Mom.
Educator.
Community Advocate.
Public Servant.
I grew up in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois, as the daughter of Indian immigrants who believed deeply in education, service, and community.
The saying “It takes a village to raise a child” has always meant a great deal to me. I was fortunate to grow up surrounded by people who believed in me, and I’ve tried to carry that same spirit of giving back throughout my life.
My husband, Shobhit, and I have called Naperville home for 16 years. It’s where we’ve raised our two boys, built wonderful friendships, and hope to one day retire in the community we love.
My Experience in Education and Public Service
I’m a Principal Lecturer in Communications at North Central College, where I also serve as Faculty Director of the Center for the Advancement of Faculty Excellence and Director of the Speaking Center.
Before joining City Council, I served on the Indian Prairie School District 204 Board of Education, including as Secretary and Vice President. During my time on the Board, we navigated the pandemic and redistricting, developed a five-year strategic plan, expanded student mental health services, and helped pass a referendum with 73% voter support.
In September 2025, I was honored to be appointed to Naperville City Council as the first woman of color to serve in this role, a responsibility I take seriously and am deeply grateful for. Since then, I’ve worked on issues that will shape our city’s future, including development, energy, housing, public safety, and infrastructure. I’m particularly proud of my work examining the proposed data center and helping develop a vision for Naperville’s energy future that balances reliability, sustainability, affordability, flexibility, and local control.
Through these experiences, I’ve learned that leadership requires listening, working together, and making difficult decisions, even when the answers aren’t always clear.
Beyond Public Service
Outside of teaching and serving on Council, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, watching movies, and sharing my love of Indian dance through teaching at the Naperville Park District.
I earned my bachelor’s degree in communication and political science from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, my master’s degree in communication from Illinois State University, and my law degree from DePaul University.
I'm grateful to call Naperville home and even more grateful for the opportunity to serve the community that means so much to my family.
