Today, the University of Washington community is mourning the passing of Bill Neukom, a visionary leader who dedicated his life to strengthening communities through law, leadership and service. Bill will be remembered not only for his extraordinary impact, but for the warmth, humility and deep purpose he brought to everything he touched. His decades-long connection to the UW leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to shape the University and the world we serve.
Bill began his legal career here in Seattle, clerking for a King County Superior Court judge and later joining a small local firm before becoming the lead counsel for Microsoft, where he built its legal team into a global operation. His sharp mind in combination with his staunch code of ethics helped shape the company’s success and deepen his own commitment to justice and public good.
His commitment to legal justice was epitomized by the World Justice Project, the nonprofit he founded in 2006 to promote the rule of law globally. His thoughtful leadership and unwavering belief in justice and humanity shaped its mission, reflecting his deep commitment to building a fairer world for all.
This same passion and dedication defined his long-standing relationship with the UW, where his generosity reached across the University, including his support of the UW Medicine Covid-19 Heroes fund, the Rainier Valley Early Learning Campus, the Harborview Benefit Fund and significant gifts to the UW Law School, including major contributions to the construction of William H. Gates Hall.
But perhaps his greatest gifts were those of his time, insight and vision. His volunteer service on boards and committees—including serving as emeritus director of the UW Foundation Board and as a member of the UW Diversity Committee and the Evans School Consensus Center Board—helped guide the UW’s growth and amplify its mission.
Bill also had a deep connection to the UW Law School, serving on the campaign committee during Campaign UW: Creating Futures and partnering with deans and faculty to develop coursework on the fundamental importance of the rule of law—equipping generations of future lawyers with a strong foundation in justice and civic responsibility.
At the time of his passing, Bill was the Chair of the External Advisory Board for Population Health, an interdisciplinary effort to address the biggest challenges facing our communities, locally and globally. Bill generously accepted my request that he take on this role, and he consistently brought his vision and wisdom to the work of driving real progress in human health, environmental resilience, and social and economic equity. His leadership and compassion will remain a guiding light as we continue the endeavor he was so passionate about.
Bill will be missed immensely, and our hearts are with his beloved family—his wife, Sally, and his children and grandchildren—as we honor the life and enduring contributions of a man whose legacy will be felt for generations to come.