Meet Minita Sanghvi, Mumbai-Born Democrat Running For NY State Senate

Meet Mumbai-born Minita Sanghvi, who is currently serving her second term as Saratoga Springs Finance Commissioner, and has officially launched her campaign for the New York State Senate. This bold step marks a paradigm shift in the political landscape. Sanghvi aims to bring a fresh perspective and dynamic leadership to the 44th Senate district, currently held by the longstanding Republican Jim Tedisco.

Born into a family of entrepreneurs in Bombay, India, Minita inherited a legacy of innovation and determination. Her grandfather, Mr. D. J. Sanghvi, is revered as the pioneer of the pen industry in India, laying the foundation for Minita's journey in the business world.

The American Dream

Holding an undergraduate degree in accounting with a minor in economics from Narsee Monjee College of Commerce and Economics, she further honed her skills with an MBA from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies. In 2001, Minita embarked on a transformative journey, moving to the United States. Her pursuit of knowledge and professional growth led her to become a U.S. citizen in 2010.

She also pursued an MS Degree in Retailing and Consumer Sciences from the University of Arizona and a PhD from the Bryan School of Business and Economics at the University of North Carolina, Greensboro. Minita's commitment to diverse perspectives is evident in her Graduate Certificate in Feminist Studies from Duke University.

Minita's professional trajectory is as diverse as it is impressive. From her role as a Senior Account Executive at Leo Burnett to managerial positions at Walmart and CARQUEST, she has seamlessly navigated the corporate landscape. Transitioning into academia in 2014, Minita took her passion for education from being a lecturer at UNCG to Saratoga Springs, joining Skidmore College's Management and Business Department.

Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Minita has been an active advocate for social justice and community development. Serving on the Human Relations Commission in Greensboro, NC, and contributing to the Charter Review Commission and the Human Rights Task Force in Saratoga Springs, Minita's mission was clear: to encourage equitable treatment and promote respect among all community members.

A Vision for Change

Sanghvi, a 46-year-old Democrat currently working as a marketing professor at Skidmore College, is gearing up to contest for the 44th  Senate district seat in November. This district, currently held by the longstanding Republican Jim Tedisco, has been the epicentre of political discourse since 2017. Sanghvi aims to address the pressing issues that Tedisco allegedly overlooks.

Before her tenure in Saratoga Springs, Sanghvi taught at the University of North Carolina, bringing a wealth of educational experience to her campaign. Despite not securing endorsements from local and county Democratic committees, Sanghvi remains confident in her ability to connect with the community.

In an exclusive conversation with WAMC Northeast Public Radio, Sanghvi highlighted her mission: "I want to put the community first and not play politics." She firmly believes that Tedisco is out of touch with the needs of regular citizens, prioritizing political posturing over the fundamental concerns of the community.

"I have worked with the county and the state when issues come up and solutions need to happen. I'm solution-driven and a problem-solver. Mr. Tedisco is not," asserts Sanghvi. As the district anticipates a surge in infrastructure funding, Sanghvi emphasizes ensuring it reaches the community effectively.

Sanghvi also emphasizes the imminent influx of infrastructure funding and the necessity of ensuring it benefits the district. "We have infrastructure money coming down the pipe, and we have to make sure it is coming to our district," she asserts. As the district expands, Sanghvi envisions the creation of an innovation hub, a nexus that stimulates dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders.

Her vision extends beyond mere political posturing; she advocates for an innovation corridor connecting Saratoga Springs and Schenectady. This corridor would foster collaboration among academic facilities, maker spaces, venture capitalists, and incubators, injecting new ideas into a district ripe for growth.

Beyond her professional achievements, Minita has made a beautiful home in Saratoga Springs with her wife Megan and their son. Their shared love for downtown strolls, Congress Park, and Saratoga Spa State Park reflects Minita's dedication to work-life balance. Watching their son engage in soccer, basketball, and Little League Baseball, Minita and Megan find joy in the simple pleasures of family life.

A Mother's Perspective on Gun Safety

Beyond political discourse, Sanghvi, a mother herself, places a high priority on gun safety. In her view, this is not merely a Second Amendment issue but a critical concern for parents and gun owners alike.  She asserts that this is a critical issue for all, emphasizing the need for thoughtful discussions and practical solutions.

Facing Opposition and Remaining Unyielding

Despite the early stages of her campaign, Sanghvi has encountered resistance from Republican chairs who suggest she should resign as commissioner.

"I am not letting the Republican chairs decide when and what I do." Undeterred, Sanghvi refuses to allow external pressures to dictate her decisions, asserting her independence and commitment to pursuing the best interests of the community.

Minita Sanghvi's candidacy for the New York State Senate brings a fresh perspective and a commitment to community-driven solutions. Her background as a marketing professor, coupled with her hands-on experience in finance, positions her as a dynamic candidate ready to address evolving needs, and her impact extends far beyond the boardroom and classroom, leaving an indelible mark on the communities she serves.