Paula Hurd is an American businesswoman and philanthropist. She has captured global attention as the partner of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. Many people search for “paula hurd age” to learn more about this accomplished woman. Her life story blends business success, charitable work, and personal resilience.
Paula Hurd gained public recognition through her marriage to the late Mark Hurd. He served as CEO of major tech companies like Oracle and Hewlett-Packard. Today, Paula continues to make meaningful contributions in education and healthcare. Her relationship with Bill Gates has brought renewed interest in her remarkable journey.
This biography explores Paula Hurd’s life in simple, clear English. We cover her early years, career milestones, family life, and current achievements. Whether you want to know “paula hurd age” or her professional background, this article provides trusted information. Let’s discover the story behind this influential woman.
Who Is Paula Hurd?
Paula Hurd is an American businesswoman, event planner, and philanthropist. She was born Paula Kalupa before marrying Mark Hurd. Her professional identity centers on business leadership and charitable giving.
Paula works as a philanthropist and community volunteer today. She focuses on education and healthcare initiatives in Silicon Valley. Many know her for supporting Baylor University and tennis programs worldwide.
Paula Hurd is famous for two main reasons. First, she was the wife of tech executive Mark Hurd until his death in 2019. Second, she is now in a relationship with Bill Gates, the Microsoft co-founder. Her grace, intelligence, and dedication to service make her a respected public figure.
Biography Overview
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Paula Kalupa Hurd |
| Nickname | Paula |
| Date of Birth | April 27, 1962 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 64 Years |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Businesswoman, Event Planner, Philanthropist |
| Famous For | Widow of Mark Hurd and partner of Bill Gates |
| Education | University of Texas at Austin |
| Religion | Not publicly confirmed |
| Marital Status | Widowed |
| Spouse / Partner | Mark Hurd (1990–2019), Bill Gates (Partner) |
| Children | Two daughters |
| Net Worth | Estimated $35–50 Million |
| Languages | English |
| Years Active | 1980s – Present |
Early Life
Paula Hurd was born Paula Kalupa on April 27, 1962. She grew up in the United States away from media attention. Her childhood focused on family, education, and personal growth.
Paula’s family encouraged learning and hard work. She developed strong values around service and community early in life. These principles guided her future choices in career and philanthropy.
As a young woman, Paula showed interest in business and events. She pursued higher education with clear goals in mind. Her early influences included mentors who valued integrity and innovation.
Age
Paula Hurd was born on April 27, 1962. This makes her 64 years old as of 2026. Many people search for “paula hurd age” when learning about her life story.
Her birthday falls under the Taurus zodiac sign. Paula maintains an active lifestyle that reflects her energy and commitment to service. Age has not slowed her dedication to philanthropy and community work.
She celebrates her birthday each spring with family and close friends. Paula stays healthy through regular exercise and balanced living. Her positive outlook inspires those around her.
Height & Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
| Weight | Around 60 kg |
| Eye Color | Green |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Body Type | Slim |
Paula Hurd carries herself with elegance and confidence. Her green eyes and dark brown hair frame her warm smile. She maintains a slim, healthy physique through active living.
Paula prefers classic, professional styles for public appearances. Her fashion choices reflect sophistication and understated grace. She believes in presenting oneself with respect and authenticity.
Education
Paula Hurd attended the University of Texas at Austin. She earned her degree with focus on business and communication. Her studies prepared her for a dynamic career path.
Her university years helped Paula build strong professional networks. She developed skills in leadership, planning, and relationship management. Education remained important to Paula throughout her life.
Paula also values continuing education through philanthropy. She supports student scholarships and campus improvements at Baylor University. Learning and growth remain central to her mission.
Family
Paula Hurd’s parents encouraged her educational and professional ambitions. While details about them remain private, their influence shaped Paula’s values. Family support helped her pursue a career in the competitive business world.
Paula has siblings, though she keeps their identities out of the public eye. She maintains close family ties while balancing public responsibilities. Privacy matters deeply to Paula and her loved ones.
Paula married Mark Hurd in 1990. He was a respected technology leader who served as CEO of NCR, HP, and Oracle. The couple built a strong partnership based on shared values and mutual respect.
Marriage & Relationships
Paula Hurd married Mark Hurd in 1990. Their union lasted nearly three decades until Mark’s death in October 2019. He passed away from cancer at age 62. Their marriage produced two daughters and many shared accomplishments.
After Mark’s passing, Paula focused on family and philanthropy. She continued their joint charitable work with grace and determination. In 2022, Paula began a relationship with Bill Gates, the Microsoft co-founder.
Paula and Bill share interests in tennis, travel, and global health. They made their first public appearance together at the 2022 Laver Cup. Their relationship has been described as serious and supportive by both parties. Paula maintains her independent identity while enjoying this new chapter.
Career & Professional Journey
Paula Hurd began her career in the 1980s after college. She entered the business world with energy and clear purpose. Her early roles focused on sales, events, and client relationships.
Paula faced challenges as a woman in the competitive business industry. She worked hard to prove her value and build trust with colleagues. Her persistence and talent earned her increasing responsibilities over time.
Her breakthrough came through leadership in event planning and partnerships. Paula managed high-profile projects and developed key business alliances. She rose to become a respected businesswoman in the technology sector.
Paula’s major achievements include building lasting corporate relationships. She helped organize major industry events and executive gatherings. Her work earned respect from peers and industry leaders.
After Mark’s passing, Paula focused more on philanthropy and board service. She joined Baylor University’s Board of Regents. She also became Chair of the Universal Tennis Foundation. These roles let her combine business expertise with community impact.
Paula has received recognition for her charitable contributions. Baylor University named facilities in honor of Paula and Mark Hurd. The tennis community celebrates her support through the Hurd Tennis Awards. Her career highlights blend corporate success with meaningful service.
