True innovation isn’t just about advancing technology—it’s about ensuring no one is left behind.
Jenny Lay-Flurrie, Microsoft’s Chief Accessibility Officer, has spent her career proving that accessibility isn’t just an initiative; it’s a movement that empowers 1.3 billion people with disabilities worldwide.
Jenny’s leadership has transformed accessibility at Microsoft from a side project to a company-wide mission. Under her guidance, groundbreaking features like Read Aloud, Immersive Reader, and Windows Captions now support millions, while adaptive hardware like the Xbox Adaptive Controller redefines who can play. She pioneered the Neurodiversity Hiring Program, removing barriers so that talent can shine. And through the annual Ability Summit, which grew from 20 people to over 20,000, she’s fostering a global conversation about inclusive technology.
“Accessibility makes technology easier—for everyone.” — Jenny Lay-Flurrie
What started in 1995 with Microsoft’s first accessibility features has now become a cornerstone of its legacy. Jenny’s work proves that accessibility isn’t about accommodation—it’s about innovation. By embedding inclusion into every product and process, she’s not just shaping technology. She’s shaping a future where everyone has the tools 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/
