Our Bureau
Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara University has announced to honor Jayshree V. Ullal an alumna of the university with an honorary Doctor of Engineering degree at the University’s 2025 undergraduate commencement ceremony.
On June 14, the University will host the largest of its commencement ceremonies—for undergraduate students from the College of Arts and Sciences, the Leavey School of Business, and the School of Engineering. The speaker will be Jayshree V. Ullal M.S. ’86, CEO and chairperson of Arista Networks, a pioneering leader in the technology industry who has been widely recognized for her strategic vision and leadership.
Ullal will share remarks at the undergraduate commencement ceremony on June 14 before more than 1,400 graduating students, their friends, and their families.
Born in London and raised in New Delhi, India, Ullal moved to the United States for higher education, earning her bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from San Francisco State University and a master’s degree in engineering management from Santa Clara University. She began her career at AMD and later joined Crescendo Communications, which was acquired by Cisco Systems, where she played a crucial role in the success of the company’s Catalyst switching business.
In 2008, Ullal was appointed CEO of Arista Networks, a company specializing in cloud networking solutions. Under her leadership, Arista has grown into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise, redefining data center networking with its cutting-edge technology. She successfully led the company through its IPO in 2014, positioning Arista as a dominant force in the industry. Throughout her tenure, Ullal has earned accolades, including E&Y’s “Entrepreneur of the Year,” Barron’s “World’s Best CEOs,” and Fortune’s “Top 20 Business Persons.” She was named “Global Indian of the Year” by The Economic Times and recognized twice as a “Silicon Valley Power 100” by the Silicon Valley Business Journal.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ullal champions diversity in tech and actively supports women in leadership roles. She serves on multiple advisory boards and is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of engineers and entrepreneurs. She has also been recognized for her philanthropic efforts, including establishing a foundation with her husband to support cancer research, social services, and hunger relief in India.
In 2013, Ullal received the Santa Clara University School of Engineering Distinguished Engineering Alumni Award. The highest honor bestowed by the School of Engineering, it recognizes graduates whose accomplishments in their professions, communities, and University service have set them apart. She continues to inspire through her commitment to innovation, leadership, and social impact.
