Shefali Mehta :- In the realm of environmental and agricultural economics, Dr. Shefali Mehta stands as a beacon of innovation and dedication. With a rich tapestry of experiences across private, public, and non-profit sectors, Dr. Mehta has not only carved a niche for herself but has also become a driving force in advancing science, research, and education.
Born and raised in Bethel, Connecticut, by immigrant parents from India, Dr. Shefali Mehta’s upbringing exposed her to the duality of cultures—the American one she was born into and the Indian one of her ancestors. This fusion ignited a profound connection to nature, rooted in the Jain faith’s principles of valuing and preserving the environment.
Shefali Mehta: Nurturing Roots and Expanding Horizons
Dr. Shefali Mehta‘s academic journey unfolded against diverse backdrops, each chapter contributing to her holistic approach to environmental stewardship.
New York: A Melting Pot of Passions
Her undergraduate years at New York University (NYU) became a melting pot of cultural experiences. A brief stint at Merrill Lynch revealed her passions lay beyond finance, leading her to engagements with Matador Records, America Counts, and the American Cancer Society. These experiences laid the groundwork for her future endeavours, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and social impact.
India: A Cultural Exploration
Awarded the Boren Scholarship, Dr. Shefali Mehta immersed herself in the cultural richness of Kerala, India. Surveying rural villages underscored the symbiotic relationship between impoverished communities and their reliance on natural resources. This pivotal experience solidified her commitment to environmental advocacy.
Minnesota: Nurturing Knowledge and Purpose
Returning to the U.S., Dr. Mehta pursued a PhD in Agricultural and Applied Economics and an MS in Statistics at the University of Minnesota. Her research delved into decision-making under uncertainty, focusing on invasive species management and lion hunting conservation. The academic journey in Minnesota also fueled her passion for promoting STEM education through initiatives like Teaching SMART.
Beyond Academia: Bridging Gaps and Cultivating Change
Post-academia, Dr. Mehta’s trajectory spanned roles at McKinsey, Syngenta, and the Soil Health Partnership before assuming her current pivotal position at USDA. A fervent advocate for diversity and inclusion, she actively serves on boards and advises organizations, embodying her commitment to fostering positive change.
Open Rivers: A Space for Exploration
In 2017, Dr. Mehta founded Open Rivers Consulting Associates, a haven for ongoing exploration and testing of new ideas. This venture underscores her belief in continually weaving diverse expertise into the fabric of environmental solutions.
A Perennial Classroom of Possibilities
Dr. Shefali Mehta’s journey epitomizes the power of intertwining knowledge, compassion, and diverse perspectives. Her role as Deputy Under Secretary at USDA amplifies the potential for science-based, data-driven solutions to bolster food security and cultivate a climate-smart food system.
In her own words, “The value of science and data and the ability to transform them to insights is only increasing.” Dr. Shefali Mehta continues to hold space for exploration and expansion, ensuring that the lessons from our lifelong classroom propel us forward into a future where environmental stewardship is at the forefront.
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