RRU board welcomes Richa Sharma-Raisinghani
Richa Sharma-Raisinghani, a policy and government relations leader, has been appointed to the Royal Roads University Board of Governors.
Through her experiences in education, work and volunteering, Richa recognizes the importance of accessible post-secondary education close to home and the lasting benefits it brings to the community. With the RRU Langford | John Horgan Campus officially opened in September and programs drawing learners from around the world, there is a lot to be excited about, she says.
“I can just see the growth that is going to happen in downtown Langford because of the new campus. It’s bright, it’s open and it’s collaborative within the community,” she says. “The trickle-down effect this campus is going to have for the Westshore, and Vancouver Island overall, will be transformative.”
As she starts her one-and-a half-year term on the Board of Governors, Richa brings experience in government relations to the table.
“One of my strengths is understanding how decisions are made, from the political dynamics to the mechanics of policy, and pairing that with strong communication and relationship-building. Having a clear grasp of government priorities and how to navigate them is something I draw on daily, and it’s what I hope to bring to Royal Roads,” she says.
Richa worked as a ministerial advisor to both the Minister of State for Infrastructure and the Minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Trade in British Columbia before taking on her current role as Senior Strategy Manager, BC Government Affairs with TELUS. No stranger to high-pressure and complex topics, she believes in lifelong learning.
“To represent voices, you first have to understand them," she says. "Being a positive contributor to your community means committing to lifelong learning."
Her role as a Board of Governors member is another opportunity to sharpen her pencil, so to speak.
“This is a powerhouse of a board if I have ever seen one,” Richa says. “There is so much depth and so much experience. It’s intimidating in the most positive way to have these brilliant minds all around and have the opportunity to work closely with them.”
Her desire to understand the world around her is a good complement to a belief that there is always a way to get things done – when you have a good idea and the right people supporting it.
“I want to learn from the voices and experiences around me and use that knowledge to find more of my own voice … we all have a voice and perspective that’s valuable,” she says. “I am really excited to be a part of the innovative ways Royal Roads is positioning post-secondary, not just in the expansion of its campus but through its programs.”
About the RRU Board of Governors
The RRU Board of Governors sets policy and strategy for the university, and advances the institution’s objectives. The volunteer board comprises the university president; a professor elected by RRU professors; a student elected by RRU students; a university employee elected by their work peers; and up to six people appointed by BC’s Lieutenant Governor; as well, up to two people who are not employees of the university are appointed by the board. Each governor votes on board decisions and the chair — currently, Lori Wanamaker — also acts as the university's chancellor.