The tech world mourns Susan Wojcicki

Susan Wojcicki, the former CEO of YouTube and a pivotal figure at Google, passed away on Friday after a two-year struggle with non-small cell lung cancer. Wojcicki, who was among the first 20 employees at Google, took the helm of YouTube in 2014 and led the platform until her resignation last year. The announcement of her death was made by her husband, Dennis Troper, and Google CEO Sundar Pichai, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and friends. Many prominent figures in the tech and creative industries expressed their sorrow and shared memories of Wojcicki. Philanthropist Melinda French Gates and writer John Green highlighted her significant contributions, including her quiet support for maternal health initiatives in Sierra Leone. Green described her as a thoughtful and kind leader, while also acknowledging her formidable strength in the face of challenges. Wojcicki's leadership at YouTube was marked by compassion and a willingness to engage with criticism, as noted by various tributes. Ellen K. Pao, former CEO of Reddit, reflected on Wojcicki's kindness, particularly during her own health struggles, emphasizing her ability to reject unappealing work without diminishing others' efforts. Wojcicki's legacy is characterized by her intelligence, humor, and dedication to her family and friends. As a mother, sister, and loyal friend, she will be deeply missed by those who knew her and by the broader tech community she helped shape.