Federation of Indian Associations Chicago (1980) elects Executive Committee

Outgoing President Nitin Patel, welcomed attendees and delivered a brief report on FIA’s impactful accomplishments in 2024. He provided an overview of the year’s activities, including major cultural events, social programs, and community services spearheaded by FIA Chicago. The meeting also featured the introduction of directors and delegates representing the more than 60 member-organizations under the FIA umbrella.

The agenda covered the 2024 financial report presentation, adoption of proposed amendments to the Articles of Association and Bylaws, and an open floor for suggestions and community proposals. A hard copy of FIA Bylaws Amendment 3.0, passed on December 22, 2024, was distributed. The General Election for the Executive Committee was then held in accordance with FIA bylaws, overseen by Nitin Patel, Secretary Kruti Pandya, and Trustees Director Dr. Bharat Barai.

With no opposing nominations submitted, Hemant Patel’s panel was unanimously elected to lead FIA Chicago for the 2025–2026 term. The newly elected Executive Committee includes: Hemant Patel – President., Anil Singh – Executive Vice President., Joy (Dipen) Shah – Vice President., Shailesh Rajput – Vice President., Rohit Joshi – Vice President., Dr. Avi Verma – Secretary., Arvind Ankleshvaria – Joint Secretary., Amar Upadhyay – Treasurer., Roshan Patel – Joint Treasurer

The Board of Trustees for 2025 remains unchanged, ensuring continuity and experienced guidance. Active Trustees include:Ajay Agnihotri, Anil K. Pillai, Babu Marsha Patel, Bhagubhai Patel, Bhailal Patel, Dr. Bharat Barai (Trustee-Director), Dr. Indrajit Patel, Dr. Jayanti G. Patel (JG Patel), Harish Bhatt, Hetal Patel, Hina Trivedi, Iftekhar Shareef, Kanti N. Patel, Kanti S. Patel, Minhaj Akhtar, Niranjan Shah, Prahlad Patil, Rajesh Patel, Rakesh Malhotra, Rashmi Patel, Sanhita Agnihotri, Satish Gabhawala, Sohan Joshi.Nitin Patel    (EX-OFFICIO)

Hemant Patel, a seasoned technology entrepreneur and community leader with over 35 years of global experience, outlined his vision in his acceptance speech. He emphasized the importance of unity, service, and inclusion, saying, “As I look towards my upcoming term, I have several goals I want to accomplish. Firstly, I want to increase the size of FIA Chicago. Indian Americans are pillars of the community all around the Chicagoland area—yet we are disconnected. Bringing more of the Indian diaspora under the FIA umbrella will strengthen our ability to effect positive change. Secondly, we want to address the most pressing needs of our community. Whether it’s providing education about government programs or holding an OCI camp—we want to be of service. Lastly, I hope to promote more Indian events that highlight our diverse cultures, religions, and regions, not just for us, but for the next generation of Indian Americans.” Under his leadership, the new FIA Executive Committee plans to: Expand membership outreach and community representation; Open a dedicated FIA office for day-to-day communication and public assistance; Launch regular health clinics and support services related to immigration, Medicare, and public aid; Promote youth engagement and cultural exchange through robust event programming

He also emphasized the importance of bylaws, stating that no organization can flourish without well-thought-out bylaws and their proper adoption.

The new President also expressed gratitude to outgoing President Nitin Patel, as well as past leaders Rajesh Patel and Rakesh Malhotra, for their dedication and accomplishments.

Upcoming FIA Chicago Events: The newly elected committee has already announced a packed calendar of community events for year 2025: Meet and Greet – May 26 at 6 PM, Bloomingdale., International Yog Day – June 22 at Dee Park, Des Plaines., CG Office Yoga Collaboration – Volunteers needed., FIA Picnic – Early August., Independence Day Flag Hoisting – August 15, Daley Plaza., Independence Day Car Rally – August 16., Independence Day Gala – August 22 (Theme: Patriotic)., FIA Parade – August 24 ., Independence Day. Digital Souvenir., OCI camp, Creating FIA Facebook Page For announcements and outreach.

“This is a proud moment for all of us,” said Dr. Avi Verma, incoming Secretary. “With renewed energy and teamwork, we aim to deepen FIA’s impact and build a legacy of unity and service for generations to come.”

In a joint statement, the newly elected leadership thanked the FIA trustees, affiliated groups, and community members for their support and reaffirmed their commitment to uphold FIA’s core values, while respecting the Constitution of the United States and the guiding principles of the Association.