Deaths on April 6

Anita Borg

Died on April 6, 2003

Anita Borg, American computer scientist and educator; founded Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology (b. 1949)

Anita Borg (January 17, 1949 – April 6, 2003) was a truly visionary American computer scientist whose profound dedication to advocating for women in technology left an indelible mark on the industry. Her pioneering efforts were instrumental in creating platforms and communities that continue to empower and celebrate women in computing worldwide. Borg's work stemmed from a deep understanding of the critical need to increase women's representation, influence, and success in a field predominantly shaped by men.

Her commitment to this cause was manifested in two foundational initiatives that have since grown into global phenomena.

Pioneering the Institute for Women and Technology

One of Anita Borg's most significant achievements was the establishment of the Institute for Women and Technology in 1997. This organization, now famously known as AnitaB.org, was conceived as a vital catalyst for change. Borg envisioned a place where women technologists could connect, collaborate, and thrive, ultimately driving greater innovation and addressing societal challenges through diverse perspectives. The Institute's mission was, and remains, to achieve a future where the people who create technology mirror the people who use it. It focuses on facilitating research, creating programs, and fostering a robust community dedicated to increasing the representation of women in technical roles and leadership positions across the global technology ecosystem.

The Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing

Another monumental contribution was her co-founding of the Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing in 1994, alongside Telle Whitney. Named in honor of the trailblazing American computer scientist Rear Admiral Grace Hopper, this celebration began as a small technical conference and has since blossomed into the world's largest gathering of women technologists. It provides an unparalleled forum for professional development, networking, and inspiration, bringing together tens of thousands of attendees from around the globe. The Grace Hopper Celebration empowers women at all stages of their careers, from students to senior executives, offering opportunities to learn about cutting-edge research, explore career pathways, and celebrate achievements in the field. It stands as a vibrant testament to Borg's belief in the power of community and visibility for underrepresented groups in technology.

Anita Borg's Enduring Legacy

Anita Borg's impact extends far beyond the organizations she founded. Her work laid the groundwork for a more inclusive and equitable technology landscape, advocating for equal opportunity, pay, and leadership for women. She was a tireless advocate for technical excellence and for ensuring that women's voices were heard and valued in the creation of the technologies shaping our world. Even after her passing in 2003, her vision continues to inspire countless individuals and organizations. Prestigious accolades, such as Google's Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship, further solidify her enduring influence, recognizing outstanding women in computer science and engineering who embody her spirit of leadership and innovation. Her legacy is a powerful reminder that diversity drives progress and that dedicated individuals can indeed change the world.

Frequently Asked Questions about Anita Borg

Who was Anita Borg?: Anita Borg was an influential American computer scientist, a visionary advocate for women in technology, and a founder of two seminal organizations dedicated to increasing women's representation and success in the field.
What were Anita Borg's most significant contributions?: Her most significant contributions include founding the Institute for Women and Technology (now AnitaB.org) and co-founding the Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing.
What is the Institute for Women and Technology?: The Institute for Women and Technology, now known as AnitaB.org, is a global non-profit organization dedicated to achieving a future where the people who create technology mirror the people who use it, focusing on women's inclusion, impact, and success in technology.
What is the Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing?: The Grace Hopper Celebration (GHC) is the world's largest gathering of women technologists, providing a vital platform for career development, networking, and celebrating the achievements of women in computing, co-founded by Anita Borg and Telle Whitney.
When did Anita Borg live?: Anita Borg was born on January 17, 1949, and passed away on April 6, 2003.
What is Anita Borg's lasting legacy?: Her lasting legacy is a more inclusive technology industry, with established organizations and events that continue to empower women in computing, alongside inspiring new generations through scholarships and advocacy for diversity and equity in tech.

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Events on 2003

17 Mar

2003 invasion of Iraq
Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs Robin Cook, resigns from the British Cabinet in disagreement with government plans for the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
7 Apr

Saddam Hussein
U.S. troops capture Baghdad; Saddam Hussein's regime falls two days later.
27 Aug

North Korea and weapons of mass destruction
The first six-party talks, involving South and North Korea, the United States, China, Japan and Russia, convene to find a peaceful resolution to the security concerns of the North Korean nuclear weapons program.
12 Sep

Pan Am Flight 103
The United Nations lifts sanctions against Libya after that country agreed to accept responsibility and recompense the families of victims in the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103.
12 Nov

2003 invasion of Iraq
Iraq War: In Nasiriyah, Iraq, at least 23 people, among them the first Italian casualties of the 2003 invasion of Iraq, are killed in a suicide bomb attack on an Italian police base.