Laurene Powell Jobs: Biography, Career, and Philanthropy
Laurene Powell Jobs is an American billionaire businesswoman, investor, and philanthropist best known as the widow of Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc. She is the founder and president of Emerson Collective, an organization dedicated to education, immigration reform, social justice, media, and environmental conservation. Laurene is one of the most influential women in the world, recognized for using her wealth and influence to drive positive social change.
Early Life and Education
Laurene Powell Jobs was born on November 6, 1963, in West Milford, New Jersey, USA. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, and later obtained an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business, where she met her future husband, Steve Jobs, in 1989.
Business and Career Initiatives
Laurene worked at Goldman Sachs before starting Emerson Collective in 2004. She also co-founded Terravera, a natural food company that focuses on sustainable agriculture. She founded Emerson Collective, which invests in and supports projects that advance equity and opportunity, as a result of her commercial background and her enthusiasm for social impact.
Additionally, Laurene owns a sizable stake in The Atlantic, a prestigious American publication that Emerson Collective purchased in 2017. She has also made investments in educational institutions like College Track, which assists disadvantaged kids in getting ready for and completing college.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Laurene Powell Jobs is deeply committed to education reform, environmental sustainability, and social justice. Through Emerson Collective, she has funded programs that tackle issues like immigration rights, renewable energy, and criminal justice reform. Her philanthropic work reflects her belief that innovation and compassion can create lasting societal change.
She is also involved in the XQ Institute, an initiative that aims to transform the American high school education system by promoting creativity, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving.
Personal Life
Laurene married Steve Jobs in 1991, and they remained together until his passing in 2011. They have three children together, including Eve Jobs, who is now a model and equestrian athlete. Despite her immense wealth, Laurene is known for maintaining a low profile and focusing her efforts on causes that make a difference.
Recognition and Net Worth
Laurene Powell Jobs is one of the richest women in the world, with an estimated net worth of over $14 billion as of 2025. Her contributions to social innovation, education, and the environment have earned her a spot on Forbes’ lists of Top Philanthropists and Most Powerful Women.