Executive Board

Prakash Kopparapu
President

Dhriti Chatterjee
​Vice-President 

​My name is Dhriti Chatterjee, and I’ve proudly called Iowa home since 2007. I live in Waukee with my husband, our son—currently a sophomore at the University of Iowa—and our youngest family member, a spirited three-year-old four-legged boy. I work at Corteva Agriscience and have had the honor of serving on the Board of Directors for the Indo-American Association of Iowa (IAAI) for nearly a decade. Through IAAI, I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to help organize community-centered events that celebrate our rich heritage and traditions—such as our Spring Festival, Yoga Camps, and New Year’s Eve gatherings.
IAAI also partners with the Consulate General of India in Chicago to bring valuable services to our local community, including hosting consular camps right here in Iowa.
It is a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated and passionate team, all united by a single mission: to serve and uplift our community. I look forward to continuing to build connections, celebrate culture, and make a positive impact.

Nishant Kumar
Treasurer

Iowa has been my home since 2004, and from the moment I arrived, I've been proud to be actively involved in serving our community. I believe strongly in the value of giving back, and I’ve dedicated my time and energy to initiatives that support the well-being of those around us. I'm excited to bring this same passion for service and accountability to my role as Treasurer, ensuring that IAAI's financial resources are managed responsibly and effectively to support our shared goals.

Board of Directors

Janani Padmanabhan

This is Janani Padmanaban. Iowa has become a home for me since 2017. I had an opportunity to serve as the president of Iowa Tamil Association for the year 2022- 2023. This provided me a great opportunity to connect with the community and promote our culture. I am honored now to be one of the IAAI Board director. This again gives me a wonderful opportunity to give something back to the community and stay connected to the roots.

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Dr. Pavan Kumar

I have been resident of Iowa from 2019. I strongly believe in power of community, cultural values, and celebrating the traditions. I have started working for the community by participating and volunteering with MKS, HTCC and IAAI. I served as a Mayura Kannada Sangha (MKS) co-chair during 2002-23. Indian  community stands as a shining example of cultural strength and unity. I’ m committed to playing my role in nurturing that spirit being Board of Director. I look forward to building a stronger and vibrant association with your support.

Pooja Kumar

Iowa has been my home since 2013. I come from a family deeply rooted in community service and the belief in giving back to society. This value has left a lasting impression on me, and I carry the same passion for contributing to the community. I believe community service not only fosters self-esteem but also strengthens the fabric of society. It brings me immense joy to see a community thrive and to know that, in some small way, I’ve contributed to its growth. Serving as an IAAI board member allows me the privilege of giving back to the Indo-American community while also providing a platform to celebrate, promote, and showcase our rich Indian culture.

Baljit Singh Virdi

I am Baljit Singh Virdi, a long-time resident of Iowa for over 25 years and a technology professional at Wells Fargo, where I have worked for the past 20 years. Alongside my professional journey, I have been deeply committed to community service and civic engagement through various leadership roles across the state.
Since 2020, I have served as a C3 Board Member of the Interfaith Alliance of Iowa, promoting diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect among Iowa’s diverse faith communities. I also serve as a Global Diversity Educator, leading sessions for high school and college students on cultural awareness, inclusive values, and interfaith understanding.
My involvement further includes serving as a Board Director of the Indo-American Association of Iowa (IAAI) and as an Executive Member of the Iowa Sikh Association (Gurudwara Sahib). In these roles, I actively support organizational leadership, coordinate community events, manage finances, and oversee financial planning and reporting.
I have also had the opportunity to contribute as a panelist in faith-based discussions, speaker at U.S. Department of Justice forums, and trainer for the Des Moines Police Department Training Academy, all aimed at fostering cultural competency and constructive dialogue between communities and institutions.
Through these efforts, I remain committed to building bridges, strengthening cross-cultural understanding, and contributing to the overall well-being of our community and the state of Iowa.
It is a privilege to work alongside dedicated individuals who share a common purpose: to serve and uplift our community. With your continued support, I look forward to building a stronger, more vibrant, and inclusive future for all.