We wanted to know more about Darshana and how she manages to wear so many hats with such grace, competence and care. Here are her responses to our questions:

• Who was your favorite teacher and what lesson(s) have they taught you?

I have had so many favorite teachers over the years, but the teacher that supported me through some of my most difficult years was Mrs. Williamson from Apple Valley High School.  She was not my classroom teacher, but the teacher coach for my HS mock trial team. My mom had suddenly passed away at the beginning of my freshman year of high school just after moving to Apple Valley. Mrs. Williamson saw that I was struggling and encouraged me to try out for the team. She gave me a safe space in Mock Trial to explore my passions and focus my energy. She extolled much wisdom over the four years I was on the team with little nuggets like, “only pack what you can carry.” and “people use bad words when they don’t know the right words – learn the right words to be more convincing.” She was firm but always encouraging. Little did I know until my father passed away in 2009, that the whole time she was my Mock Trial coach, she was also supporting my dad who needed guidance on raising a strong-willed daughter. And then, recently, when I reconnected with a fellow teammate from the past, I learned she did not only provide that much love and support for me, but that there were many of us over the years that made it through high school successfully because of her extra guidance and care. Teachers are so much more than the subject they are credentialed to teach.

• What books or authors do you recommend to others?

Here is a list of a few of my favorite books:

What Do You Do With a Problem – Kobi Yamada

Anne of Green Gables – L.M. Montgomery

The Hobbit (life changing for me) – J.R. R. Tolkien

Thinking Fast and Slow – Daniel Kahneman

The Power of Habit – Charles Duhigg

Amusing Ourselves to Death – Neil Postman

• Describe your dream vacation.

I would love to visit New Zealand – a little leisurely hike to take in views, eating good food, and meeting interesting people.

• Do you have a morning routine?

My morning routine starts with some yoga and by the time I get downstairs, my husband has made me a very fine cup of chai – with ginger and lemongrass. Then it’s my turn to make breakfast for the kids and send them off to school. Eating a balanced breakfast has always been a morning requirement for me!

• What is your hope for the future?

I am a hopeful idealist and yet firmly strive for logical and practical solutions. My hope for the future is that we re-learn the power of constructive conversation and come together to solve real world problems so that our children and grandchildren can live in a world where they can realize their dreams.

• What is your best tip for busy families?

Share a google calendar and eat a meal together regularly.

• What are the best qualities of living in Park Village?

Park Village is a community that actually cares about each other – I love that we respect, support, and cheer for each other. Maybe that is because we have so many opportunities for shared community activities like the garage sales, summer movie in the park, etc., where we gather for shared experiences and build fond memories. It’s like a neighborhood family.

• Favorite flavor of ice cream.

Well – don’t be disappointed, it is vanilla. Nothing like an excellent homemade vanilla ice cream – to go with pie, cake, brownies, or even just on its own!