Anil Mandala joined the GHACF board in 2015, is the current chair of the Grants Committee, and has served on the Executive, Governance, and Impact Investing committees. His discerning approach, in partnership with his insight on community needs, makes him a valuable member of the board.
Born in Hyderabad, India, Anil earned his Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering in India, then came to the US for his Master’s in Mechanical Engineering at the New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark, NJ. He later completed an MBA from Grand Valley State University.
“My father was involved with philanthropic organizations in India. He taught me firsthand the impact philanthropy can make in uplifting the lives of the people in the underserved communities and villages in India.” —Anil Mandala, GHACF Board Member
Anil moved to the Grand Haven area in 1991 to work for Thomas & Betts in Spring Lake. Coming to the Grand Haven area was a culture shock after living in the New York area, but he liked the community, made some good friends, and decided to stay here.
He joined GHSP/JSJ in 1993 as a project engineer and, during his time with the company, took on different roles in engineering and international business working in various countries including India, China, Germany, Korea, and Japan. In 2009, Anil started V Solutions Global, which provides sourcing, market entry, and engineering solutions for US companies seeking to enter Asian markets.
“I am honored and privileged to serve on the board of the foundation that truly lives up to its mission of enhancing the quality of life for everyone in our community, as well as providing me an opportunity to give back to the community where we have lived for the last 25+ years,” said Anil. “This is an exciting time to be on the board at the foundation. We’re working with a very talented staff and diverse board members who are passionate about our community as we implement the new strategic plan that focuses on impact-driven grant making, to addressing some of our community’s pressing needs, and making a positive impact for years to come.”
Anil met and married his wife Shanthi in 1997, and they have two boys, Anish and Aashray, both of whom have served on the GHACF Youth Advisory Committee. Anil has been involved with various community activities including volunteering at LEDA, the Coast Guard Festival, and Grand Haven Area Public Schools, among others.
See our full board at ghacf.org/meetheteam.