Biography:
Lisa Gelobter is a renowned computer scientist, technologist, and chief executive known for her groundbreaking work in the tech industry. Born in 1971, Gelobter has made significant contributions to various fields, including software development, digital services, and social impact.
Gelobter’s diverse background has been influential in shaping her career. Her father was a Polish Jew, and her mother was Afro-Caribbean. This multicultural heritage has instilled in her a deep understanding of diversity, inclusion, and the importance of equal representation.
In 1991, Gelobter graduated from Brown University at the remarkable age of 20, earning a computer science degree with a concentration in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Her early academic accomplishments foreshadowed the extraordinary path she would embark upon in the tech industry.
Throughout her career, Gelobter has demonstrated expertise in strategy development, business operations, user-centered design, product management, and engineering. Her impressive skill set has led her to various leadership roles in both the public and private sectors.
Under the administration of President Barack Obama, Gelobter served as the Chief Digital Service Officer for the United States Department of Education. In this pivotal role, she spearheaded initiatives to modernize and improve the digital infrastructure of the education system. Gelobter played a crucial part in enhancing HealthCare.gov, streamlining the website’s navigation and reducing overall application time.
Another remarkable achievement during Gelobter’s tenure was her leadership in building the United States Department of Education College Scorecard. This online tool revolutionized the college selection process for students by providing comprehensive and objective data on various institutions. Gelobter’s vision for empowering students through technology cemented her status as a driving force for positive change.
Prior to her public service, Gelobter held the position of Chief Digital Officer for BET Networks and was a vital member of the senior management team for the launch of Hulu. She also played a pivotal role in the development of Shockwave, a groundbreaking multimedia platform used for video games.
In 2006, Gelobter founded tEQuitable, a start-up dedicated to combating workplace bias, harassment, and discrimination. As the Chief Executive Officer, she raised over $2 million for the platform, making her one of the few African American women to achieve such significant venture capital funding. Her commitment to creating a safe and inclusive work environment has had a lasting impact on the industry.
Gelobter’s exceptional contributions have been widely recognized. She serves on the advisory board of Bridge Foundry, an organization focused on increasing diversity in the tech industry. Additionally, she has been named one of Fast Company’s Most Creative People, further attesting to her innovative spirit and remarkable achievements.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Gelobter is a former member of the New York Urban League STEM Advisory Board. Through her involvement, she has championed opportunities for underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
With her pioneering work in technology, Gelobter has paved the way for future generations of women and minorities in the industry. Her dedication to diversity, inclusion, and social impact has shaped her legacy as a true trailblazer in the field of computer science.