Lawrence Technological University (LTU) has announced the appointment of Dr. Devesh Misra as Dean of its College of Engineering. Widely regarded as a global authority in engineering, Dr. Misra brings over 40 years of academic excellence, research innovation, and visionary leadership to the role. His career has been defined by advancing groundbreaking discoveries while inspiring future generations of engineers to design, build, and lead with purpose.

Before joining LTU, Dr. Misra served as the Founding Director of the Center for Structural and Functional Materials Research at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He also held key positions at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), where he was a professor in metallurgical, materials, and biomedical engineering.

Dr. Misra earned his Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge and a B.Tech. from the Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University). His professional journey includes influential leadership roles such as Chair and Graduate Director at UTEP, Distinguished Professor at Louisiana, and Deputy Director of India’s Defense Metallurgical Research Laboratory. At every institution, he spearheaded strategic growth, fostered multidisciplinary collaborations, and elevated research visibility and funding.

A prolific innovator, Dr. Misra has authored more than 1,000 peer-reviewed papers, secured millions of dollars in research grants, and holds several U.S. patents. His work spans advanced manufacturing, AI-driven material design, nanotechnology, biomedical advancements, and renewable energy solutions. Stanford University consistently ranks him among the top 2% of scientists globally.

Equally passionate about education, Dr. Misra has mentored hundreds of students across undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral levels. He has launched transformative curricula, established international exchange programs, and built initiatives that empower students with leadership and problem-solving skills for real-world challenges.

Karl Daubman, Interim Provost and University Distinguished Professor at LTU, praised the appointment, stating that Dr. Misra’s global expertise will help shape a new era of innovation and impact for the College of Engineering.

Throughout his career, Dr. Misra has been honored with numerous awards, including fellowship in ASM International and the Institute of Materials (London), the Jerry Silver, Charles Hatchett, and Lee Hsun Awards, as well as recognition as a Distinguished Alumnus of IIT (BHU). He also received the Hind Rattan Award from the Government of India for his outstanding contributions to science and education.

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Pia Dandiya, a proud resident of District 21, daughter of Indian immigrants, a former high school principal and White House fellow who led public sector initiatives at Apple is a new Democratic challenger to the Republican U.S. Representative Brian Mast 

Pia Dandiya is a first-generation Indian- American who has dedicated her career to strengthening communities as a high school principal, policy leader and technology innovator.

A Democrat who wants to write a new future, Pia is determined to make the American dream more accessible to her fellow Floridians.

Pia Dandiya has officially entered the race for Florida’s 21st Congressional District.

She said she’s running to “make the American dream accessible to every family across the country.”

“Now more than ever, we need leaders in Washington with a proven track record of putting the American people first,” she stated. “Elected leadership shouldn’t be about headlines or political fights — it should be about the American people.”

A graduate of Harvard University and Boston University, Dandiya brings an extensive background to the race. During her undergraduate years, she taught English to children in New Delhi’s slums during the summers and worked in former U.S. Senator Bill Nelson’s office, advocating for public education through the “I Have a Dream” Foundation.

Her teaching career began as a Teach for America corps member in under-resourced schools. She later founded a high-performing high school in Harlem, where every student gained college admission, despite 86% of them living below the poverty line. At just 28 years old, she became one of the youngest principals in the country.

Her work in education led to her appointment as a White House Fellow, where she served under both Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump. During her tenure on the White House Domestic Policy Council and at the U.S. Department of Education, Dandiya contributed to policies related to child development, school nutrition, and access to quality education.

Since January 2022, she has worked at Apple, leading public sector partnerships aimed at improving education, health care, and government services through technology. She was also appointed by Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker to the state’s P-20 Council, where she co-chairs the K-12 Computer Science working group focused on expanding digital learning opportunities throughout the state.

In launching her campaign on Monday, Dandiya unveiled a legislative platform centered on universal pre-K, workforce development for the 21st century, lowering health care costs, and safeguarding entitlement programs such as Social Security and Medicare.

She also pledged to champion abortion rights and make robust investments in public education if elected, contrasting her vision with that of Rep. Mast — a combat veteran who has held the seat since 2017 and is known for supporting former President Trump’s “America First” agenda.

“Floridians deserve better,” Dandiya declared. “Congressman Mast has stood by as tariffs hurt small businesses, health care costs soar, and veterans are left behind — all while critical programs like Social Security and Medicare face threats. We need bold, effective leadership that meets this moment with clarity and courage.”

