Thirty years. What were you doing 30 years ago? Were you graduating from college? From high school? Were you starting your first career? Were you born yet? Thirty years is obviously going to mean different things to different people.

Here at Cisco, we're celebrating 30 years. Thirty years of technology. Thirty years of innovation. Thirty years of growth. And while it may not have been a part of our original vision tochange the way the world works, lives, plays, and learns,we've certainly evolved-making that mantra a part of our DNA. We're also saying goodbye to our CEO John Chambers, who has led us through the last 20 years, and welcoming new CEO Chuck Robbins to carry the torch and lead us into our next chapter.

Our 30 years have not been without struggles or challenges. We've seen the rise and fall of other companies. We've walked among the giants and startups of the Silicon Valley, a region that has grown into an economic powerhouse for change. And, today-at this moment-we're not only surviving, we're thriving.

Our success means more than good things for Cisco. Ultimately, it amplifies our ability to change the world.

Cisco Networking Academy, our longest-running and largest Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, has helped more than 5.5 million people develop IT skills and launch careers since 1997.

We are blessed with so much at Cisco, and another part of our DNA is addressing global problems. It's a part of our values and a part of our culture. Through human collaboration and networked connections, we have the capability to transform lives and communities. For example, when we empower individuals to become more economically independent, they are better able to support their families and make contributions to their communities, leading to stronger economies. When we offer people access to training and education, they learn skills that can mean the difference between poverty and success. These are just a couple of focus areas that I'm proud to be a part of. It's the commitment of our people and our leadership that enables us to do amazing things.

We have a 30-year history of making an impact on society and the planet, and I encourage you to explore ways you can, too. The past three decades have held some amazing transformations, but more important thanlooking backat what's been done islooking forwardto ask, "What can I do today to help the world for tomorrow?"

By connecting everything and innovating everywhere, we can benefit everyone. Watch this blog and follow Cisco CSR on Twitter as we continue to explore ways to multiply impact and bring positive change to our world.