#empowHER50 – Tameka McNair

Access isn’t just about opening doors—it’s about making sure everyone has a pathway to walk through them.  

Tameka McNair is on a mission to turn opportunity into action, ensuring that talent from all backgrounds has the support, mentorship, and resources to thrive. She knows that representation in technology isn’t just about who gets a seat at the table—it’s about who has the opportunity to pull up a chair. From being the only woman in her engineering classes to leading DEI and tech-driven initiatives at Microsoft, she has made it her mission to open doors for others. 

“True impact is measured by the doors we open for others. When we create access, we don’t just change individual lives—we transform industries and entire communities.” — Tameka McNair 

At Microsoft, Tameka led the AI-enabled HR initiative, using artificial intelligence to enhance workplace inclusivity, ensuring fair and transparent decision-making. As Vice-Chair of the Microsoft Alumni Network Board, she has strengthened engagement, providing career resources and mentorship to both current employees and alumni. 

A passionate mentor and advocate, Tameka has guided adults and youth in underserved communities toward STEM careers, proving that no dream is too big to pursue. She also co-founded the Women in Energy Conference, an industry-leading event with 93% participation rates, designed to elevate women in a traditionally male-dominated field. By integrating tech-focused sessions, she has bridged the gap between energy and technology, expanding opportunities for women across industries. 

Tameka’s success is driven by three key strategies: mentoring underserved communities by helping individuals navigate and access opportunities in STEM, leveraging technology for inclusivity by using AI to create fair and transparent workplaces and creating professional development platforms through networks like Women in Energy and the Microsoft Alumni Network to foster career growth. By focusing on these pillars, she is breaking down barriers and shaping industries where everyone has the chance to succeed. 

Tameka’s work isn’t just about individual success—it’s about reshaping industries and making technology more inclusive for all. By investing in people, fostering mentorship, and driving change through innovation, she is creating a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 

About #empowHER50 campaign

This campaign celebrates women leaders at Microsoft, past and present, who have been instrumental in democratizing access to technology, opportunity, and growth. By honoring their contributions over the last half-century, this campaign highlights stories of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity. Through digital spotlights, a commemorative coffee table book, live recognition events, and more, the campaign inspires collective action toward achieving equitable societal goals. To learn more about empowHER50, please visit https://womenincloud.com/empowHER50 

To learn about Microsoft 50th celebrations: https://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-50/  

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#empowHER50 – Karen E Simpson

Karen E. Simpson has dedicated her career to amplifying voices, fostering inclusive cultures, and ensuring women have the confidence and support to thrive.

Karen’s inspiration comes from her grandmother, who broke barriers at GE and reshaped policies to empower women. Taking up this legacy, Karen initiated a movement at Microsoft—forming a pact among women to amplify each other’s contributions in meetings. Within months, the culture began to shift, fostering greater recognition and visibility for women across the organization.

She expanded her efforts by co-founding a women’s network, connecting over 100 women in leadership discussions, career development, and peer mentorship. This initiative led to more women stepping into leadership roles and created a culture of empowerment and collaboration.

Her influence reached across team boundaries when she became a trainer in Microsoft’s DevDiv team’s Allyship program, educating thousands on privilege, inclusion, and how to be effective allies. Through mentorship, she has guided countless individuals—both men and women—on career growth, leadership, and fostering diverse team dynamics.

“Every woman travels the road improved by those who came before her. I’ve embraced a personal obligation to tear down barriers by bringing women together for their voices to be heard and empowering them with the confidence to reach and achieve higher.” — Karen E. Simpson

Today, Karen continues her mission as the founder of a female managers’ circle, a team community where women support each other in leadership. Through every initiative, conversation, and act of advocacy, she proves that when women stand together, they create lasting impact. By breaking barriers and ensuring women’s voices are heard, she is shaping a future where progress is sustained for generations to come.

About #empowHER50 campaign

This campaign celebrates women leaders at Microsoft, past and present, who have been instrumental in democratizing access to technology, opportunity, and growth. By honoring their contributions over the last half-century, this campaign highlights stories of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity. Through digital spotlights, a commemorative coffee table book, live recognition events, and more, the campaign inspires collective action toward achieving equitable societal goals. To learn more about empowHER50, please visit https://womenincloud.com/empowHER50To learn about Microsoft 50th celebrations: https://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-50/

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#empowHER50 – Heather Deggans

Access to technology should not be a privilege—it should be a pathway to opportunity.  

Heather Deggans has dedicated her career to making technology more accessible, helping Microsoft partners and customers harness its power to drive impact, efficiency, and growth. 

Heather developed a full-funnel marketing approach, creating a repeatable, data-driven model that enables Microsoft partners to market, sell, and deliver the value of Microsoft Cloud solutions. She has also led workshops on Microsoft Teams, demonstrating how technology fosters collaboration, accelerates decision-making, and democratizes access to information. 

Beyond marketing innovation, Heather has strengthened the Americas partner ecosystem, scaling partner reach and optimizing operations. She launched a roundtable series to turn partner insights into action, improving enablement and efficiency while reinforcing Microsoft’s leadership in the industry. 

