Our History
In 1987, computer scientist Dr. Anita Borg started a digital community for women in computing. Over the years, that community has grown to become the leading organization for individuals in tech. Today, AnitaB.org works in more than 50 countries, and partners with leading academic institutions and Fortune 500 companies.
Our Early Days
Anita Borg began building what would become AnitaB.org in 1987, when she and 12 technologists launched Systers, an online community where women in tech could connect, share resources, and support one another. It was a bold vision for a more human-centered tech industry.
In 1994, Anita and Dr. Telle Whitney founded Grace Hopper Celebration (GHC)—a spirited gathering of women technologists. They wanted to create a space where technical talent could thrive, grow skills, and find community. By 1997, Anita formalized this work through a nonprofit, originally called the Institute for Women and Technology. Her mission was simple but powerful: to ensure women were not just users of technology, but creators and decision-makers shaping its future.
A Legacy of Leadership
When Anita Borg was diagnosed with cancer in 2002, she asked her longtime friend and collaborator Dr. Telle Whitney to step in as interim CEO. After Anita’s passing in 2003, the organization was renamed the Anita Borg Institute for Women in Technology in her honor, and Telle became its President and CEO Over the next 15 years, Telle led the organization through a period of remarkable growth. Under her leadership AnitaB.org profits and GHC grew exponentially, GHC India launched, and so did programs like Top Companies and AnitaB.org Local Communities.
Our Ongoing Mission
Today, our work continues the vision Anita set in motion: to ensure all technologists have the opportunity to thrive, lead, and shape the future of tech.
In 2017, we welcomed Brenda Darden Wilkerson, a longtime advocate for access and opportunity in computer science, as our President and CEO. That same year, we embraced a new name, AnitaB.org, honoring our founder while reflecting a more human-centered, mission-driven identity.
From global recognitions like the Abie Awards, to grassroots support through AnitaB.org Membership, we build spaces for connection, growth, and bold leadership. Through every program, platform, and partnership, we remain committed to challenging systems, supporting our community, and driving meaningful progress across the tech industry.
