Celebrating Black History Month – Dr. Marian R. Croak, The Innovator Who Transformed Communication
The Black Woman Behind the Technology Powering Skype, Zoom & More!
You probably don’t know it, but when you make a call on Zoom, chat with a friend on Skype, or use any internet-based communication platform, you’re benefiting from the visionary work of Dr. Marian Rogers Croak. This groundbreaking inventor is a true pioneer in the world of technology, credited with advancing Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP)—the very system that enables voice and video communication over the internet. Thanks to her innovations, billions of people across the globe can connect with just a tap, breaking barriers and shrinking distances like never before.
A Childhood Spark Becomes a World-Changing Career
Born on May 14, 1955, and raised in New York City, Marian’s fascination with technology started early, nurtured by her father. Although he had little formal education, he built her a chemistry set, fueling a love for science and problem-solving. Young Marian was captivated by how things worked—plumbing, electricity, and all the inner workings of the home. That curiosity shaped her future, leading her to Princeton University for her bachelor’s degree and later to the University of Southern California, where she earned a PhD in Social Psychology and Quantitative Analysis.
That path led her to Bell Labs, where she would spend 30 years innovating and transforming telecommunications.
A Legacy of Innovation: 125 Patents & Over 2,000 Engineers Led
Dr. Croak’s work at AT&T was nothing short of extraordinary. She led a team of over 2,000 engineers and computer scientists, overseeing 500+ programs that shaped the company’s enterprise and consumer services. Throughout her career, she amassed more than 125 patents, with many focused on enhancing internet-based communication.
One of her most impactful inventions came in response to a crisis. After Hurricane Katrina, Dr. Croak developed the technology that allowed people to donate to charities simply by texting. What started as a way to help in a time of need quickly became a game-changer in mobile giving. The impact was undeniable—following the 2010 Haiti earthquake, this technology helped raise over $43 million in relief donations.
For this groundbreaking work, she received the prestigious Thomas Edison Patent Award in 2013.
Driving the Future of Technology at Google
In 2014, Dr. Croak joined Google as a Vice President of Engineering, where she continues to shape the future of technology. At Google, she has been instrumental in expanding internet accessibility in developing regions and leading Responsible AI initiatives, ensuring that artificial intelligence is developed ethically and equitably. She is also deeply involved in racial justice efforts, using her influence to inspire and uplift the next generation of engineers—especially women and young girls.
A Hall of Fame Legacy
Dr. Marian R. Croak’s contributions to technology have earned her well-deserved recognition at the highest levels. She has been inducted into the National Academy of Engineers, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and in 2022, the National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF). That historic induction made her one of the first two Black women ever honored in the NIHF, standing alongside just 48 other women and 30 Black inventors.
Dr. Croak once said that when the internet first gained popularity, she foresaw its potential to revolutionize communication. She took that vision and made it a reality. Today, her innovations continue to connect people, empower communities, and shape the way we communicate in a digital world.
As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor Dr. Marian R. Croak, a true trailblazer whose work has changed the world—one connection at a time.