In a world that often celebrates the extraordinary, it’s refreshing to find inspiration in the journey of an “average girl from an average family” who defied expectations, transcended boundaries, and rose to a position of leadership and influence. Manju Ganeriwala, born on January 24, 1956, in Akola, Maharashtra, and raised in Mumbai, embodies the power of determination, education, and an unwavering commitment to public service. Her story is not just a testament to her own resilience but also an inspiration for countless others to follow their dreams.
The Educational Odyssey of Manju Ganeriwala
Manju’s journey towards becoming the former Treasurer of the Commonwealth of Virginia began with her education. After completing her undergraduate studies at the University of Bombay, Manju Ganeriwala set her sights on a brighter future by pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the University of Texas at Austin. This academic achievement marked the beginning of her extraordinary path to leadership.
Manju’s decision to pursue higher education, even when societal norms and family expectations could have led her in a different direction, is a testament to her determination. She didn’t succumb to the pressures of tradition; instead, she followed her heart and intellect, and this choice would ultimately pave the way for a remarkable career in public service.
A Move to Virginia and the Spark of Public Service
In 1983, Manju made the life-altering decision to move to Virginia. There, Manju Ganeriwala commenced her professional journey with the Virginia Department of Planning and Budget. Little did she know that this decision would ignite her passion for public service and set her on a path to making a significant impact on the state.
Manju Ganeriwala reflects on her early years in Virginia, saying, “You get to see the 30,000-foot view of how policy is created. I found it very fascinating and interesting to see the legislative branch, the executive branch, and the tensions and cooperation between them to make things happen.”
Her growing interest in the intricacies of governance and policymaking marked the beginning of a career dedicated to public service.
A Leader in Challenging Times
Manju Ganeriwala’s remarkable journey continued as she was appointed as the Treasurer of the Commonwealth of Virginia in 2009 by then-Governor Tim Kaine. Her tenure began during the height of the recession, a challenging time for financial leadership.
Virginia was among the few states to maintain its AAA bond rating through the crisis and was one of the first to bounce back. Manju attributes this resilience to Virginia’s fiscally conservative budgeting, healthy savings account, and a cap on debt. Her leadership played a pivotal role in navigating the state through these turbulent financial waters.
In 2013, Manju Ganeriwala’s impact extended beyond Virginia as she was elected as the president of the National Association of State Treasurers.
In this role, she became a national voice, advocating to protect municipal bonds’ tax-exempt status and addressing various issues that affect the day-to-day finances of states. Her unwavering commitment to public service and financial expertise were increasingly recognized on a national level.
A Trailblazer and a Champion of Education
Manju Ganeriwala’s journey is not only one of professional achievement but also personal triumph. She proudly shares that she was the first woman in her family to attend college. Her mother, despite having only a 6th-grade education, played a pivotal role in supporting her daughter’s educational aspirations. It’s a testament to the power of encouragement, determination, and the pursuit of dreams.
Manju’s accomplishments go beyond her role as Virginia’s Treasurer. She joined the Financial Accounting Foundation (FAF) Board of Trustees on January 1, 2022, and her term will conclude on December 31, 2026. This new role underscores her continued dedication to financial stewardship and governance.
In 2022, Manju Ganeriwala retired after more than 13 years in her role as Virginia’s Treasurer, serving under five governors and overseeing the investment of public funds, managing state debt, and providing essential financial services to state agencies. Her retirement marked the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of Virginia’s financial leadership.
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