Last updated on: February 21, 2025
Donna Zuckerberg was born in 1987 in Dobbs Ferry, New York to Edward Zuckerberg (dentist) and Karen Zuckerberg (psychologist). Donna spent most of her time at Dobbs Ferry Elementary school while growing up. Both Edward and Karen worked as educators. Her father served as dentist while Karen Kempner provided therapeutic care – her upbringing fostering both her curiosity and intellect.
Donna was one of four siblings: Randi, Mark and Arielle. Each pursued different career paths – Randi in tech/media; Arielle in venture capital. Donna instead chose academia for her professional endeavors.
Quick Facts About Donna Zuckerberg
| Full Name | Donna Zuckerberg |
| Birthdate | 1987 |
| Age | 38 years and 2 months old |
| Occupation | Author, Scholar, Editor |
| Husband/Wife | Previously married to Harry Schmidt |
| Education | Ph.D. in Classics from Princeton University |
| Parents | Edward Zuckerberg (Father), Karen Zuckerberg (Mother) |
| Siblings | Mark Zuckerberg, Randi Zuckerberg, Arielle Zuckerberg |
| Children | Two |
| Net Worth | Estimated around $5 million (as of 2025) |
Education
Donna attended Princeton University where she majored in Classics. Upon graduation in 2014, she continued her education by obtaining a Ph.D. in Classics; her studies focused on ancient Greek and Roman literature which has informed both her career choices and interests in future work environments.
Career and Accomplishments
Donna is well-recognized for her contributions to classical studies. In 2015, she created Eidolon: an online journal dedicated to Greek and Roman literature – making academic writing more accessible by linking ancient texts with modern issues.
In 2018, she published Not All Dead White Men. In it, she explores how certain online communities misuse classical texts to support harmful ideologies; specifically how ancient philosophy may sometimes be misappropriated to justify sexism and misogyny today.
Donna has written for major publications like the Washington Post, BBC Online and Jezebel. Additionally, she frequently speaks at universities and conferences worldwide sharing her research and insights.
Focus on Gender and Power
Donna focuses her work around gender and power. She studies how classic literature reflects social hierarchies that continue to have an effect on society today, and uses history as a way of justifying inequality. Her writings address misuse of history for discriminatory ends.
Donna was committed to inclusive scholarship through Eidolon. This platform welcomed diverse voices while discussing issues like race, gender and social justice.
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Views on Social Media
Though her brother Mark made social media revolutionary, Donna has expressed concern about its potential effects. She believes platforms like Facebook can spread harmful ideologies. Although Donna does not criticize Mark directly, she acknowledges the challenges presented by social media.
Donna advocates for responsible technology use. She emphasizes the significance of engaging critically with online historical narratives.
Personal Life
Donna lives in Silicon Valley with her two children and was previously married to Harry Schmidt, a software developer. Although part of a prominent tech family, Donna has built an exceptional career outside the tech field in education and writing.