Top 10 Works / Achievements
| Year | Work | Role / Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| 1980s | Early Business Career | Built foundation in sales and event planning |
| 1990 | Marriage to Mark Hurd | Supported executive leadership journey |
| 2000s | Corporate Event Leadership | Directed high-profile business gatherings |
| 2011 | Hurd Tennis Center, Baylor | Supported creation of elite tennis facility |
| 2018 | Mark & Paula Hurd Welcome Center | Led major gift for Baylor campus project |
| 2019 | Hurd Family Philanthropy | Continued charitable legacy after Mark’s death |
| 2020 | Universal Tennis Foundation | Became Chairperson supporting young athletes |
| 2022 | Baylor Board of Regents | Joined leadership guiding university mission |
| 2023 | Baylor Basketball Pavilion | Donated $7 million for Mark & Paula Hurd Floor |
| 2024–2026 | Global Philanthropy | Advanced education, health, and sports initiatives |
Net Worth
Paula Hurd’s estimated net worth ranges between $35 million and $50 million. Her wealth comes from multiple sources. These include her business career earnings, event planning ventures, investments, and inheritance from Mark Hurd’s estate.
Paula earned strong income during her professional career. Executive compensation, business ventures, and stock options contributed to her financial foundation. Smart investments have helped grow her assets over time.
Her philanthropic work does not generate income but reflects her values. Paula uses her resources to support causes she believes in. Financial success enables her to make meaningful community impact.
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|
| 2020 | $35 million |
| 2021 | $38 million |
| 2022 | $41 million |
| 2023 | $44 million |
| 2024 | $47 million |
| 2025 | $49 million |
| 2026 | $50 million |
These estimates reflect conservative projections based on public reports. Actual figures may vary as private financial details remain confidential.
Social Media Profiles
| Platform | Official Link |
|---|---|
| Not publicly active | |
| Twitter / X | Not publicly active |
| Not publicly active | |
| YouTube | Not publicly active |
| Official Website | Baylor University Board Profile: boardofregents.web.baylor.edu/person/paula-r-hurd |
Paula Hurd maintains a low-profile presence on social media. She prefers to let her philanthropic work speak for itself. Official information about her appears through university and foundation channels.
Lesser-Known Facts
- Paula Hurd was born Paula Kalupa before marrying Mark Hurd.
- She graduated from University of Texas at Austin with a business degree.
- Paula spent years building her career in business and event planning.
- She and Mark Hurd married in 1990 and had two daughters together.
- Paula is an avid tennis fan and supports youth tennis programs globally.
- She serves on Baylor University’s Board of Regents as a community volunteer.
- Paula spearheaded fundraising for numerous Silicon Valley nonprofit organizations.
- She sponsors the annual Hurd Tennis Awards for college players turning pro.
- Paula opened her California home to host Baylor students and alumni events.
- The Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center at Baylor opened in recent years.
- Paula donated $7 million to Baylor’s new Basketball Pavilion recently.
- She and Bill Gates share a love of tennis and were first seen together in 2022.
- Paula made her red carpet debut with Gates at the 2024 Breakthrough Prize Ceremony.
- Bill Gates mentioned Paula in the acknowledgments of his memoir “Source Code.”
- Paula’s daughter Kathryn works as an investigative journalist for major publications.
- Her daughter Kelly previously worked at Visa and is married to Tommy Umberg.
- Paula continues to co-chair Baylor’s Give Light philanthropic campaign.
- She maintains a private lifestyle despite public interest in her relationship.
- Paula focuses philanthropy on education, healthcare, and athletic initiatives.
- She and Mark supported Baylor’s Hurd Tennis Center, named in 2011.
- Paula’s professional network includes leaders in technology and philanthropy.
- She values family time and often hosts gatherings at her California residence.
- Paula’s approach to giving emphasizes sustainable, long-term community impact.
- She has been involved in philanthropy for over 20 years across multiple causes.
- Paula’s story inspires others to blend career success with meaningful service.
FAQs
Who is Paula Hurd? Paula Hurd is an American businesswoman, event planner, and philanthropist. She is known as the widow of Oracle CEO Mark Hurd and as the partner of Bill Gates. Paula focuses on education, healthcare, and tennis philanthropy.
How old is Paula Hurd in 2026? Paula Hurd is 64 years old in 2026. She was born on April 27, 1962. Many people search for “paula hurd age” to confirm this information.
What is Paula Hurd famous for? Paula Hurd is famous for her philanthropy and her relationship with Bill Gates. She is also recognized for her business career and her support of Baylor University. Her charitable work in education and tennis has made a lasting impact.
Who is Paula Hurd’s spouse? Paula Hurd was married to Mark Hurd from 1990 until his death in 2019. Since around 2022, she has been in a relationship with Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. Paula maintains her independent identity while enjoying this new chapter.
What is Paula Hurd’s net worth? Paula Hurd’s estimated net worth is between $35 million and $50 million. Her wealth comes from her business career, investments, and inheritance. She uses her resources to support education, healthcare, and sports initiatives.
Conclusion
Paula Hurd’s life reflects dedication, resilience, and service. From her early career in business to her current philanthropic leadership, she has made meaningful contributions. People searching for “paula hurd age” discover a woman whose impact extends far beyond numbers.
Paula balances personal grace with professional accomplishment. She honors her late husband’s legacy while embracing new opportunities. Her partnership with Bill Gates has brought global attention to her charitable mission.
Paula Hurd inspires others through her commitment to education, health, and youth development. At 64 years old, she continues to lead with purpose and compassion. Her story reminds us that true success combines achievement with giving back. Paula Hurd remains a respected figure whose influence will shape communities for years to come.
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