Susan Hirt Hagen Net Worth

What was Susan Hirt Hagen's Net Worth?

Susan Hirt Hagen was an American businesswoman who had a net worth of $2 billion. As the daughter of Erie Insurance co-founder H.O. Hirt, she grew up immersed in the family business and went on to play a major role in guiding its expansion and ensuring its place as a Fortune 500 company. For more than three decades, she served as a director of Erie Indemnity Company, the management arm of Erie Insurance, and her tenure was marked by steady growth, diversification, and financial strength. Beyond her business contributions, Hagen was widely admired for her philanthropic work in Erie, Pennsylvania, where she supported education, the arts, and community development. Through both her leadership and charitable giving, she left a lasting legacy as one of the most influential figures in Erie's business and civic life.

Early Life

Susan Hirt Hagen was born into one of Erie, Pennsylvania's most prominent families. Her father, H.O. Hirt, co-founded the Erie Insurance Exchange in 1925, which grew into a major regional insurer. Susan pursued her education at Vassar College, earning a bachelor's degree, and later studied at Pennsylvania State University. From an early age she developed an interest in both education and business, preparing her for a life of leadership in her family's company and her community.

Career at Erie Insurance

Hagen joined the board of Erie Indemnity Company in 1980, representing the second generation of the Hirt family in company leadership. She served for 33 years, making her one of the longest-tenured directors in the insurer's history. Erie Insurance expanded dramatically during her time on the board, growing into a Fortune 500 company with billions in annual revenue and a presence across multiple states. Her steady governance and deep commitment to the company's founding principles helped solidify Erie's reputation for financial strength and customer service. She retired from the board in 2013 but remained a key shareholder and trusted voice in company affairs.

Philanthropy and Community Leadership

Outside of Erie Insurance, Hagen was best known for her philanthropy. She supported numerous institutions in Erie, particularly in the areas of education, health, and culture. She was a trustee of the Hagen Family Foundation, which has donated millions of dollars to local causes. She also played a central role in establishing and supporting the Susan Hirt Hagen Center for Community Outreach, Research, and Evaluation (C.O.R.E.) at Penn State Behrend, which focuses on improving outcomes for children and families. Hagen was deeply involved in Vassar College as well, serving as a trustee and supporting educational programs. Her generosity and vision made her one of Erie's leading benefactors.

Personal Life and Legacy

Hagen was married to Thomas B. Hagen, who also became a prominent figure at Erie Insurance and served as Pennsylvania's Secretary of Commerce and Secretary of Community and Economic Development. Together, the couple were recognized as pillars of the Erie community, both for their business leadership and their civic contributions. Susan Hirt Hagen passed away in 2015 at the age of 79. She was remembered not only as a steward of her family's business legacy but also as a dedicated philanthropist who helped shape the future of her hometown. Her impact on Erie Insurance and on generations of local residents continues to be felt through the institutions and causes she championed.

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