Susan Wojcicki, a name synonymous with Silicon Valley’s innovation, left an indelible mark on the tech industry through her visionary leadership. Yet, behind her celebrated career as the former CEO of YouTube, Susan was also a devoted wife, mother, and philanthropist.
Her journey from a humble beginning to becoming one of the most influential figures in tech is a story of passion, perseverance, and a deep connection to her family, particularly her husband, Dennis Troper.
Early Life and Academic Foundations
Born on July 5, 1968, in Santa Clara, California, Susan Diane Wojcicki grew up in a household steeped in academia. Her father, Stanley Wojcicki, was a respected physicist at Stanford University, and her mother, Esther Wojcicki, was an influential journalist and educator.
The eldest of three daughters, Susan was surrounded by intellectual curiosity and a strong emphasis on education. Her younger sisters, Anne and Janet, also went on to pursue notable careers, with Anne co-founding the genetics company 23andMe.
Susan’s academic journey took her from Harvard University, where she studied literature and history, to the University of California, Santa Cruz. It was at UC Santa Cruz that she earned her master’s degree in applied economics, a decision that would lay the groundwork for her future in technology.
During her time at UC Santa Cruz, Susan met Dennis Troper, a fellow student pursuing the same degree. Their shared passion for economics and analytics quickly blossomed into a deep and enduring relationship.
The Birth of a Tech Giant and a Lifelong Partnership
In 1998, Susan and Dennis made a life-altering decision when they rented out the garage of their Menlo Park home to two young Stanford students, Larry Page and Sergey Brin. The fledgling company they were starting in that garage was none other than Google.
Just a year later, Susan left her job at Intel to become Google’s first marketing manager, marking the beginning of her legendary career in the tech industry.
As Susan’s career with Google flourished, she and Dennis continued to build their life together, both personally and professionally.
They married in 1998 and went on to have five children. Despite the demands of her career, Susan was known for her ability to balance her work with her family life, often speaking about the importance of spending quality time with her husband and children.
Leading YouTube and Supporting Education
In 2006, Susan made one of her most significant contributions to Google by spearheading the company’s $1.65 billion acquisition of YouTube.
Under her leadership, YouTube grew from a simple video-sharing site into the world’s largest video platform, fundamentally changing how people consume media. In 2014, Susan was appointed CEO of YouTube, a position she held until she stepped down in 2023.
Throughout her career, Susan never lost sight of her roots and her commitment to education. Together with Dennis, she became a champion of educational initiatives, particularly at their alma mater, UC Santa Cruz.
The couple provided scholarships to first-generation college students, helping to break down barriers and create opportunities for those who needed it most. Their philanthropy not only changed lives but also reinforced their belief in the transformative power of education.
A Battle with Cancer and an Enduring Legacy
In 2022, Susan was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, a battle she faced with the same strength and determination that defined her career. Despite her illness, she remained deeply involved in her work and her family’s life. On August 10, 2024, Susan passed away at the age of 56, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond her professional achievements.
Her husband, Dennis Troper, shared the heartbreaking news of her passing in a poignant Facebook post, writing, “My beloved wife of 26 years and mother to our five children left us today after two years of living with non-small cell lung cancer.” His words echoed the profound love and partnership they shared throughout their lives together.
Conclusion
Susan Wojcicki’s life was one of extraordinary accomplishments, but at its core, it was also a life of love and family. Her partnership with Dennis Troper was a cornerstone of her journey, providing her with support and strength as she navigated the challenges of leading one of the world’s most influential companies.
As we remember Susan, we honor not only her contributions to the tech world but also the deep personal connections that defined her life. She leaves behind a legacy of innovation, philanthropy, and, most importantly, love—a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations to come.