Overview

Priscilla Chan (born February 24, 1985) is an American pediatrician and philanthropist. She trained in medicine and has combined clinical work with large-scale philanthropic efforts aimed at education, biomedical research, and community health. She is married to Mark Zuckerberg, the co‑founder and chief executive of Facebook.

Education and medical background

Chan completed undergraduate studies and later earned a medical degree before entering pediatric practice. She has worked as a practicing pediatrician, seeing patients and participating in early-childhood health initiatives. Her clinical training and experience have shaped her interest in improving health outcomes for children and families.

Philanthropy and initiatives

In 2015 Chan and her husband created the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI), a philanthropic organization that uses donations, investments and policy work to pursue long‑term goals. The initiative’s stated priorities include advancing scientific research, expanding educational opportunities, and supporting criminal justice and housing reform through grants and partnerships.

Areas of focus

  • Education: projects that support personalized learning, early‑childhood programs and school partnerships.
  • Science and health: funding for biomedical research, tools for sharing scientific data, and efforts to accelerate cures and treatments.
  • Community and policy: investments in local services, affordable housing and reform initiatives that address inequality.

Public role and distinctions

Chan is known for combining a clinical perspective with philanthropy. Public attention increased after the couple announced a long‑term commitment of the majority of their wealth to philanthropic work. Within the philanthropic sector she is recognized for emphasizing evidence, partnerships with researchers and educators, and programs intended to scale impact over time.

Notable facts

Chan’s work spans hands‑on medical practice and strategic philanthropy. Observers often note the blending of private philanthropy, public policy goals and technology‑driven approaches in initiatives she helps lead. Her profile highlights a growing trend of medically trained professionals moving into large‑scale social investment and program design.