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HERNDON, Va., March 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- ST Engineering iDirect, a global leader in satellite communications, today announced the appointment of Sridhar Kuppanna as Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Don Claussen.
Kuppanna previously served as Chief Technology Officer, where he led the development of the company's technology roadmap and product strategy, including advances in cloud‑native, multi‑orbit connectivity, AI‑driven network automation and 5G NTN.
As CEO, Kuppanna will continue to oversee the execution of ST Engineering iDirect's strategy including the company's Intuition-led modernization strategy, execution and delivery, and operational excellence.
ST Engineering iDirect, a subsidiary of ST Engineering, is a global leader in satellite communications (satcom) providing technology and solutions that enable its customers to expand their business, differentiate their services and optimize their satcom networks. With over 40 years of delivering innovation focused on solving satellite's most critical economic and technology challenges we are committed to shaping the future of how the world connects. The product portfolio, branded iDirect, represents the highest standards in performance, efficiency and reliability, making it possible for its customers to deliver the best satcom connectivity experience anywhere in the world. ST Engineering iDirect is a leader in key industries including mobility, broadcast and military/government. In 2007, iDirect Government was formed to better serve the U.S. government and defense communities. For more information visit www.idirect.net.
HERNDON, Va., March 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- ST Engineering iDirect, a global leader in satellite communications, today announced the appointment of Sridhar Kuppanna as Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Don Claussen.
Kuppanna previously served as Chief Technology Officer, where he led the development of the company's technology roadmap and product strategy, including advances in cloud‑native, multi‑orbit connectivity, AI‑driven network automation and 5G NTN.
As CEO, Kuppanna will continue to oversee the execution of ST Engineering iDirect's strategy including the company's Intuition-led modernization strategy, execution and delivery, and operational excellence.
ST Engineering iDirect, a subsidiary of ST Engineering, is a global leader in satellite communications (satcom) providing technology and solutions that enable its customers to expand their business, differentiate their services and optimize their satcom networks. With over 40 years of delivering innovation focused on solving satellite's most critical economic and technology challenges we are committed to shaping the future of how the world connects. The product portfolio, branded iDirect, represents the highest standards in performance, efficiency and reliability, making it possible for its customers to deliver the best satcom connectivity experience anywhere in the world. ST Engineering iDirect is a leader in key industries including mobility, broadcast and military/government. In 2007, iDirect Government was formed to better serve the U.S. government and defense communities. For more information visit www.idirect.net.
** This press release is distributed by PR Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **
ST Engineering iDirect Appoints Sridhar Kuppanna as Chief Executive Officer
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Global screen icon, former Governor of California, Emmy-winning producer and seven-time Mr Olympia recognised for his contributions to public service, environmental action and the arts
BELFAST, Northern Ireland , March 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ulster University today awarded an Honorary Doctorate to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger at its Belfast campus in recognition of his contributions to public service, environmental advocacy and the arts.
Born in Austria, Dr Schwarzenegger built an extraordinary career across sport, film and public life, later serving as the 38th Governor of California and championing environmental action, civic leadership and philanthropy.
Dr Schwarzenegger's visit to Ulster University Belfast carries a personal significance, coming 60 years after his first visit to Northern Ireland.
From Ulster University, Dr Arnold Schwarzenegger said:
"Education is the foundation – it is a great springboard for your future. The more knowledge you have, the better you become, whether that's in academia, business, film, or in sport. That is why institutions like Ulster University are so important – this is where you build your knowledge, your confidence, and your future. There is no better place to do that than at a reputable university like this."
Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University, said:
"Few individuals have shaped global culture across sport, film and public life like Dr Arnold Schwarzenegger.
"From young athlete finding his voice in Belfast to global leader, actor and activist, Arnold has built a global platform and used it to champion the environment, advocate for the people of California and support philanthropic causes.
"This is why Dr Schwarzenegger is a true inspiration to our students at Ulster University."
