Early Life and Education of Melinda French Gates: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Melinda French Gates, highlighting the experiences that shaped 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

August 15, 1964: Melinda Ann French Born

On August 15, 1964, Melinda Ann French, later known as Melinda French Gates, was born in Dallas, Texas.

Others born on this day/year

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.

1987: Met Bill Gates

In 1987, Melinda French met Bill Gates, then CEO of Microsoft, at a trade fair in New York, and they started dating.

1994: Marriage to Bill Gates

In 1994, Melinda French married Bill Gates in a private ceremony held in Lanai, Hawaii.

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.

2007: Honorary Doctorate in Medicine

In 2007, Melinda French Gates received an honorary doctorate in medicine from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden.

2009: Honorary Degrees from University of Cambridge

In 2009, Melinda French Gates and her then-husband Bill Gates received honorary degrees from the University of Cambridge.

2013: Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Duke University

In 2013, Melinda French Gates was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters by Duke University, recognizing her philanthropic commitment.

August 2, 2021: Divorce Finalized

On August 2, 2021, the divorce between Melinda French Gates and Bill Gates was finalized. Since the couple separated, Melinda has used the name Melinda French Gates.