Sunita Patel

Sunita has a younger brother, Shankar, who has physical and intellectual disabilities. She is a registered nurse and additionally holds an MBA. Her work as an RN has broadened her desire to help people. Professionally, she has worked to support workforce diversification by implementing Project Search in the areas she supervises. In addition, she has provided guidance and expertise to a variety of research studies and projects related to disability. She has a wide spectrum of personal interests as a community activist, lover of Indian classical dance and music as well as women’s mental well-being.

Growing up in a smaller town with immigrant parents and a brother with a disability impacted Sunita deeply. Her parents’ struggle along with her experiences has shaped who she is today. Her journey after the loss of her mother led her to SIBS. Discovering this community has deepened her understanding and filled a void for which she is deeply grateful.

Sunita lives in Naperville with her husband, three children, brother, and elderly father.