Melinda French Gates Resigns from Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Melinda French Gates, the former wife of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, has announced that she will step down as co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation next month. The announcement comes after the couple’s divorce in May 2021.
Gates stated that she made this decision after careful consideration and reflection. She expressed immense pride in the foundation they built together and the work it continues to do in addressing global inequities. However, she believes it is the right time for her to move into a new chapter of her philanthropy.
Gates will have an additional $12.5 billion to commit to her work on behalf of women and families following her resignation. She plans to share more details about her future philanthropic endeavors soon.
Bill Gates expressed support for his ex-wife’s decision, stating that he believes she will make a significant impact through her future philanthropic work. The foundation’s CEO, Mark Suzman, also expressed admiration for Gates and noted that her departure would be a great loss.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is one of the largest philanthropic foundations in the world, known for its work in global health, education, and development. With Gates’ departure, MacKenzie Scott, the former wife of Amazon co-founder Jeff Bezos, joins her in completely separating her philanthropic ventures from her ex-husband’s.
Gates’ resignation marks a significant moment in the philanthropic landscape, as she embarks on her own path to advance the causes she is passionate about. Her future work is highly anticipated, and it is expected to have a profound impact on women and families worldwide.