Florida’s 21st Congressional District encompasses all of Martin and St. Lucie counties and parts of northern Palm Beach County. While it leans Republican — with a Cook Political Report rating of R+7 — it includes suburban areas where Democratic issues like education and health care resonate strongly.

Here are Five Major Commitments of Pia Dandiya

• Economic Opportunity For Every American
• Strong Schools, Bright Futures
• Defending America’s Promise
• Preserving The American Dream
• Putting People Over Politics

More About Pia Dandiya

Pia Dandiya, a proud native of District 21 and daughter of Indian immigrants, has built a career centered on empowering underserved communities through education and public service. Starting as a middle and high school teacher, she went on to found a high-performing high school in Harlem at just 28, where 100% of students—most living below the poverty line—were admitted to college. Her leadership as principal made her one of the youngest in the country and shaped her commitment to economic freedom through education.

Her dedication led her to serve as a White House Fellow at the Domestic Policy Council and Department of Education, where she deepened her belief in the importance of economic independence, childcare access, and affordable healthcare. She now leads public sector initiatives at Apple, helping states use technology to modernize education, healthcare, and governance. Appointed to the Illinois P-20 Council, she co-chaired the K-12 Computer Science group to improve collaboration across education systems.

Pia holds degrees from Harvard and Boston University and has worked in education-focused roles since her college years. Her experience in classrooms, policy circles, and the tech sector equips her to be a people-first leader in Congress. She champions universal pre-K, reproductive rights, job training, and stronger social programs like Social Security and Medicaid.

Living in Palm Beach Gardens with her husband and 2.5 year old sonSahib Sing Alag—who attends the Montessori school her mother founded—Pia is driven to make the government more responsive and ensure that all Americans have the tools not just to survive, but to thrive.

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On Monday, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held talks to advance the ongoing India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) negotiations. Their conversation followed a major development—US President Donald Trump’s announcement of sweeping new tariffs, including a 26% duty on all Indian imports to the US.

The new tariffs are being implemented in two phases: a 10% base rate started on April 5, and the remaining 16% will come into effect on April 9. These sudden changes have shaken global financial markets, with India’s Sensex and Nifty plunging over 3% on Monday.

A statement from the US State Department noted that the two leaders discussed “reciprocal tariffs” and the need to build a “fair and balanced trade relationship.” Jaishankar confirmed the call on social media platform X, stating the two agreed on pushing for an early resolution of the BTA and maintaining regular contact.

The latest round of BTA negotiations took place in Delhi between March 26 and 29, where key elements were outlined for future discussions. Both sides remain committed to finalizing the first phase of the agreement within the year.

The new tariff policy has sparked anxiety worldwide. President Trump’s broader tariff plan involves a base 10% duty on all imports, with added tariffs on selected countries, including allies. While the global response has included concerns and market volatility, India has not yet imposed retaliatory tariffs.

Indian officials are now prioritising the finalisation of the BTA in hopes of prompting the US to reconsider or lift the imposed tariffs. Such an agreement could also allow greater US access to Indian markets.

The Indian Commerce Ministry has stated it is closely analyzing the new US tariffs. Meanwhile, a report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) estimates that India could lose $5.76 billion in exports this year due to the new 26% tariff regime. The additional duties will affect most Indian exports, sparing only select sectors such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and some energy-related goods.

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Indian-American lawmakers and the diaspora have strongly criticized President Donald Trump’s recent imposition of a 26% reciprocal tariff on Indian exports, calling it a reckless move that could damage both economies. Trump justified the tariff by stating that since India charges the US 52%, America will charge half of that in return. The decision is part of a broader move imposing tariffs on about 60 countries.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi condemned the measure, calling it a financial burden on American families and small businesses, warning that it isolates the US from its allies while empowering adversaries. Congressman Ro Khanna, in a video statement, described the move as an unplanned and chaotic policy that could lead to inflation, economic slowdown, and even recession.

Indian-American Congressman Dr. Ami Bera warned that these tariffs would ultimately raise costs for consumers rather than benefit the economy. Ajay Bhutoria, former advisor to President Biden, highlighted the risks to India’s key export industries, predicting financial strain and job losses.

