French Gates’ departure from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation comes after a tumultuous few years for the couple, including their high-profile divorce in 2021. Despite the challenges they faced in their personal lives, the foundation continued its work addressing inequities around the world. French Gates expressed pride in the foundation’s accomplishments and spoke of her commitment to furthering social progress for women and families through her organization, Pivotal Ventures.
As part of her agreement with Bill Gates to leave the foundation, French Gates will have an additional $12.5 billion to use in her work on behalf of women and families. This funding will not come from the foundation trust but is the result of a personal agreement between the former couple. The Gates Foundation, which will now be known as the Gates Foundation after French Gates’ departure, will continue its work under Bill Gates’ leadership as the sole chair.
Bill Gates expressed gratitude for French Gates’ contributions to the foundation, noting her impact on global health and gender equality initiatives. While French Gates will no longer be involved in the foundation’s day-to-day operations, Bill Gates reaffirmed his commitment to its work across all strategies. French Gates’ departure marks the end of an era for the foundation, which has been a leader in philanthropy for the past two decades.
French Gates’ net worth is estimated to be around $11.3 billion, making her one of the wealthiest individuals in the world. Despite the challenges she has faced in her personal life, French Gates remains dedicated to her work advancing social progress for women and families. The $12.5 billion she will have access to through Pivotal Ventures will allow her to continue making a difference in the lives of those most in need.
The Gates Foundation’s decision to change its name to the Gates Foundation after French Gates’ departure reflects a desire to honor both Bill Sr.’s legacy and Melinda’s contributions to the organization. The foundation will continue its work addressing global health issues, gender equality, and global policy under Bill Gates’ leadership as the sole chair. French Gates’ departure marks a new chapter for the foundation, but its mission of improving the lives of those in need remains unchanged.
Despite the challenges they have faced in recent years, both Bill and Melinda Gates remain committed to their philanthropic work. The foundation will continue to address inequities around the world, with a focus on gender equality, global health, and global policy. French Gates’ departure marks a significant moment for the organization, but its impact on the lives of those it serves will continue to be felt for years to come.
