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Illinois Tech’s own Sejal Vaishnav (CS ’00, M.B.A. ’05) was recently named one of the 50 leading tech executives shaping the future of higher education by a recognition that caught her completely by surprise but is no surprise to those who have seen her impact firsthand. 

As Illinois Tech’s Chief Information Officer, Vaishnav leads the charge in modernizing the university’s technology infrastructure advancing cloud innovation, data strategy, security, and digital transformation to enhance student and faculty experiences. But for her, this achievement isn’t just personal; it’s about the team. “This honor reflects the collective efforts of my team,” Vaishnav says. “They are the ones driving change, and together, we’re building a stronger Illinois Tech.” 

Under her leadership, Illinois Tech has launched major high-impact initiatives that directly benefit students, faculty, and alumni, including a new university portal for improved digital engagement, cloud transformation with Amazon Web Services, cutting edge data strategy, next-gen tools for the university’s Enrollment Services, improving security, and transitioning from Google’s business suite to Microsoft 365. 

But beyond technology, Vaishnav believes in empowering people. 

“Innovation comes from experimentation,” she says. “If we don’t take risks, we’re just maintaining the status quo. True progress happens when we learn, adapt, and push forward.” 

As an Illinois Tech alumna who began her journey as a student worker in Office of Technology Services, Vaishnav has a deep, personal connection to the university. “Illinois Tech shaped my career and gave me the foundation to lead,” she says. “Now, it’s my mission to give back by building a tech ecosystem that supports the next generation of leaders.” 

For Illinois Tech alumni, her story is a powerful reminder that our university’s legacy is built by those who continue to innovate and lead. Whether you’re in tech, business, law, or engineering—you are part of this journey. 

Join Vaishnav and fellow alumni in shaping the future of Illinois Tech. Stay connected, get involved, and help drive innovation forward.