Susan Dell is the one running the Dells’ $10 billion giving operation—and her biggest bets are on kids, health care, and UT Austin

Susan Dell is taking a leading role in deciding how the Dell family directs its charitable fortune. Her priorities include children, health care and the University of Texas at Austin.

The scale of the effort is substantial. Michael Dell, the computer executive, is the world’s sixth-richest person, with an estimated net worth of about $232 billion. Together, Michael and Susan Dell have given away approximately $10 billion.

A major philanthropic operation

While the donations are backed by the family’s wealth, Susan Dell is calling many of the shots on where the money goes. That gives her a central role in shaping the focus of one of the largest giving operations associated with the fortune.

The stated areas of interest point to a combination of social and institutional priorities. Support for children and health care addresses broad public needs, while attention to UT Austin reflects a commitment to the university.

Why the focus matters

The Dells’ giving illustrates how decisions by a wealthy family can influence several important areas at once. For the organizations and communities connected to these priorities, the family’s donations represent a significant source of philanthropic support.

For now, the central fact is the role Susan Dell plays in setting the direction of the family’s charitable spending, as the Dells continue to give from their substantial fortune.