Early Life
Marilyn Hawrys Simons was born in Brightwaters, New York, and has working-class roots. Her family background influenced her values of diligence, humility, and a focus on results. She was the first woman in her family to attend higher education, earning a B.A. and a Ph.D. in economics from the State University of New York at Stony Brook.
Rise to Success
Marilyn Simons is the co-founder of the Simons Foundation, which she established with her late husband, Jim Simons, in 1994. Jim Simons founded Renaissance Technologies, a hedge fund that pioneered quantitative trading. The firm is known for its Medallion Fund, which has generated significant returns over the years.
Key Business Strategies
Marilyn Simons chairs the Simons Foundation, which funds research in mathematics, basic sciences, neuroscience, autism, and other areas. She is focused on supporting STEM research, education, and outreach.
Philanthropy
Marilyn Simons is a dedicated philanthropist who supports basic science research, education, and outreach. She is involved in various initiatives, including the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and the East Harlem Scholars Academies. The Simons Foundation has provided significant funding for autism research.