Pam Omidyar
Pam is a philanthropist, mom, and ocean lover. She and Pierre share the belief that all people can improve their lives and that of their community, if given the right access and opportunities. To fulfill their mission, they created organizations and supported initiatives in a wide range of philanthropic areas across The Omidyar Group.
One of Pierre and Pam’s first organizations was Omidyar Network, a philanthropic investment firm, funding both for-profit companies and nonprofit organizations to create opportunity for individuals around the world to improve their own lives. As a member of the board, Pam plays an ongoing role in steering the organization’s work.
Soon after the creation of Omidyar Network, there was a clear realization that there are some people who are unable to take advantage of the economic opportunities Omidyar Network creates. As a result, Pam had a vision for the creation of Humanity United – an organization dedicated to ending human rights abuses such as mass violence and modern-day slavery, and building peace and advancing freedom in areas where that ideal is challenged most. Pam believes that everyone has the right to a life that is peaceful and free and she is actively engaged with Humanity United as its board chair.
Pam also founded Hopelab, a non-for-profit created with the idea that young people who have chronic illnesses can make positive behavior changes to improve their treatment. HopeLab is now embarking upon a deeper exploration of how science, technology, and the power of play can be harnessed to support resilience in young people as a way to improve health. Pam remains a guiding visionary at HopeLab, serving on its board.
Pam has a bachelor’s degree in biology from Tufts University, a master’s in plant molecular genetics from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and is a perpetual learner. She serves on several advisory and trustee boards, loves quilting and being in and on the ocean.