Harper College Trustee Candidate
Building Stronger Communities by Expanding Access to Education and Workforce Development
Why I'm running
Serving as a Trustee and public official is one of my greatest honors. As a current Trustee, I have been working to expand access to education, create pathways to opportunity, and ensure that every student has the support and resources they need to pursue their dreams. I am committed to continuing this important work for our students, families, and communities.
When I look out and see thousands of students working to change the trajectory of their lives, I am reminded of my own journey. I see hope, resilience, determination, and the future of our communities. Education is one of the most powerful tools we have to break barriers, create opportunity, and uplift generations.
Building a better world starts one student, one family, and one community at a time. Stronger communities go hand in hand with workforce development, and that is exactly what Harper College delivers, with strong connections to local industry and high job placement rates for its graduates.
I believe every person deserves the opportunity to shine their inner light and reach their fullest potential. There is nothing more meaningful than helping people believe their dreams are possible and ensuring they have the opportunities to make those dreams a reality. It is a privilege to serve, and I look forward to continuing this work on behalf of our students and our community.
— Bijal Chaturvedi
Background
My journey has been rooted in education, healthcare, and public service, driven by a commitment to creating opportunities and building stronger communities.
As a first generation immigrant and the first in my family to go to college, I know firsthand what it means to chase a dream with nothing but hard work and belief to carry you forward. That journey shaped who I am today. It taught me resilience, the value of opportunity, and the importance of never giving up, even when the path forward isn't clear. Everything I have achieved, from my education to my career to my service as a Trustee, is a testament to what is possible when someone believes in the dream and puts in the work to make it real. It is that same belief I bring to every student and family I serve today.
A career built on equipping students with the skills, confidence, and pathways they need to succeed.
Committed to transparent governance, community voice, and decisions that put students first.
For more than 22 years, I have provided anesthesia care to patients, dedicating my career to delivering safe, compassionate, and high quality healthcare.
Assistant Professor at Rosalind Franklin University, preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
A proud resident of the Harper College district, with deep roots and a lasting commitment to this community's future.
My commitment to service extends around the world, providing humanitarian and healthcare support to underserved communities across Africa, Asia, and Central America and working to expand access to care and improve lives.
Platform
01
Removing financial, geographic, and systemic barriers so every community member can pursue learning, access career opportunities, and build clear pathways for career development.
02
Aligning Harper College's programs with the skills employers need, so graduates are ready to thrive in the careers of today and tomorrow.
03
Building bridges to industry and driving economic growth by connecting Harper College's programs with local employers and regional opportunity.
04
Ensuring Harper College uses taxpayer and tuition dollars wisely, with sound budgeting, transparency, and accountability so resources go directly toward student success.
05
Incorporating the latest technological advances in AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity into accessible job placements and training for students.
06
Investing in the whole person, not just the degree, by supporting wrap-around services, mentorship, and community partnerships.
Get involved
Vote April 6, 2027
Every campaign is built on community. Follow along, share her story, and help elect a trustee who puts students and families first.