Candidate Profile: Divya Dorairajan, Ridgefield Board of Education

RIDGEFIELD, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Ridgefield and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Ridgefield Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Unaffiliated/registered write-in candidate Divya Dorairajan is running for election to the Ridgefield Board of Education. She holds an MBA from SIMS in India.

What is your occupation?

15 years of expertise in HR, recruitment, and DE&I within various industries in both India and the US. I've also worked in the global relocation space as a Cross Cultural Specialist and as a Language Consultant.

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

I was born and raised in Chennai, India, and have had the privilege of calling four different countries on two continents home. Now, as a mother to a lively nearly 12-year-old daughter, my husband and I are delighted to have called Ridgefield, Connecticut our home for the past nine years. Our household is a hub of creativity and activity, and I'm deeply engaged in various aspects of our town's vibrant community.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

I was appointed as a member of the Ridgefield Board of Education on Sep 2022 and will be completing my term November 2023.

Why are you seeking this office?

Ridgefield is a wonderfully diverse town, with individuals from all walks of life finding a home here. However, our town's government and leadership sometimes fail to mirror this diversity. A diverse Board of Education is better equipped to advocate for the needs of every student. I believe that diversity is essential for a strong and vibrant community.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

lack of apolitical integrity in our local governing boards, I intend to stand up to special interests and put the students first, encourage collaboration and consensus building and promote civic engagement

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

The key distinctions between myself and the other candidates are rooted in our backgrounds and priorities. Unlike some of the candidates, I maintain an apolitical and non-partisan stance. My singular focus is on ensuring the best possible education for our children, free from any special political agendas or personal conflicts of interest. This commitment is driven by my role as a parent, allowing me to approach the position with a dedicated focus on the well-being and educational growth of our students.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

I am committed to fostering a more inclusive and diverse educational environment. This includes advocating for policies and initiatives that promote diversity among students, educators, and staff, as well as creating an inclusive curriculum that reflects the experiences and perspectives of all members of our community. I recognize the importance of maintaining a respectful and inclusive community, free from harassment and bullying. Creating a safe and supportive environment is crucial for the well-being of our students and families. By addressing these issues, I aim to contribute to the creation of a more inclusive, respectful, and equitable educational system for all members of our community.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Be the change that you wish to see in the world- Mahatma Gandhi's quote

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am honored to serve on the Board of Directors of Ridgefield a Better Chance, an organization that provides invaluable educational opportunities to young women of color and stands firmly for social justice and equity. Additionally, my daughter and I have recently become proud members of the National Charity League, further deepening our commitment to giving back to the community.