Who Is Susan Wojcicki?
Susan Wojcicki is a prominent figure in the technology industry, known particularly for her role as the CEO of YouTube. She was born on July 5, 1968, in Santa Clara County, California, USA. Wojcicki comes from an academic background; her father was a physics professor at Stanford University, and her mother was an educator. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history and literature from Harvard University and a master’s degree in economics from the University of California, Santa Cruz, as well as an MBA from the UCLA Anderson School of Management.
Wojcicki’s career in technology began when she joined Google in 1999 as its first marketing manager. She played a pivotal role in the development of several key products at Google, including AdSense, Google Images, and Google Books. In 2006, she proposed Google’s acquisition of YouTube, a move that proved to be highly successful for the company. Following the acquisition, Wojcicki became the Senior Vice President of Advertising & Commerce at Google.
In 2014, Wojcicki made a significant career move when she was appointed as the CEO of YouTube, succeeding Salar Kamangar. As CEO, she has overseen the platform’s growth into one of the most popular and influential websites on the internet. Under her leadership, YouTube has expanded its content offerings, introduced new features, and navigated various challenges related to content moderation, copyright issues, and advertiser relations.
Beyond her role at YouTube, Wojcicki is known for her advocacy for diversity and women’s representation in the technology industry. She has spoken out about the importance of supporting women in leadership roles and creating inclusive work environments.
Susan Wojcicki’s leadership at YouTube has had a profound impact on the digital landscape, shaping how people consume and interact with online video content. She continues to be a prominent figure in the technology sector, recognized for her business acumen, innovation, and commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in the industry.
Former YouTube CEO’s son found dead at UC Berkeley:
The 19-year-old son of former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki was discovered deceased at the University of California, Berkeley, on Tuesday, as reported by his grandmother on Facebook.
A student residing at the Clark Kerr Campus, a student housing complex, was found unresponsive around 4:23 p.m. local time on Tuesday, according to UC Berkeley spokesperson Janet Gilmore. The victim’s grandmother, Esther Wojcicki, confirmed his passing and identity in a Facebook post on Wednesday.
In her post, Esther Wojcicki stated, “My beloved grandson Marco Troper, age 19, passed away yesterday. Our family is devastated beyond comprehension.” She described Troper as “the most kind, loving, smart, fun, and beautiful human being.”
Upon responding to the complex, the Berkeley Fire Department informed the University of California Police Department that they were “attempting life-saving measures” on the student, said Gilmore. However, by the time campus police arrived, the Berkeley Fire Department had already pronounced him deceased.
Gilmore mentioned that there were no indications of foul play and that an investigation into the incident was underway.
According to his grandmother, Troper had just embarked on his second semester of freshman year at UC Berkeley, where he was pursuing a major in math “and was truly loving it.”
Esther Wojcicki also noted that aside from excelling academically, Troper had a “strong community of friends,” both from his dorm and his fraternity.
“At home, he would regale us with endless tales of his life and friends at Berkeley,” she expressed.
“Marco’s life was tragically shortened, leaving us all shattered, contemplating the myriad opportunities and life moments he will never experience, and we will never share together,” Esther Wojcicki lamented. “Marco, we cherish and miss you more than words can convey.”
Esther Wojcicki did not immediately respond to a request for comment from NBC News.
While the cause of Troper’s death remains undetermined, Esther Wojcicki informed SF Gate that she suspects her grandson died from a drug overdose. She stated that the family is awaiting the results of a toxicology report.
“He consumed a substance, and we’re uncertain of its contents,” she informed SF Gate, elaborating, “But one thing is clear: it was a drug.”
“We’re determined to prevent any other family from enduring this pain,” Esther Wojcicki affirmed to SF Gate.
Notes: As of February 18, 2024, the official cause of death remains undisclosed. The pending toxicology report, crucial in validating or disproving Marco’s family’s concerns regarding a potential drug overdose, is anticipated to require up to 30 days for completion.