Chair of the Laura and John Arnold Foundation (LJAF) along with his wife, Laura.  LJAF’s core objective is to produce substantial, widespread and lasting reforms that will maximize opportunities and minimize injustice in our society.  LJAF’s current areas of focus include criminal justice, public accountability initiatives, research integrity and education.

The Arnolds signed The Giving Pledge and have committed to devote the majority of their wealth, time and resources to philanthropy. In addition to their work through LJAF, the couple formed Action Now Initiative, a section 501 (c)(4) entity that advocates for specific public policies. They also make personal charitable donations to a wide variety of organizations and progressive causes.

Until 2012, Mr. Arnold was founder and CEO of Centaurus Energy, a hedge fund primarily focused on trading energy commodities. Prior to founding Centaurus, he held various positions within Enron’s Wholesale Division, including Head of Natural Gas Derivatives. In May 2012, Mr. Arnold announced his retirement from Centaurus Energy and his intention to wind down the fund. Mr. Arnold holds a B.A. from Vanderbilt University, and he is a member of that university’s Board of Trustees.

Learn more about LJAF’s initiatives here.