Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Melinda French Gates

How Melinda French Gates built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Melinda French Gates is an American philanthropist. She obtained a degree in computer science and economics, as well as an MBA, from Duke University. She joined Microsoft in 1987 as a multimedia product developer where she met and eventually married Bill Gates. Together, they have three children.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1987: MBA from Duke's Fuqua School of Business

In 1987, Melinda French Gates received her MBA from Duke's Fuqua School of Business after earning a bachelor's degree in computer science and economics from Duke University in 1986.

1996: Joined Duke University's Board of Trustees

In 1996, Melinda French Gates became a member of Duke University's board of trustees, a position she held until 2003.

1996: Left Microsoft

In 1996, Melinda French Gates left her position at Microsoft as General Manager of Information Products, reportedly to focus on starting a family.

2003: End of Tenure on Duke University Board

In 2003, Melinda French Gates concluded her service as a member of Duke University's board of trustees, a position she had held since 1996.

2004: Joined Graham Holdings Board

In 2004, Melinda French Gates took a seat on the board of directors of Graham Holdings (formerly The Washington Post Company).

December 2005: Named Time's Persons of the Year

In December 2005, Melinda and Bill Gates were named Persons of the Year by Time magazine, alongside Bono, in recognition of their philanthropic efforts.

May 4, 2006: Received Prince of Asturias Award

On May 4, 2006, Melinda and Bill Gates were awarded the Spanish Prince of Asturias Award for International Cooperation in recognition of their global impact through charitable giving.

May 2006: Seattle Children's Hospital Dedication

In May 2006, the Melinda French Gates Ambulatory Care building at Seattle Children's Hospital was dedicated in honor of her work to improve the lives of children.

August 2006: Left Drugstore.com Board

In August 2006, Melinda French Gates left the board of directors at Drugstore.com to focus on her philanthropic projects.

November 2006: Awarded the Insignia of the Order of the Aztec Eagle

In November 2006, Melinda French Gates, along with Bill Gates, was awarded the Insignia of the Order of the Aztec Eagle for their philanthropic work, particularly in Mexico's health and education programs.

2017: Awarded France's Legion of Honour

In 2017, President François Hollande awarded France's highest national honor, as Commander of the Legion of Honour, to Melinda French Gates for her charitable efforts.

May 13, 2024: Resignation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

On May 13, 2024, Melinda French Gates announced her resignation as co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, effective June 7. The foundation was subsequently renamed the Gates Foundation.

June 2024: Commencement address at Stanford University

In June 2024, Melinda French Gates delivered the Commencement address at Stanford University.

2024: Donations to Democratic causes

In 2024, Melinda French Gates donated over $10 million to Democratic causes, with a focus on abortion rights.

2024: Resigned as co-chair of the Gates Foundation

In 2024, Melinda French Gates resigned as co-chair of the Gates Foundation and received $12.5 billion for independent charitable work focused on women and families. She endorsed Kamala Harris in the 2024 US presidential election.

2024: Announced Action for Women's Health

In 2024, Melinda French Gates, in partnership with Lever for Change, announced Action for Women’s Health, a grant competition providing $250 million to fund women's health initiatives.