Emmanuel Eze, MA Film and TV Production student, said:
"Arnold's story is really about crossing borders, building resilience and creating opportunity (whether that's film, sport or business). That resonates deeply with my own journey from Nigeria to Ulster, and makes me feel like anything is possible."
Dr Schwarzenegger's visit reflects Ulster University's growing role in film and digital storytelling. Through Studio Ulster, a $96 million virtual production complex, alongside the CoSTAR Screen Lab and Ulster Screen Academy, the University is developing graduates for one of the fastest-growing sectors.
The honorary degree, awarded as the USA marks its 250th anniversary, reflects Schwarzenegger's journey as an immigrant who achieved global success across sport, film and public leadership.
Ulster University was voted Times Higher Education's University of the Year in 2024. Find out more at www.ulster.ac.uk
Media contact: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk
Photo - https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2945638/Ulster_University.jpg?p=medium600
Logo - https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2945637/Ulster_University_Logo.jpg?p=medium600
All pictures of today's graduation can be found at the following Ulster University dropbox link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/4rlhfw51yzssadbuvkbtv/AIRISL28ijWxMVpoBBfu2iE/Ulster%20University%20-%20Belfast%20Campus%20-%20Photo%20-%20Video/Photography?dl=0&rlkey=6si38imqrunmhgymy0drq1cp7&subfolder_nav_tracking=1
Global screen icon, former Governor of California, Emmy-winning producer and seven-time Mr Olympia recognised for his contributions to public service, environmental action and the arts
BELFAST, Northern Ireland , March 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ulster University today awarded an Honorary Doctorate to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger at its Belfast campus in recognition of his contributions to public service, environmental advocacy and the arts.
Born in Austria, Dr Schwarzenegger built an extraordinary career across sport, film and public life, later serving as the 38th Governor of California and championing environmental action, civic leadership and philanthropy.
Dr Schwarzenegger's visit to Ulster University Belfast carries a personal significance, coming 60 years after his first visit to Northern Ireland.
From Ulster University, Dr Arnold Schwarzenegger said:
"Education is the foundation – it is a great springboard for your future. The more knowledge you have, the better you become, whether that's in academia, business, film, or in sport. That is why institutions like Ulster University are so important – this is where you build your knowledge, your confidence, and your future. There is no better place to do that than at a reputable university like this."
Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University, said:
"Few individuals have shaped global culture across sport, film and public life like Dr Arnold Schwarzenegger.
"From young athlete finding his voice in Belfast to global leader, actor and activist, Arnold has built a global platform and used it to champion the environment, advocate for the people of California and support philanthropic causes.
"This is why Dr Schwarzenegger is a true inspiration to our students at Ulster University."
Emmanuel Eze, MA Film and TV Production student, said:
"Arnold's story is really about crossing borders, building resilience and creating opportunity (whether that's film, sport or business). That resonates deeply with my own journey from Nigeria to Ulster, and makes me feel like anything is possible."
Dr Schwarzenegger's visit reflects Ulster University's growing role in film and digital storytelling. Through Studio Ulster, a $96 million virtual production complex, alongside the CoSTAR Screen Lab and Ulster Screen Academy, the University is developing graduates for one of the fastest-growing sectors.
The honorary degree, awarded as the USA marks its 250th anniversary, reflects Schwarzenegger's journey as an immigrant who achieved global success across sport, film and public leadership.
Ulster University was voted Times Higher Education's University of the Year in 2024. Find out more at www.ulster.ac.uk
Media contact: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk
Photo - https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2945638/Ulster_University.jpg?p=medium600
Logo - https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2945637/Ulster_University_Logo.jpg?p=medium600
All pictures of today's graduation can be found at the following Ulster University dropbox link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/4rlhfw51yzssadbuvkbtv/AIRISL28ijWxMVpoBBfu2iE/Ulster%20University%20-%20Belfast%20Campus%20-%20Photo%20-%20Video/Photography?dl=0&rlkey=6si38imqrunmhgymy0drq1cp7&subfolder_nav_tracking=1
** This press release is distributed by PR Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **
Arnold Schwarzenegger receives Honorary Doctorate from Ulster University
