Melinda French Gates, one of the world’s most influential philanthropists and ex-wife of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, announced Monday that she is resigning from the foundation she and her husband founded.
In an article on started in 2000. She said she would walk away with $12.5 billion to “commit to my work for women and families” and that her last day would be June 7.
The foundation is recognized as one of the most powerful global philanthropies, particularly in areas such as global health and early childhood education, and has made great strides in reducing deaths caused by malaria and other infectious diseases. As one of the largest donors to the World Health Organization, it exerts considerable influence on the policies of developing countries, particularly in health and education.
Mr. and Mrs. Gates announced their considering divorce in May 2021, after 27 years of marriage. The foundation said at the time that it would remain co-chair of the organization.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
