Chitra Aiyar

Chitra Aiyar is a highly respected professional in the fields of law, education, and nonprofit leadership. With a strong foundation built on her academic achievements, Chitra has dedicated her career to advocating for social justice, equity, and empowerment, particularly for marginalized communities. Her educational journey began at the University of California, Berkeley, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies. This interdisciplinary focus equipped her with a deep understanding of socio-economic issues and a commitment to fostering positive change. She then went on to pursue her Doctor of Law (JD) at the prestigious New York University School of Law, where she honed her legal expertise and developed a passion for serving those in need.

Throughout her career, Chitra has held a variety of prominent roles in academia, advocacy, and nonprofit organizations. As an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Baruch College, CUNY School of Professional Studies, Hunter College, and New York Law School, she shares her extensive knowledge with students, guiding the next generation of leaders in understanding the complexities of law and social equity. Her teaching responsibilities reflect her commitment to education and empowerment, ensuring that her students are well-prepared to tackle societal challenges.

Chitra has also made significant contributions to various nonprofit organizations, focusing on gender equity and community development. She formerly served as the Executive Director of the Sadie Nash Leadership Project, where she worked tirelessly to support young women in their leadership development and advocacy efforts. Additionally, her role as a Commissioner at the Commission on Gender Equity allowed her to influence policy and advocate for societal changes that promote equity.

In her consulting roles, including her recent position with Just Futures, Chitra has leveraged her legal skills and leadership experience to provide strategic guidance to nonprofits navigating the challenges brought on by the pandemic. Her innovative approaches and compassionate insights have made a substantial impact on organizations dedicated to social justice and community support. Chitra's previous work as a Senior Staff Attorney at the African Services Committee and Workers' Rights Fellow at Jobs with Justice/Brennan Center for Justice demonstrates her unwavering commitment to workers' rights and immigrant justice.

Her volunteer work as both a board member and volunteer at Andolan - Organizing South Asian Workers has also illustrated her dedication to worker empowerment and advocacy. A testament to her global outlook and commitment to community engagement, she was a Fulbright Scholar at BRAC and a John Gardner Fellow at the Grameen Foundation, where she worked on projects aimed at poverty alleviation and sustainable development.

Chitra Aiyar possesses an impressive array of experiences that spans academia, advocacy, and legal practice. She embodies the spirit of service, coupled with expertise and compassion, making her a prominent figure in her community. Her contributions toward underrepresented groups, especially women and workers, underscore her commitment to fostering a more equitable world.