1. Can you provide us with some information about your background? Your education and career?

I grew up in the south suburbs of Chicago. My parents are Indian immigrants, and highly focused on education and hard work. That focus was ingrained in me from a young age and has stayed with me since. My choice of attending UIC for undergraduate education was due to a desire to stay close to family while also wanting exposure to the broad selection of classes the university offers. While I enrolled with the intention of eventually attending medical school, I majored in economics to fulfill a long-held interest in learning more about the topic. Almost immediately, I was hooked! The professors at UIC made the information come to life and ignited my passion for the field. After graduating, I took a job with Smith Barney and continued my education in the evenings and obtained a MA in financial markets from Illinois Institute of Technology. I left Smith Barney to join Ibbotson Associates and continued going to school in the evenings, but shifted back to the economics department at UIC to obtain a MA in economics. I then moved to New York to take a job as an investment consultant with Colonial Consulting, where for 15 years I advised endowments and foundations on how to invest their portfolios. I obtained my doctoral degree while working at Colonial. Seven years ago I left Colonial to join Agility, now Cerity Partners OCIO, as a client portfolio manager. My passion continues to be managing non-profit portfolios and I’m so grateful for the strong education I received at UIC which helps me in fulfilling my passion. 

2. Can you tell us more about how you have stayed connected to the University of Illinois since your time as a student?

There was a large span of time when I wasn’t connected to the University. I reconnected about six years ago when at the AGB (Association of Governing Boards) conference. There I was fortunate to meet Jim Moore (President/CEO of the University of Illinois Foundation) and Karen Golz (Chair Elect of the University of Illinois Foundation Board of Directors). Over time, Karen asked if I would become an advisor to the Investment Policy Committee. I served in that role for four years and was recently was asked to join the Board as a Director. I am thrilled to be part of Board and look forward to the work ahead. My connection to the Foundation has offered me the chance to re-engage with UIC and has provided opportunities to reconnect with the Department of Economics.

3. Giving to the University of Illinois Chicago is clearly important to you. Can you explain what compelled you to give and keep giving? What do you hope your philanthropy accomplishes for the university?

I was fortunate to have educational opportunities, like UIC, that changed the trajectory of my career and opened my eyes to the numerous career paths one can take. I feel strongly that each of us has the duty to help others and “pay if forward.” I hope my philanthropy provides access to students who may not otherwise have it, and also assists the University in maintaining an eye towards excellence in education. 

4. What advice can you share about how to make a lasting impact at the University of Illinois?

Making the initial connection is important. Go back to campus and find different ways to connect. It doesn’t always need to be monetary. Consider giving your time and energy; sometimes that can be as valuable as money. Learn about what the University needs and ways that you can be of service.

5. What is your favorite University of Illinois memory?

There are so many great memories to choose from! When I started my PhD program at UIC, I was one of only two women in the program. The other woman in the program had immigrated from Russia and didn’t have a driver’s license but wanted to learn. Given our work and class schedules, it was difficult to find the time, but we were able to carve out enough time for me to teach her some on the road skills around UIC’s campus.