2009 Integral Fellows Forum

Over 150 Microsoft alumni have started and run non-profit organizations with the dream of using what they learned at Microsoft to make a difference in the world. These alumni are working on causes from breast cancer research to the preservation of indigenous cultures, from empowering farming communities in coffee-producing regions, to protecting wildlife and targeted wildlands in North America.

Out of the incredible work being done by Microsoft alumni around the globe, sixty-five were nominated and six finalists have been chosen for having created something extraordinary, often with limited resources, while embodying the values of the Microsoft Alumni Foundation.

An esteemed panel of judges - President Jimmy Carter, Bill Gates, Sr., Bill Drayton, Pierre Omidyar and Tom Tierney - took on the difficult task of selecting the individuals who achieved incredible things using the entrepreneurial spirit honed while at Microsoft. On November 18, at the Microsoft Alumni Foundation Founder's Gala, Bill and Melinda Gates awarded the first Integral Fellow Award to three individuals who will receive $25,000 as well as dedicated support from the Microsoft Alumni Foundation.

Watch the Fellows Forum

2009 Finalists

• Patrick Awuah, Ashesi University
• Peter Bladin, Grameen Technology Center
• Linda English, Learning for International NGOs (LINGOs)
• Tom Ikeda, Densho: The Japanese American Legacy Project
• Trish Millines Dziko, Technology Access Foundation
• John Wood, Room to Read

Agenda