Anu Nakka elected to key public office in Milpitas
INDIAN AMERICAN Anu Nakka has been elected to the Milpitas Unified School District’s (MUSD) Board of Education. She is the first Indian-American ever to have been elected to public office in Milpitas, California.
‘I honestly didn’t expect so much support,’ said Nakka in an interview with The Milpitas Beat. ‘But I think it’s time for change. It’s time for collaboration and for teamwork.’
Nakka moved from India to Milpitas in 2001 to be with her husband. She has served on various PTAs and been deeply involved in supporting both her daughters’ schools. Her youngest is an 8th-grader at Rancho Middle School; her oldest is a senior at Milpitas High.
‘I never expected I would reach what I am today,’ said Nakka. ‘When I came to this country, I didn’t know how much potential and how many resources would be offered to us. It’s a huge deal, and it feels very rewarding.’
Despite being a newcomer to the political scene, Nakka was able to garner support from various elected officials and community leaders in Milpitas. When asked what was behind her ability to attract support and ultimately win the election, she had three key words: ‘Walk, knock, and talk.’
‘Talking to people oneon-one made a huge impact and difference during my campaign,’ Nakka said. ‘I think it’s about connecting with people.’
Nakka will be officially sworn in on 13 December, and plans to jump right into the job from day one.
‘I want to listen and learn before anything else,’ said Nakka.
She also shared a big learning from her campaign: ‘This country has given me a lot. And it’s never too late for anybody. If you want to do something, to give your bit of contribution, it’s never too late.’
Along with Nakka, Chris Norwood and Kelly Yip-Chuan were also re-elected to their seats on the school board.
‘I would like to thank everyone who has believed in me, trusted in my initiatives, and been out there supporting and walking,’ she added.
‘I was amazed by all of the volunteers and Milpitains. A huge shout-out and thank you to all of them.’