About Paras Bhende
Meet My Family
I am grateful to call the Wayzata School District my home, living with my wife, Shephali, and our two incredible daughters, Anika (11th Grade) and Alisha (6th Grade).
We enjoy engaging in shared interests, such as watching sports and movies. These simple pleasures provide us with not only entertainment but precious moments of laughter and heartfelt discussions that create cherished memories that we'll carry with us for a lifetime. Our family values the importance of exploration and adventure. We embark on memorable vacations together, discovering new places, cultures, and experiences. These trips provide relaxation and opportunities for bonding and learning together.
Among our most cherished moments are those spent supporting and cheering on our daughters during their lacrosse and hockey games. Witnessing their growth and achievements fills our hearts with pride, and it brings us immeasurable joy to be there for them at every step of their journey.
Nurtured by the warm embrace of the vibrant Wayzata community, we flourish and strengthen the unbreakable bonds that bind us together as a family.
My Education and Values
As a First Generation American, I arrived in the United States with the same hope shared by countless immigrants—to pursue the American dream.
Born and raised in Mumbai, India, education has always been at the heart of my journey. Guided by my school's timeless motto "Shilam Param Bhushanam" - a Sanskrit verse that means "Character is the Highest Virtue". I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have been shaped by a robust education system and the unwavering support of my family, friends, teachers, and community, all of which played a pivotal role in my personal and professional growth.
As a parent, my heartfelt aspiration is to pass on the same cherished values that my school instilled in me.
My Professional Career and Experience
With a bachelor's degree in Electronics Engineering from Mumbai University, I embarked on a career in Information Technology that eventually brought me to the United States. Over the past 22+ years, I have thrived in diverse leadership roles, currently serving as a Regional Director with a prominent Healthcare tech company. My passion lies in problem-solving for our clients and collaborating with diverse teams to achieve optimal outcomes. I have consistently embraced new challenges outside my comfort zone, relying on my ability to learn quickly and forge effective partnerships with colleagues and stakeholders.
My Non-Profit Experience
Driven by my passion for education, I joined the board of the Chance Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting the education and well-being of underprivileged children in India. Our efforts have positively impacted the lives of over 850 children, and we are committed to extending our reach to support over 1000 children this year. Furthermore, we are actively exploring initiatives in the Twin Cities area to provide vocational training opportunities for underprivileged high schoolers. I proudly serve as the Finance Officer on the Chance Foundation board, channeling my dedication to education into meaningful action.
Website: https://chanceforthem.com/
My Non-Profit Experience
Beyond my professional and philanthropic endeavors, I have actively contributed to the vibrant tapestry of cultural events. Notably, I served as a Cultural committee member for the Marathi Association of MN in 2021 and 2022, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Maharashtra, India. Additionally, we provide educational assistance for those interested in the Marathi language and literature. Last year, I had the honor of co-convening a major convention bid, aimed at bringing the convention to the Twin Cities, further enriching the community's cultural fabric.
Website: https://www.mnmarathi.org/
Involvement with Wayzata Schools
Thanks to Wayzata Schools for welcoming me to the 2023/2024 Wayzata Public Schools Citizens Curriculum, Instruction & Technology Advisory Committee (CITAC). CITAC has been established to function as an advisory committee to the Wayzata Independent School District 284 School Board and Administration on curriculum and technology-related items.