Jean Case

Jean Case is an American philanthropist, investor, and author who serves as the chairman of the National Geographic Society and the CEO of the Case Foundation, which she co-founded with her husband, Steve Case. A prominent advocate for inclusive entrepreneurship and impact investing, she has held executive roles at America Online and played a significant part in its merger with Time Warner. Her work focuses on leveraging philanthropy, technology, and business to address societal challenges.

Early life and education

Jean Marie Gaffney was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and was raised in a working-class family. She attended local public schools before enrolling at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing. Her early career began in the private sector, working in sales and marketing roles for technology firms, which provided a foundation for her future endeavors in the Silicon Valley and Washington, D.C. ecosystems.

Career

Jean Case's professional trajectory accelerated when she joined America Online in the early 1990s, serving in key marketing and executive positions. She played an instrumental role during the company's period of explosive growth and its historic merger with Time Warner, one of the largest corporate combinations in history. Following the merger, she transitioned into philanthropy and impact investing, co-founding the Case Foundation with her husband. She also serves as chairman of the board of the National Geographic Society, guiding its mission in exploration, education, and conservation. Her investment philosophy is detailed in her book, Be Fearless: 5 Principles for a Life of Breakthroughs and Purpose, which advocates for entrepreneurial risk-taking.

Philanthropy and advocacy

Through the Case Foundation, Jean Case has championed initiatives in impact investing, civic engagement, and entrepreneurship. She is a leading voice for expanding access to capital for underrepresented founders, supporting organizations like Black Girl Ventures and the Rise of the Rest seed fund. A central focus has been the "Be Fearless" campaign, which encourages individuals and institutions to embrace risk and experimentation in solving problems. She also serves on the board of the White House Historical Association and has been involved with the Smithsonian Institution's American Women's History Initiative. Her advocacy extends to conservation efforts through her leadership at the National Geographic Society.

Personal life

Jean Case married Steve Case, co-founder of America Online, in 1998. The couple resides in McLean, Virginia, and has a blended family of five children. She is known for her commitment to Catholicism and integrates her faith into her philanthropic outlook. An avid adventurer, she has participated in expeditions with the National Geographic Society, including travels to Antarctica and the Amazon rainforest.

Awards and recognition

Jean Case has received numerous accolades for her philanthropic leadership and advocacy. She was appointed to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and has been recognized among Forbes' "50 Over 50" list of influential women. She has also been honored with the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy and the James C. Morgan Global Humanitarian Award. In 2023, the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee awarded her an honorary doctorate for her contributions to society.

Category:American philanthropists Category:American technology company executives Category:1959 births Category:Living people