Purdue Asian American and Asian Resource and Cultural Center to feature Rupal Thanawala as keynote speaker

Rupal Thanawala (Photo provided) Download image

Purdue will welcome Rupal Thanawala, a business and digital strategy executive, as the keynote speaker for the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month celebration. Thanawala will offer her insights on the Asian American experience in Indiana.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will be held 6-7 p.m. April 12 at Stewart Center’s Loeb Playhouse (networking starts at 5:30 p.m.). Those interested in attending are encouraged to register online.

The Purdue Asian American and Asian Resource and Cultural Center (AAARCC) is presenting the event as part of its monthlong celebration to recognize the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. The event is being held in collaboration with the Purdue Foundation Student Board, the Roger C. Stewart Leadership & Professional Development Department and Purdue Graduate Student Government.

"Our theme this year is Asian/Pacific/Americans in Indiana and the Midwest,” says Pamela K. Sari, director of the AAARCC. “The AAARCC is excited to present Rupal Thanawala as our keynote speaker for the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month celebration. Her insights and expertise about Asian experiences in Indiana as both a community leader and a business leader will undoubtedly inspire and inform our community."

Thanawala is the CEO/managing director of Trident Systems and president of the Asian American Alliance Inc. She has over 25 years of experience leading large-scale global business transformation, mergers and acquisitions and divestiture, cybersecurity, digital innovation and operational excellence projects. Thanawala is passionate about uplifting her community and serves on the board of the Asian American Alliance to champion causes related to diversity, inclusion and equality; education and STEM; technology; and health care.

The event will also feature performances by Purdue Taal, Purdue Philharmonic Orchestra and the AAARCC Lion Dance Team.

“This event is a great opportunity for individuals to learn about the achievements, struggles, and contributions of Asian Pacific Americans,” Sari says. “It also serves as an opportunity to explore unique cultural traditions and celebrate the distinct characteristics that make each individual and group special.

“Celebrating APA Heritage Month is essential in promoting unity and cultural appreciation. All members of the Purdue community are invited to attend to gain knowledge and appreciation for a community that has played a significant role in shaping our society.”