Community Impact and Advocacy with Cisco VETS
3 Minute Read · 5 Minute Listen
After serving active duty in the Air Force , I didn't always feel like my military experience translated into something people understood or valued. This feeling followed me into my civilian career at Cisco. Nobody was unkind about it — it just wasn't part of the conversation.
This search for allyship led me to lead the global Cisco VETS Inclusive Community. As a People Leader, I wanted to help build a space with the kind of support and advocacy I was seeking early in my career.
The most meaningful part of my work with VETS has been mentoring veteran service members and helping connect them to opportunities across the organization. About a year ago, I met Dylan , a VETS member. Through mentoring him, I learned about his work, approach, and character — quickly gaining the kind of insights that usually take months of working together.
When Dylan applied for a leadership role in my organization, I reached out to the hiring manager — not as a favor, but because I knew Dylan’s brand and body of work in a way that an interview never could have captured. Our shared experiences and time together allowed me to speak to how he truly operates, not just how he presents himself.
Dylan got the role, and he's been excellent. This is just one example of the difference the VETS network can make for Cisco's veterans. It's not just about representation — it's about providing real advocates who understand our value and the unique skills we bring to the company. I didn't have that when I needed it most, and providing it for others is exactly why I do this work.
A month of meaningful action
Every year, VETS supports Cisco’s commitment to social impact while demonstrating resilience and service through its annual May Marathon — a month-long initiative that turns collective efforts into tangible change. This year's results were a powerful display of commitment, proving that when Cisconians unite, the impact is profound.
The May Marathon was built on three pillars: Movement, education, and remembrance. Here’s a look at this year’s outcomes:
- Movement: 4,750 miles were logged, with an average of 59 people staying active each week.
- Education: Over 800 employees came together across six Lunch and Learns featuring seven non-profit partners. Thanks to Cisco’s generous $10 per attendee donation match, VETS generated an additional $8,000 for our causes.
- Remembrance: Through the "Flowers for the Fallen" initiative, volunteers across eight locations visited local sites to honor the service and sacrifice of U.S. veterans.
By blending physical activity with giving and acts of remembrance, VETS has once again shown what it means to lead through resilience. Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making the 2026 May Marathon a resounding success.
By the numbers
The collective efforts of the VETS Inclusive Community resulted in a remarkable month of giving:
- Total funds raised: Over $40,000
- Total volunteer hours: Over 1,000
- Total miles logged: Over 4,750
- Total Lunch and Learn attendees: Over 800 people
The new fiscal year is the perfect time to get involved with VETS. Join our FY27 Annual Kick-Off Meeting on August 20 at 8 a.m. PT (employees only). We'll outline our community goals for FY27 and host a fireside chat with a special guest veteran speaker.
I hope to see you there and encourage you to join our efforts by engaging with the additional community resources listed. Together, we can continue to power an inclusive future for all.
How Cisco Employees Can Get Involved: Join the VETS Inclusive Community
Whether you’re a veteran, military spouse, reservist, or ally at Cisco, you are welcome! Join us to connect with peers, access career support, and help shape an inclusive Cisco for all.
- How to join: Follow these instructions on the Inclusive Communities page. You’ll be added to our Webex spaces and mailing lists within 24-48 hours.
- Show your VETS pride: Add an email banner or badge to your profile.
- Explore more: Visit our internal VETS Global SharePoint site for additional resources and check out our external Military and Veterans site to learn about veteran career pathways.
Employee resources
- Explore our Inclusive Communities and engage in over 25 employee resource groups and networks
- Well-being resources are available on the Global Wellbeing SharePoint site
- Contact the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to work through transitions, work-related stress, and other concerns
- Evolve your personal development with Career and Learning resources to bring out the power of you
Related links
Related Content
