Gail Evans Obituary: The technology and entertainment worlds are mourning the loss of Gail Evans, the Chief Digital and Technology Officer (CDTO) at Disney Experiences, who passed away unexpectedly following a brief illness. Gail, originally from Orlando, Florida, was a dynamic and visionary leader whose commitment to innovation transformed digital experiences for millions of Disney fans and set new standards in technology and storytelling.
Key Takeaways:
- Gail Evans, CDTO at Disney Experiences, passed away after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and leadership.
- Her career spanned high-level roles at Mercer, Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, and Eastman Kodak, where she led teams and projects that pushed the boundaries of digital transformation.
- Honored with numerous awards, including the Digital Diversity Network’s Phenom Award and the MIT Sloan CIO Leadership Award, Gail was a respected leader and inspiring figure in the tech world.
- Details regarding her funeral arrangements will be shared by her family, allowing loved ones and colleagues to pay tribute to her exceptional life and achievements.
Gail Evans Obituary
Her family shared that Gail passed away surrounded by her loved ones, though the exact cause of her passing has not yet been confirmed. Gail’s incredible career and dedication to advancing digital experiences at Disney have left an indelible mark on both the company and its global fan base.
Gail graduated from the University of Rochester’s Simon Business School and Nazareth University, and her professional journey saw her spearheading numerous groundbreaking projects. As the CDTO at Disney, Gail led a team of technologists, designers, and storytellers who developed popular products such as MagicBand+ and Hey Disney! These offerings, which connected the digital and physical Disney experiences, demonstrated Gail’s unique ability to blend storytelling with technological advancements, creating memorable interactions for families and fans.
Her role at Disney was just one chapter in a career devoted to digital transformation and strategic innovation. Before joining Disney, Gail served as Mercer’s first Chief Digital Officer, pioneering digital growth initiatives. She held other high-ranking positions across multiple industries, including roles at Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, and Bank of America. At Eastman Kodak, she served as the CIO of its Consumer Digital division, further illustrating her influence in shaping the tech industry.
Gail’s exceptional contributions were widely recognized within the industry. In 2019, she was named a finalist for the prestigious MIT Sloan CIO Leadership Award, and she received the Digital Diversity Network’s Phenom Award in 2018, honoring trailblazers in technology and media. She was also recognized as one of the Top 100 Chief Digital Officers by Hot Topics and was celebrated as one of the Top 100 Women in Tech Leaders to Watch in 2023. Her achievements were recently highlighted in Netflix’s documentary series Working: What We Do All Day, and she was an InspiringFifty UK honoree, celebrating her as one of the top women leaders driving results in digital careers.
The Evans family will release details about funeral arrangements and memorial services in the coming days. In the meantime, those who knew her are encouraged to honor Gail’s memory by reflecting on the joy and inspiration she brought to others, her dedication to digital transformation, and her lifelong passion for enhancing the human experience through technology.
