Alpana Sahu

What is your favorite book/author and why?
My favorite author is Dr. Orison Swett Marden.  Dr. Marden was a medical doctor, an attorney, a business man and a forward thinking author who wrote books that provide inspiration and motivation.  As a little girl growing up in rural India, I was discouraged from attending nice schools and obtaining a higher education.  My father was more progressive, and he gave me Dr. Marden’s book Pushing to the Front.  In this book, Dr. Marden wrote about many topics, but one that struck me personally was the chapter entitled “How Poor Boys and Girls Go to College.”  I drew inspiration from that chapter as I grew up and struggled to obtain an education.  I re-read Dr. Marden’s book periodically to keep me motivated and to remind me how far I have come in my life.

In fact, the main reason I wanted to become a trustee is because of the challenges I faced growing up.  I grew up in an agricultural community that espoused traditional and sometimes archaic values.  Although there is much beauty in the culture, one part of the culture that was not very nice was discrimination when it comes to knowledge and education.  These experiences move me to try to make knowledge and education available to everyone in the community. 

How long have you been a member of our community?  What’s your favorite thing to do in Grayslake?
I have lived in Grayslake since 2013.  There are so many things I enjoy doing in Grayslake.  It is such a wonderful place to live and raise a family.  I love coming to the library and participating in the many activities with my children.  However, my absolute favorite thing to do is to enjoy time with my children and encourage them in their many activities around the community.  

What’s your educational background?
I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Mumbai University in India.  I also earned a Masters in Health Administration from Governor’s State University and a Clinical Trial Management Degree from the University of Chicago.  However, most of my education comes from the work I have done at renowned universities in the Chicago area over the past 20 years. 

Who is in your family?
I am married to Dr. Pradip Sahu, and we have three children.  In fact, some people only know me as Krish’s mom, Sharanya’s mom or Akhil’s mom.  

Fun fact.
I love to walk, and I love to celebrate life.  In fact, when I’m not at work, you can find me walking around and enjoying some time speaking with my friends and neighbors of all cultures and backgrounds.  I see the library as a community center in which all are welcome and all can increase their knowledge and understanding of the world.