Janet Yellen's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Janet Yellen.

Janet Louise Yellen is a prominent American economist with a distinguished career in public service and academia. She notably served as the 78th United States Secretary of the Treasury (2021-2025) and Chair of the Federal Reserve (2014-2018), becoming the first woman to hold both positions. Prior to these roles, she led the White House Council of Economic Advisers. Yellen currently holds a professorship at the University of California, Berkeley, solidifying her influence in economic policy and thought.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1963: Graduated as Valedictorian

In 1963, Janet Yellen graduated as the valedictorian of her class at Fort Hamilton High School.

1985: Received Teaching Award & Promoted to Full Professor

In 1985, Janet Yellen received the Haas School's outstanding teaching award and also became a full professor at Berkeley-Haas.

1988: Received Teaching Award

In 1988, Janet Yellen earned the Haas School's outstanding teaching award for the second time.

1992: Named Bernard T. Rocca Jr. Professor

In 1992, Janet Yellen was named the Bernard T. Rocca Jr. Professor of International Business and Trade.

August 12, 1994: Appointed to Federal Reserve Board of Governors

On August 12, 1994, Janet Yellen was officially appointed to a 14-year term on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, making her the fourth female governor and marking the first time two women were on the Board simultaneously.

1999: Appointed Eugene E. and Catherine M. Trefethen Professor

In 1999, Janet Yellen was appointed the Eugene E. and Catherine M. Trefethen Professor of Business Administration and Professor of Economics.

2006: Awarded Title of Professor Emeritus at UC Berkeley

In 2006, Janet Yellen was awarded the title of professor emeritus at UC Berkeley.

2014: Appointed Chair of the Federal Reserve

In 2014, Janet Yellen became the Chair of the Federal Reserve, a historic achievement as the first woman to hold the position.

January 25, 2021: Confirmed as Secretary of the Treasury

On January 25, 2021, Janet Yellen was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Secretary of the Treasury.

December 2021: Debt Ceiling Increase Signed into Law

In December 2021, President Biden signed a debt ceiling increase into law, averting a U.S. default. The legislation covered the government's financial commitments beyond the 2022 midterm elections.

2021: Became Secretary of the Treasury

In 2021, Janet Yellen became the 78th United States Secretary of the Treasury, marking a significant milestone in her career as the first woman to hold the position.

June 3, 2023: Debt Limit Suspended

On June 3, 2023, President Biden signed into law bipartisan congressional legislation suspending the public debt limit through his first term, resolving the ongoing debt-ceiling crisis.