When access is powered by empathy, innovation becomes a force for healing.
When Cloe Zeng asked her parents to invest their life savings in a dream—a master’s degree in Management Information Systems in the UK—they didn’t hesitate. What followed was more than an academic milestone; it was the start of a global journey powered by courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of access.
That spark has since lit the way for millions.
At Microsoft, Cloe became a force in global innovation. She played a pivotal role in the launch of Microsoft Surface and Xbox, scaling them into multi-billion-dollar businesses that touched over 500 million lives. Yet her leadership extended far beyond products—it shaped communities. As a mentor to more than 1,000 people managers, she built inclusive cultures grounded in curiosity, shared growth, and the belief that being first means bringing others along.
Cloe’s mission has always been clear: democratize opportunity at scale.
Now at the Gottman Institute, she is bridging technology and emotional intelligence, using AI to make relationship health tools universally accessible—from personal to professional teamwork. Her impact echoes globally. As the first Asian American President of the Issaquah Schools Foundation, she expanded academic access for 19,000 students and 1,200 educators. And through the “Kids Helping Kids” international peace initiative in Ukraine, she has empowered displaced youth to build futures in STEM—even amid conflict.
Whether launching market-defining innovations or designing education programs for war-affected children, Cloe operates from a singular truth: kindness and technology are not opposites—they are complements. Together, they build a world where opportunity is not hoarded, but shared.
Through every chapter, she has shown what’s possible when women lead boldly and bring others with them. Her work isn’t just legacy—it’s blueprint.
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/
