Melinda French Gates's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Melinda French Gates. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

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

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.

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.

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.

2011: Forbes Ranking

In 2011, Melinda French Gates was ranked #6 in Forbes' list of the 100 Most Powerful Women.

2012: Forbes Ranking

In 2012, Melinda French Gates was ranked #4 in Forbes' list of the 100 Most Powerful Women.

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.

2013: Recognized by Forbes

In 2013, Melinda French Gates was ranked #3 in Forbes' list of the 100 Most Powerful Women.

2014: Forbes Ranking

In 2014, Melinda French Gates was ranked #3 in Forbes' list of the 100 Most Powerful Women.

2015: Forbes Ranking

In 2015, Melinda French Gates was ranked #3 in Forbes' list of the 100 Most Powerful Women.

2016: Forbes Ranking

In 2016, Melinda French Gates was ranked #4 in Forbes' list of the 100 Most Powerful Women.

2017: Forbes Ranking

In 2017, Melinda French Gates was ranked #3 in Forbes' list of the 100 Most Powerful Women.

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.