Murray H. Dashe '69
Chief Executive Officer
Cost Plus World Markets, Inc.
Los Angeles, CA
Major: Economics
Married to Robin and has two daughters, Summer and Courtney, and one son, Brett.

No one would have guessed that Murray's road to success as a business entrepreneur would begin at the old Pomeroy's department store on Sixth and Penn Streets in Reading where he worked part-time while attending Albright. But today, he heads Cost Plus World Markets, Inc., a chain that combines unique and exotic furniture from around the globe with gourmet food and a selection of fine wine and microbrew beers. Cost Plus has numerous locations across the country including California, Texas, St. Louis and Chicago, to name a few.

The chain, which has been growing more than 20 percent a year for several years, caters to those who want the exotic look at an affordable price. Products from more than 50 countries fill the stores. "It appeals to a casual lifestyle," he says. "Americans are living less formally, both at work and at home."