Strengthened leadership aims to expand support for one of the world’s largest non-profit education networks
| BOSTON, MA, UNITED STATES: Vidya Bharati Foundation of America (Vidya Bharati USA), the U.S.-based support organization for one of the world’s largest non-profit educational movements, has announced the reconstitution of its U.S. Board of Directors. As part of this strategic renewal, the organization has appointed long-time adviser Satish Jha of Boston and Los Angeles–based businessman Anil Parekh as new board members. The reconstituted board will be chaired by Dr. Surender Garg. The refreshed board brings together accomplished professionals and community leaders committed to advancing Vidya Bharati’s mission of providing value-based, accessible education across India. The newly constituted U.S. Board includes: Dr. Surender Garg (Detroit) – Chairman Dr. Yashpal Arya (New York) Suresh Gupta (Florida) Ashok Danda (Houston) Satish Jha (Boston) Anil Parekh (Los Angeles) Vidya Bharati is globally recognized for its expansive and impactful educational footprint. Through its network in India, the organization operates nearly 14,000 schools across all Indian states and 659 districts, supported by more than 150,000 teachers and staff. This scale places Vidya Bharati among the largest non-profit education systems in the world. A defining feature of Vidya Bharati’s model is its self-sustaining approach. The organization does not receive financial support from the government. Instead, land for schools is donated locally, infrastructure is built through community and donor contributions, and operating expenses are covered through modest fees carefully calibrated to local economic conditions. This model has enabled Vidya Bharati to deliver quality education to millions while remaining deeply rooted in community participation and accountability. Vidya Bharati schools currently educate more than 1.2 percent of India’s K–12 student population. Alumni from these institutions consistently demonstrate strong academic outcomes, with students securing approximately half of the top ten ranks in various state board examinations—a testament to the organization’s emphasis on academic rigor alongside character development. The reconstitution of the U.S. Board is intended to further strengthen engagement with the Indian diaspora and expand support for Vidya Bharati’s educational initiatives. The addition of Satish Jha and Anil Parekh brings complementary expertise in leadership, strategy, and community engagement, reinforcing the board’s ability to guide long-term growth and outreach efforts. “I am thankful to the leadership of Vidya Bharati for inviting me to serve on its U.S. Board,” said Satish Jha. “I look forward to contributing in every possible way to help children learn at the frontiers of their aspirations and to deepen the connection between the organization and the Indian-American community.” With its renewed leadership structure, Vidya Bharati USA aims to scale awareness, mobilize resources, and build enduring partnerships that support educational excellence rooted in Indian values. The organization continues to invite supporters, educators, and community members across the United States to participate in and contribute to its mission. |
About Vidya Bharati USA
Vidya Bharati USA is the American arm of Vidya Bharati, supporting one of the world’s largest non-profit educational networks. The organization works with donors and community partners in the United States to advance access to quality, value-based education for millions of students across India. For more information, visit www.vidyabhartiusa.org or contact info@vidyabhartiusa.org.
