The Markle Foundation is deeply saddened to share that our longtime board member, colleague, and friend, Steven A. Denning, passed away on April 27, 2026. He was 77.
Steve joined the Markle Board of Directors in December 2018, drawn to the Foundation’s belief that technology, thoughtfully applied, can address some of the nation’s most pressing challenges. Over the years, he brought to Markle the same qualities that defined his decades-long career: clear vision, generosity of spirit, and a belief that technology can be harnessed for the public good. Whether the conversation focused on the future of work, the responsible use of AI, or the launch of Markle’s new AI for Disasters + Emergencies (AIDE) Initiative, Steve consistently challenged us to think bigger and to act.
“Steve was a wise counselor, a remarkable colleague, and a true friend,” said Ellen V. Futter, President of the Markle Foundation. “He brought to Markle not only an extraordinary record of achievement, but a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. He believed that institutions have an obligation to look forward and to help society navigate change, and he lived that belief every day. We shall miss his vision and friendship profoundly. Our thoughts are with Roberta, his children, and the entire Denning family.”
“Steve embodied the very best of what it means to serve,” said Suzanne Nora Johnson, Chair of the Markle Foundation Board of Directors. “He was generous with his time, his ideas, and his enthusiasm for tackling problems that mattered. He believed in Markle’s mission and helped guide the Foundation through pivotal moments with insight, integrity, and grace. His legacy of service will continue to inspire us.”
Steve spent more than four decades at General Atlantic, the global growth investment firm that he helped build from its earliest days, serving as CEO from 1995 to 2007 and then as Chairman until 2021. Beyond his business career, he dedicated much of his time to many civic and philanthropic works. He was Stanford University’s longest-serving Board chair and a former co-chair of The Nature Conservancy. He was also a trustee or director of the American Museum of Natural History, Blue Meridian Partners, Brookings Institution, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Georgia Tech Foundation, and National Park Foundation, among many others.
Steve is survived by his wife, Roberta Bowman Denning; his children, Robert and Carrie; and his grandson, Finn. The Markle Board and team extend their deepest condolences to his family and to the many institutions and communities that benefited from his extraordinary life of service.
