BIOGRAPHY
James C. Morgan is an influential nonprofit and philanthropic leader, based in Silicon Valley, who has worked extensively in the worlds of both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. He led the semiconductor equipment giant, Applied Materials, for nearly three decades — one of the longest tenures of any Fortune 500 CEO. He recounts those years, and the many lessons he learned, in his first book, Applied Wisdom: Bad News Is Good News and Other Insights That Can Help Anyone Be a Better Manager.
Recognition and Awards
Jim has served as a technology adviser to three U.S. presidents, including George H. W. Bush and George W. Bush. In 1996, he was presented with the National Medal of Technology and Innovation by President Bill Clinton.
The role that he has played in the growth and success of Silicon Valley continues to be recognized. In July 2023 he received the Imec Lifetime of Innovation Award “for his immense impact on the semiconductor industry as well as on society at large.”
Jim was instrumental in creating The Tech Interactive’s Tech for Global Good awards and inspired the James C. Morgan Global Humanitarian Award, honoring individuals whose broad vision and leadership are focused on combating critical global problems. Past recipients have included Bill Gates, Gordon Moore, Al Gore, and Julie Packard. The 2023 winner was entrepreneur, creative innovator, futurist and philanthropist will.i.am.
Jim and Becky Morgan reside in Northern California near their two children and five grandchildren. His latest book is Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector: Eight Practical Insights for Leaders.