Who is Michele Kang? Age, Career Explored

Michele Kang is an influential American businesswoman, investor, philanthropist, and sports team owner, recognized for her impactful contributions across multiple sectors. Born in South Korea in June 1959, Kang immigrated to the United States as a student, driven by her ambition to pursue the American dream.

Education and Early Career

Kang boasts an impressive educational background, holding a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Chicago and a master’s degree in public and private management from the Yale School of Management. She began her professional journey in management consulting, where she advised companies on how to harness emerging technologies for innovation and growth.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

In 2008, Kang founded Cognosante, a health information technology firm, starting with just a small office above her garage. Under her guidance, Cognosante has expanded rapidly, establishing itself as a key provider of innovative health technology solutions for federal health, military, and intelligence agencies, as well as state health programs. Today, the company employs nearly 2,000 individuals across the United States and internationally.

Before launching Cognosante, Kang held notable positions in several other organizations, including:

• Partner at Ernst & Young, focusing on the high-tech and telecommunications sectors.
• Vice President at Northrop Grumman, where she managed various divisions, including e-Business, Global Information Technology, and Health & Science Solutions.

Pioneering Sports Ownership

Kang has made significant strides in sports ownership:

• In 2022, she made history as the first woman of colour to own a National Women’s Soccer League team, the Washington Spirit.
• In 2023, she entered an agreement with OL Groupe to acquire OL Féminin, forming the first global multi-team women’s soccer organization.
• In December 2023, she further expanded her influence in women’s football by acquiring the London City Lionesses.

Philanthropic Impact and Recognition

Kang is also known for her philanthropic contributions and has received numerous accolades, including:

• The 2023 Horatio Alger Award.
• Recognition as one of Sports Business Journal’s 2022 Power Players in Women’s Sports.
• The 2023 Sports Business Journal Deal of the Year Award for her acquisition of the Washington Spirit.
• Inclusion in Sports Illustrated’s 2023 Power List of the 50 Most Influential Figures in Sports.

Her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is reflected in her business practices and philanthropic initiatives. Kang actively supports various causes, including organizations that assist veterans, promote women in STEM fields, and advance the arts.

At 65 years old (as of 2024), Michele Kang remains a pioneering figure in business, sports, and philanthropy, consistently challenging the status quo and creating pathways for others to achieve their own American dreams.