Experts, including Asia Society Policy Institute’s Wendy Cutler, cautioned that the tariffs could disrupt global supply chains, weaken US economic growth, and provoke retaliatory measures from affected nations. With concerns rising over inflation, trade instability, and diplomatic fallout, leaders are urging both nations to engage in dialogue to find a balanced solution.

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In the 2025 consolidated local elections in Naperville, Illinois, three Indian Americans emerged as projected winners, securing key roles in local governance.

Supna Jain, an incumbent and experienced educator, won re-election to the Indian Prairie School District 204 Board, securing 20% of the votes. With a background in academia, she is committed to enhancing education and has played a vital role in addressing remote learning challenges, strategic planning, and facility assessments during her tenure.

Ashfaq Syed made history by becoming the first Indian American elected to the Naperville City Council. A finance and banking professional, Syed has a strong record of community service, including leadership roles on local boards. His priorities include fiscal responsibility, public safety, and sustainable development.

Aishwarya Balakrishna, the youngest candidate in Naperville’s elections, won a seat on the Naperville Park District Board. A lifelong resident, she aims to make parks and public spaces more inclusive, accessible, and community-driven.

These victories mark a significant step forward in increasing Indian American representation in Naperville’s local government.

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Kash Patel’s swearing-in as the new Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) marked a significant moment for the Indian American community, particularly for those supporting the Republican Party and former President Donald Trump. His decision to take the oath of office on the Bhagavad Gita underscored the growing acceptance of diverse religious traditions in American governance.

Political analysts see Patel’s appointment as a step forward for Indian Americans within the Republican Party, which has historically had fewer representatives from the community. Robinder Sachdev, president of the Delhi-based Imagindia Institute and co-founder of the US India Political Action Committee, noted that Patel’s rise reflects increasing opportunities for Indian Americans in Republican politics.

For Karthik Rangarajan, a Virginia-based technology and business consultant, Patel’s elevation is a landmark event, making him the first Indian American and person of color to lead the FBI. He pointed out that Trump’s administration has been one of the most diverse, bringing individuals from different political backgrounds into key roles. Patel’s vocal stance on issues such as government transparency has positioned him as an influential figure within conservative circles.

Patel’s appointment is particularly significant for younger Indian Americans, many of whom have been drawn to Trump’s direct and aggressive social media strategy. According to Sachdev, Patel’s leadership style resonates with Trump’s image as a strong leader, making him a rising figure among young Republican supporters.

Community leaders, such as Jiten Agarwal from Houston, Texas, view Patel’s appointment as a sign of growing Indian American representation in high-level government positions. He noted that while Trump’s administration may be perceived as predominantly White, the proportion of Asian and Pacific Islander members aligns with the general U.S. population.

The appointment also marks a shift in political engagement, as Indian Americans have traditionally been more involved with the Democratic Party. However, Patel’s rise signals a growing presence in conservative politics, potentially inspiring more Indian Americans to explore opportunities within the Republican Party.

Over the past decade, the number of Indian Americans in senior U.S. government roles has surged by 150%. While the Biden administration had around 150 Indian Americans in leadership positions, experts believe the number will be smaller under Trump. However, with over 1,200 senior positions to be filled, Patel’s appointment may pave the way for more Indian Americans to enter high-ranking roles in law enforcement and governance.

Sanjeev Joshipura, executive director of Indiaspora, sees Patel’s appointment as a positive sign for the continued engagement of the Indian diaspora in American politics. With more opportunities opening up under the Trump administration, Indian Americans may increasingly find representation in senior government roles, strengthening their influence across the political spectrum.

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Despite initially running against Donald Trump in the Republican primary, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley may still play a role in his upcoming administration. Jiten Agarwal, a prominent Indian-American leader and CEO of QuantAi, believes Haley’s support for Trump after exiting the race has likely earned her a place in his Cabinet. Agarwal, who has supported both Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance, noted that Haley’s appearance at the Republican National Convention and Trump’s positive remarks about her underscore her potential role.

Agarwal highlighted the growing influence of Indian-Americans in the recent election, suggesting that the community’s backing of Trump reflects a belief that his foreign policies align more closely with India’s interests compared to the current administration. “Trump’s commitment to addressing issues affecting Hindu communities worldwide helped galvanize Indian-American voters,” Agarwal said. Additionally, recent diplomatic strains between the US and Canada have further swayed the community toward Trump’s vision for US-India relations.

