Carly Fiorina

Carly Fiorina is recognized as a business leader in American corporate history. She began her career as a secretary for a small real estate business and became the first woman to lead a Fortune 50 company. Fiorina advanced through roles at AT&T and Lucent Technologies before leading Hewlett-Packard (HP).

Fiorina holds degrees from Stanford University, the University of Maryland, College Park, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She was named "The Most Powerful Woman in American Business" by Fortune Magazine.

Hewlett-Packard appointed Fiorina as CEO, making her the first outsider to lead the company. During her tenure, she navigated the technology industry through a significant downturn and oversaw the acquisition of Compaq Computer Corporation, which resulted in doubled revenues and increased innovation. She managed what was then the largest technology sector merger, transforming HP into a global technology leader. Under her leadership, HP received recognition from Working Mother Magazine, the Human Rights Campaign, and the Financial Times.

After her time at HP, Fiorina expanded her work into public service and government. She chaired the CIA's External Advisory Board and served as an advisor to the U.S. Departments of Defense and State. Fiorina won the Republican nomination for the United States Senate in California and was a candidate in the Republican presidential primary, later becoming the vice-presidential running mate of U.S. Senator Ted Cruz.

Fiorina is the author of several books, including "Tough Choices," "Rising to the Challenge," and "Find Your Way." Her works address leadership, business transformation, and the role of technology in society. "Tough Choices" is an autobiography that discusses her career, leadership philosophy, and perspectives on women in business. "Find Your Way" explores personal and professional development based on her own experiences.

Fiorina continues to be active in public life and civic leadership. She serves as Chair of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and founding Executive Chair of The Williamsburg Institute, a leadership development initiative rooted in American history. She is also the National Honorary Chair of the Virginia 250 Commission. Fiorina has appeared on programs such as CNBC's "Squawk Box" to discuss CEO confidence, economic policy, and America's semiquincentennial. Her career spans business leadership, technology innovation, public service, and civic engagement.