Heather’s passion extends to cultural transformation and career development. She spearheaded the Brené Brown Empathy in Action program and Dare to Lead course, equipping leaders with skills to foster psychological safety. She also mentors professionals inside and outside Microsoft and champions diversity and inclusion through initiatives like the Annual Better Together Women’s Leadership Summit, celebrating women in leadership and fostering allyship. 

“Technology should be available to all to help every person on the planet to achieve more.” — Heather Deggans 

Heather’s leadership is built on three key strategies: expanding opportunities within and beyond Microsoft, mobilizing funding to promote access and equity, and strengthening Microsoft’s standing as a leading employer through inclusive leadership programs. 

Through collaboration, innovation, and advocacy, Heather is paving the way for a more inclusive and accessible future in technology. 

About #empowHER50 campaign:

This campaign celebrates women leaders at Microsoft, past and present, who have been instrumental in democratizing access to technology, opportunity, and growth. By honoring their contributions over the last half-century, this campaign highlights stories of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity. Through digital spotlights, a commemorative coffee table book, live recognition events, and more, the campaign inspires collective action toward achieving equitable societal goals. To learn more about empowHER50, please visit https://womenincloud.com/empowHER50 

To learn about Microsoft 50th celebrations: https://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-50/  

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#empowHER50 – Stefani Quarles

True empowerment begins with access—when barriers are removed, possibilities expand, and people can shape their own futures. 

Stefani Quarles has dedicated her career to breaking down barriers, and ensuring that information, resources, and opportunities are accessible to all. 

At Microsoft, Stefani has championed AI Innovation Challenges in partnership with Women in Cloud and other nonprofits, helping entrepreneurs and changemakers leverage AI to drive impact. Her work has provided mentorship, tools, and connections to help underrepresented communities scale their solutions. 

She has also played a key role in DigiGirlz and STEAM initiatives, inspiring young women and diverse talent to explore careers in technology. By expanding access to learning, mentorship, and hands-on experience, Stefani is shaping the next generation of innovators. 

Beyond these programs, her leadership in Customer Success and Azure Go-to-Market transformations has focused on removing barriers and simplifying complex processes, ensuring customers, partners, and teams can thrive. 

“Access isn’t just about technology—it’s about opening doors, breaking barriers, and equipping people with the tools to create their own opportunities.” — Stefani Quarles 

Stefani sees this campaign as an opportunity to drive meaningful impact by amplifying voices, improving access to resources, and strengthening pathways for growth. Through collaboration and connection, she is committed to creating a more inclusive and empowered tech ecosystem. 

About #empowHER50 campaign:

This campaign celebrates women leaders at Microsoft, past and present, who have been instrumental in democratizing access to technology, opportunity, and growth. By honoring their contributions over the last half-century, this campaign highlights stories of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity. Through digital spotlights, a commemorative coffee table book, live recognition events, and more, the campaign inspires collective action toward achieving equitable societal goals. To learn more about empowHER50, please visit https://womenincloud.com/empowHER50 

To learn about Microsoft 50th celebrations: https://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-50/  

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#empowHER50 – Yanna Andronopoulou

Technology is reshaping our world, and ensuring women have equal opportunities isn’t just progress—it’s transformative.  

Yanna Andronopoulou is at the forefront of this change, pioneering initiatives that empower women to lead in tech. As the leader of Microsoft South East Europe Women Employee Resource Group (ERG), she launched with her team the Women’s AI Hackathon across nine countries, inspiring 900 applicants and equipping 100 women with AI skills to shape the future. 

Her commitment to digital inclusion expands into skilling. Through AI School 360, she ensured 50% female participation in Greece’s largest AI skills program. She forged partnerships with the Athens Chamber of Commerce to upskill women over 45 and collaborated with I4U to empower 4,000 women with digital skills, opening doors to new career opportunities. 

“Together, we can ignite change and shape a future where women not only thrive but lead in technology. Be bold, be innovative, and let your voice be heard to unlock opportunities for all in the era of AI.” — Yanna Andronopoulou 

A global advocate, Yanna’s voice resonates on international stages, including the Women Political Leaders (WPL) Summit 2024, where she championed gender equality in tech. She mentors the next generation of female leaders, ensuring the pipeline of talent remains strong. Her relentless efforts have earned Microsoft Greece the Inclusivity Award and garnered her recognition from WhoisWho International. 
 
About #empowHER50 campaign

This campaign celebrates women leaders at Microsoft, past and present, who have been instrumental in democratizing access to technology, opportunity, and growth. By honoring their contributions over the last half-century, this campaign highlights stories of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity. Through digital spotlights, a commemorative coffee table book, live recognition events, and more, the campaign inspires collective action toward achieving equitable societal goals. To learn more about empowHER50, please visit https://womenincloud.com/empowHER50 

To learn about Microsoft 50th celebrations: https://news.microsoft.com/microsoft-50/  

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