Agarwal also pointed to Trump’s proposed tax extensions, which lowered corporate taxes to 21% and cut individual rates during his first term, as significant factors that resonate with Indian-American business owners. Trump’s housing plan, which includes building on federally protected land to reduce housing costs, has also generated optimism within the community, particularly among those in real estate.

Agarwal praised the efforts of organizations like HinduPact, Disha, and the Indian American PAC for raising political engagement within the community. “Our voting percentage has risen as we educate our community on the power of their vote to influence policies,” he said. The Indian-American community’s growing visibility, he believes, will encourage elected officials to consider their interests in future policymaking.

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Suhas Subramanyam has made history by becoming the first Indian American elected to Congress from Virginia and the East Coast. Running as a Democrat in Virginia’s 10th Congressional District, Subramanyam defeated Republican candidate Mike Clancy. He currently serves as a Virginia State Senator and expressed his honor in being trusted by the people of his district.

Subramanyam’s victory has secured his place in the Samosa Caucus, a group of five Indian American members in Congress, alongside Ami Bera, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ro Khanna, and Pramila Jayapal. His parents, who immigrated from India in the late 70s, inspired his commitment to service, education, and staying connected to his Indian heritage.

Subramanyam also spoke about the importance of a strong US-India relationship, citing India as one of the world’s most significant democracies. He advocates for enhancing defense partnerships, technology transfer, and shared strategic defense goals between the two nations. Subramanyam’s deep connection to both his Indian roots and American values will guide his work in Congress.

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Kamala Harris urged Americans to move beyond divisiveness in a call for unity on Wednesday as she worked to refocus attention on her campaign. Her message came shortly after President Joe Biden’s remarks about Trump supporters sparked a backlash. With the election only days away, Harris emphasized a vision for a more united nation, urging an end to blame and finger-pointing.

“We have a real opportunity to turn the page on a divisive decade,” Harris said, referencing the impact former President Donald Trump has had on American politics. Harris’s remarks were part of a final campaign push, with rallies scheduled in key battleground states such as North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. She built on themes of unity she highlighted earlier this week in a major speech in Washington.

Meanwhile, Biden’s comment about “garbage” in reference to rhetoric from Trump allies, rather than his supporters directly, prompted a swift response from the White House. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre clarified that Biden does not view Trump supporters negatively. Harris also clarified her position, noting her commitment to representing all Americans.

On the other side, Republicans, including Trump, were quick to react, likening Biden’s words to Hillary Clinton’s “basket of deplorables” comment during her 2016 campaign. Trump took aim at Biden and Harris at a rally in North Carolina, saying they treated Americans “like garbage.” He then posed with a garbage truck in Wisconsin, further underscoring his criticism.

Harris also encountered challenges from pro-Palestinian protesters at her events. Responding to interruptions, she affirmed her stance on the conflict in Gaza, saying, “Everyone has a right to be heard, but right now I’m speaking.” Her message resonated with supporters, many of whom were energized by her call for a unified America.

As the campaign enters its final stretch, Harris’s supporters expressed both optimism and concern, with one attendee describing a mix of hope and caution amid the ongoing campaign dynamics.

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Robert Downey Jr., best known as Iron Man, recently shared a video on Instagram showing a reunion with his Avengers castmates, including Chris Evans (Captain America), Don Cheadle (War Machine). Paul Bettany (Vision), Mark Ruffalo (Hulk), Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow), and Danai Gurira (Okoye). The group came together in support of Kamala Harris, the current Vice President, for the upcoming 2024 US Presidential election.

In the video, the cast brainstorms potential slogans, with Gurira humorously suggesting “Kamala Forever,” a twist on the memorable “Wakanda Forever” catchphrase from Black Panther. After tossing around ideas, the team finally agrees on “I’m Kamala Harris, and I’m down with democracy.” Downey Jr. captioned the video with “Let’s assemble for democracy,” tagging Harris’s running mate, Tim Walz.

Mark Ruffalo shared the video on X, urging people not to miss this election, highlighting issues like Project 2025, reproductive rights, climate change, LGBTQIA+ rights, and the Affordable Care Act. He warned, “This sh*t is real and it’s going to come for you.”

The November 5 election is anticipated to be a close contest between Harris and Donald Trump, who seeks another term in office. Many celebrities have shown their support, with George Clooney, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Taylor Swift endorsing Harris. Trump, on the other hand, has received backing from Elon Musk and astronaut Buzz Aldrin.

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