Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

2021 DEI Progress Report We have been working to advance DEI in many ways for years. But in 2019, we began to pursue a more intentional approach and a more ambitious agenda. We made DEI a top foundation priority and hired Leslie Mays, who now sits on the Executive Leadership Team as our chief DEI officer. Our inaugural progress report—which incorporates data and insights from our employees and partners—documents how we’re doing so far and serves as the first step toward holding ourselves accountable for achieving the measurable results we have committed to.

It is with deep sadness that our ‘north star,’ Bill Gates Sr., passed away on Monday, September 14 at home surrounded by family. It is no overstatement to say that without Bill Sr. there would be no Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation as we know it today. His belief that all lives have equal value inspired our mission, and will remain at the heart of everything we do to the last. His legacy is profound. Bill Sr. was an extraordinary leader in the global fight against inequity, and a tireless advocate for the foundation and our issues. His impact was also felt across Seattle and the Pacific Northwest through his involvement in so many notable organizations. By every measure, Bill Sr. embodied what it means to show up for life. His generosity, humility, intelligence, and humor were just a few qualities of a great man. He was also a great friend, colleague, and mentor to many. Even as our organization grew, Bill Sr.’s values and pragmatism were a reminder that this is very much a family foundation. Our ‘north star’ will be dearly missed. - Shared by Mark Suzman, our CEO