Why He Was Nominated

“We’re specialty-owned, and that’s unique because most big practices are owned by big corporations,” says Dr. Whitesman. He’s an orthodontist and his partner, Dr. Scott Goldman, is a pediatric dentist. The duo have 19 offices, all within 60 miles of greater Chicago.

Inspiration

His uncle, a successful entrepreneur who made it big as a car wholesaler. “He’s a genius businessman,” Dr. Whitesman exults.

Something People Don't Know

“I’m a college dropout,” says Dr. Whitesman, who did three years as an undergrad at the University of Michigan before withdrawing and starting dental school early. Long before college, Dr. Whitesman was fascinated by outer space, and he considered becoming an astronaut.