Melinda Gates Steps Down from Shared Foundation with Ex-Husband Bill Gates

Melinda Gates Announces She’s Resigning From Her and Ex-Husband Bill Gates’ Joint Foundation

Melinda Gates. Christian Liewig - Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images

Billionaire Melinda Gates, one of the wealthiest individuals globally, recently announced her resignation from the foundation she co-founded with her ex-husband, Bill Gates.

In a heartfelt Instagram post on May 13, Melinda, 59, shared that after careful consideration, she has decided to step down from her role as co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Her final day at the foundation will be on June 7th.

Melinda expressed that the decision to step down from the nonprofit was not made lightly, as she is very proud of the work she and Bill have done together. She mentioned that she is confident in taking her next career steps, knowing that the organization is in good hands with CEO Mark Suzman and the executive leadership team.

She added, "I feel that now is the right time for me to embark on the next phase of my philanthropic journey. It is a crucial moment for women and girls both in the U.S. and globally, as those striving for equality need urgent support."

Melinda announced her departure from the foundation, sharing that she will have an additional $12.5 billion to dedicate to her next project of supporting women and their families. This amount was agreed upon by Bill as part of her exit.

She mentioned that she will provide more details about her upcoming venture soon.

After Melinda’s announcement, Bill released a statement thanking her for her service over the years and wished her the best in her future endeavors.

Melinda Gates Announces She’s Resigning From Her and Ex-Husband Bill Gates’ Joint Foundation

Melinda, as a cofounder and cochair, has played a key role in developing our plans and projects that have made a big difference in global health and gender equality," said the Microsoft founder on Monday. "I am dedicated to continuing the Foundation's work in all our areas and taking advantage of the chances we have to keep making a positive impact on millions of lives worldwide."

He expressed his regrets to see Melinda go, but he believes she will make a significant difference in her future charitable endeavors.

Melinda and Bill established the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2000, aiming to improve global healthcare and alleviate poverty.

In May 2021, Melinda and Bill announced their plans to divorce after being married for 27 years. Despite the decision to split, they both agreed to continue working together at the foundation.

In a joint statement, the couple expressed, "After a lot of reflection and effort to improve our relationship, we have chosen to end our marriage. Throughout the past 27 years, we have raised three wonderful children and established a foundation that operates globally to help people live healthy, fulfilling lives. We are still dedicated to this mission and will carry on our work together at the foundation. However, we feel that we are unable to grow as a couple in the next chapter of our lives."

Bill and Melinda completed their divorce three months after separating. No financial settlement was reached, and there was no spousal or child support ordered. They have three children: daughters Jennifer, 28, and Phoebe, 21, and son Rory, 24. In February 2023, Jennifer and her husband Nayel Nassar welcomed their first child, making Bill and Melinda grandparents.

Editor's P/S:

Melinda Gates's departure from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation marks a significant chapter in the philanthropic world. Her announcement to dedicate $12.5 billion to support women and their families highlights the importance of investing in women's empowerment. Melinda's passion and commitment to this cause will undoubtedly make a profound impact, particularly in areas where women face systemic barriers and inequality.

The divorce of Melinda and Bill Gates has been widely discussed and scrutinized. While the reasons behind their decision remain private, it is evident that both individuals are committed to continuing the foundation's mission. Bill Gates's statement acknowledges Melinda's contributions and expresses support for her future endeavors. Despite their personal separation, their shared vision for a better world continues to drive their philanthropic work.