Childhood and Education Journey of Sam Altman in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Sam Altman, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Sam Altman is an American entrepreneur, investor, and the current CEO of OpenAI since 2019. He is a prominent figure in the field of artificial intelligence, particularly known for leading one of the most influential AI research and deployment companies. His leadership at OpenAI has placed him at the forefront of the AI boom, shaping discussions and developments in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI technology.

Sections (4)

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

April 22, 1985: Sam Altman Born

On April 22, 1985, Samuel Harris Altman was born. He is an American entrepreneur, investor, and the CEO of OpenAI.

Others born on this day/year

2005: Altman Drops Out of Stanford

In 2005, after studying computer science for two years at Stanford University, Sam Altman dropped out without completing his bachelor's degree.

2012: Breakup with Nick Sivo

In 2012, Sam Altman ended his nine-year relationship with Nick Sivo, co-founder of Loopt, shortly after Loopt was acquired.

2016: Describes apocalypse preparedness

In 2016, Sam Altman described his preparations for a potential apocalypse, including owning guns, gold, potassium iodide, antibiotics, batteries, water, gas masks, and land in Big Sur.

2018: Altman Announces The United Slate

In 2018, Sam Altman announced "the United Slate", a political project focused on improving U.S. housing and healthcare policy.

2019: Altman Holds Fundraiser for Andrew Yang

In 2019, Sam Altman hosted a fundraiser at his home in San Francisco for Andrew Yang, who was a 2020 Democratic presidential candidate.

May 2020: Altman Donates to American Bridge 21st Century

In May 2020, Sam Altman donated $250,000 to American Bridge 21st Century, a super PAC supporting Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden.

2023: Altman Supports Dean Phillips' Presidential Challenge

In 2023, Sam Altman was involved in supporting Representative Dean Phillips as he prepared to challenge President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination.

January 2024: Marriage to Oliver Mulherin

In January 2024, Sam Altman married engineer Oliver Mulherin at their estate in Hawaii.

May 2024: Signed the Giving Pledge

In May 2024, Sam Altman and his spouse, Oliver Mulherin, committed to donating the majority of their wealth by signing the Giving Pledge.

November 18, 2024: Altman Named to Lurie Transition Team

On November 18, 2024, San Francisco Mayor-Elect Daniel Lurie appointed Sam Altman to his transition team.

December 2024: Altman Reportedly to Donate to Trump's Inaugural Fund

In December 2024, it was reported that Sam Altman would donate $1 million to the Inaugural Fund for President Donald Trump.

February 22, 2025: Birth of son announced

On February 22, 2025, Sam Altman announced the birth of his son.

March 20, 2025: Altman Hosts Fundraiser for Senator Mark Warner

On March 20, 2025, Sam Altman hosted a fundraiser in San Francisco for Senator Mark Warner, a Democrat running for re-election in Virginia in 2026.

July 4, 2025: Altman Shares Political Ideology

On July 4, 2025, Sam Altman shared on X (formerly Twitter) his belief in "techno-capitalism" and expressed feeling "politically homeless", criticizing the Democratic Party for not encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship.