Throughout his career, Ted Turner has won recognition for his entrepreneurial acumen, sharp business skills, vision that transformed television, leadership qualities that won sports championships, and unprecedented philanthropy. Turner began his career as an account executive with Turner Advertising Company and entered the television business in 1970 when he acquired Atlanta independent station channel 17. In 1980, Turner launched CNN, the world’s first live, 24-hour global news network. Turner has also made his mark as one of the most influential philanthropists in the U.S. In September 1997, Turner announced his historic pledge of up to $1 billion to United Nations causes through the creation of the United Nations Foundation (UNF). The organization supports the goals and objectives of the United Nations to promote a more peaceful, prosperous and just world. UNF has identified four core priorities: women and population; children’s health; the environment; and peace and security.