When philanthropy’s power couple splits, Melinda French Gates’s influence could grow

At the Gates Foundation, French Gates, who now prefers the addition of her maiden name, has frequently spearheaded efforts focused on women’s empowerment, an area where some philanthropy experts say she could expand her giving. Women’s issues have always been a part of the foundation’s giving, although it is best known for its initiatives to address global health and, more recently, to end the coronavirus pandemic.