[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 96 (Monday, June 8, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E539-E540]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING SIVARAMAKRISHNAN ``SOMA'' SOMASEGAR

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. SUZAN K. DelBENE

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 8, 2026

  Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life 
and legacy of Sivaramakrishnan ``Soma'' Somasegar. Soma was an 
incredible technologist, entrepreneur, leader, and friend in our 
community.
  Born and raised in southern India, Soma came to the United States to 
attend Louisiana State University. In 1989, he began his career at 
Microsoft. Soma played a critical role in Windows NT, one of the most 
important projects in Microsoft's history. Through his remarkable 
management skills, dedication, and

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work ethic, he rose to senior leadership at Microsoft, ultimately 
serving as Senior Vice President until 2015. I had the joy of getting 
to know him during our time at Microsoft together. His infectious smile 
and warm presence brought energy to every room he entered.
  After leaving Microsoft, Soma devoted himself to supporting the next 
generation of entrepreneurs as a managing director at Madrona Venture 
Group, where he guided countless startups and helped strengthen our 
region's innovation ecosystem.
  Beyond his professional achievements, Soma was deeply committed to 
his community. As the proud cofounder of the Seattle Orcas, he helped 
bring professional cricket to the Pacific Northwest and shared his love 
of the sport with many in our region. He was also a passionate advocate 
for women's empowerment, supporting organizations at every level that 
worked to expand equity and opportunity.
  But above all, Soma's greatest joy was his family. His wife, Akila, 
and two daughters were the center of his world. He spoke of them often 
with great admiration, gratitude, and boundless pride. Everything he 
accomplished was grounded in love for them. To know Soma was to know 
how much they shaped him, supported him, and inspired him. It is their 
strength, love, and example that carry forward the legacy of a man who 
gave so much to his community, his colleagues, and his country.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and 
remembering Soma's remarkable legacy. His family, friends, and 
colleagues will cherish his kindness and wisdom for years to come.

                          ____________________