Bay Area executive honored for service in helping people live longer, healthier lives
Lip-Bu Tan has spent his whole career helping shape the future of semiconductors. But lately, the Silicon Valley veteran has been investing in something more personal: the human heart.
Tan, chief executive officer of Intel, has become a philanthropist and volunteer for the American Heart Association, including serving as chair of the 2024 Bay Area Heart Ball in San Francisco.
For Tan, cutting-edge science is a vital ally in the fight against cardiovascular disease.
"It's the main reason I got excited about the American Heart Association," he said. "They've funded billions of dollars for scientific research that will result in better treatment and prevention of heart-related disease, as well as educating people about healthy diets and healthy living. I'm happy to support such a great organization."
For the 2024 Bay Area ball, Tan as event chair leveraged his network to raise $2.8 million to support the American Heart Association's mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. During the live auction portion of the event, guests heard the story of a young woman who has survived more than three dozen lifesaving heart surgeries since shortly after she was born. This "Open Your Heart" moment inspired the capacity crowd of 380 including industry leaders in technology, health care and finance to contribute $870,000 in personal pledges to the cause.
For his outstanding efforts, Tan is a recipient of an Award of Meritorious Achievement, which recognizes specific accomplishments or projects that support the American Heart Association's national initiatives. He will be honored at the organization's National Volunteer Awards ceremony in Plano, Texas, on June 17.
"Lip-Bu is a catalyst for real and lifesaving change. We are grateful for his generous philanthropy," said American Heart Association CEO Nancy Brown. "His extraordinary leadership has ignited a cascade of high-profile leadership connections that will grow the Bay Area Heart Ball for many years to come."
Tan, 65, was born in Malaysia and grew up in Singapore before moving to the U.S. He earned a graduate degree in nuclear engineering at MIT and an MBA at the University of San Francisco.
In 1987, he founded the venture capital firm Walden International — named after the book "Walden" by his hero, Henry David Thoreau. With Walden International, he focused on investing in semiconductors, computer chips and other tech businesses.
Tan went on to serve as CEO of Cadence Design Systems for 12 years, and in March, he was named CEO of Intel Corporation, based in Santa Clara, California.
He credits several friends for inviting him to volunteer with the AHA, including Dr. Joseph Wu, immediate past president of the organization.
Wu described Tan as "a mentor, a visionary leader and entrepreneur whose contributions to the computer technology and semiconductor industries have had a profound global impact. He has championed innovation while promoting healthy workplace cultures."
"Lip-Bu's dedication to philanthropy and community well-being aligns with the values of the American Heart Association," Wu said. "His leadership, integrity and commitment make him the ideal AHA ambassador to the worlds of computers, semiconductors and Silicon Valley companies. He is most deserving and a distinguished recipient of the AHA's Award of Meritorious Achievement."
Tan's favorite line from "Walden" – "Rather than love, than money, than fame, give me truth" – is his credo for conducting business and philanthropy with a sense of integrity.
"Giving back is important. When I was young, my mom always said you should give away 10% of your (earnings). That's always been my philosophy, to give back and help the community and the welfare of the employees," he said.
"People get busy, but it's also important to give your time, too. It's good to make the effort and to be involved. It's more blessed to give than to receive."
Tan's commitment to helping prevent cardiovascular disease is a family affair. His brother, Dr. Lip-Bun Tan, is a U.K.-based cardiologist and heart disease researcher.
As a tech leader, Tan knows his influence can go far beyond business. He said he wants to lead by example with his work to fight cardiovascular disease.
"Hopefully, I can be a role model and inspiration for others to contribute to the American Heart Association and to be aware of this disease. More people need to know how to prevent it and how to get help if they need it," he said.
Tan said he's grateful for the opportunity "to keep supporting such a capable team as they continue their important work for a very good cause."
