The story of Krishanti Vignarajah is one of resilience, vision, and purpose. Born on September 16, 1979, to Tamil parents who fled the violence of the Sri Lankan Civil War, she arrived in the United States as an infant with her family.
Her parents had just $200 in their pockets and no clear path forward, yet they carried the unshakable belief that education, hard work, and integrity could transform their children’s lives. Today, Krish is recognized as one of America’s most influential advocates for refugees, immigrants, and marginalized communities—living proof that courage and compassion can reshape destinies.
Early Life of Krishanti Vignarajah: A Journey of Resilience
Growing up in Baltimore County, Maryland, Krish witnessed firsthand the sacrifices her parents made to build a new life. Her childhood was shaped by gratitude and grit. From elementary school days, she was already inspired by the power of politics and representation. Walking door to door with her mother to campaign for Senator Barbara Mikulski, she saw how ordinary citizens could help elect extraordinary leaders. That early spark ignited a lifelong commitment to public service.
Academic Excellence and Global Perspective
Krishanti Vignarajah’s educational path is nothing short of extraordinary. At Yale University, she earned her B.S. in Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology while also pursuing a Master’s degree in Political Science—graduating magna cum laude and inducted into Phi Beta Kappa.
Her thirst for deeper knowledge earned her a prestigious Marshall Scholarship to Oxford University, where she completed an M.Phil. in International Relations. Returning to the U.S., she attended Yale Law School, where she contributed to the Yale Law Journal and further developed her expertise in law, governance, and global affairs.
Krishanti Vignarajah: Building a Career of Service and Leadership
Krishanti Vignarajah began her professional journey clerking for Chief Judge Michael Boudin on the U.S. Court of Appeals, practicing law at Jenner & Block in Washington, D.C., and teaching at Georgetown University as an adjunct professor. But her calling extended beyond the courtroom.
At the U.S. Department of State, she served as a Senior Advisor under both Secretary Hillary Clinton and Secretary John Kerry, playing a pivotal role in refugee and migration policy, U.S. foreign policy law, and global humanitarian programs. Later, at the Obama White House, she worked as Policy Director for First Lady Michelle Obama, where she led the groundbreaking Let Girls Learn initiative, empowering young women across the globe through education.
Her work reflected a simple yet profound belief: that opportunity should not be determined by geography, gender, or circumstance.
Breaking Barriers in Politics and Advocacy
In 2018, Krishanti O’Mara Vignarajah ran for Governor of Maryland, gaining national attention as a candidate who could have become the state’s first woman, immigrant, or person of color elected to the role. While she did not win, her campaign left a lasting imprint—challenging stereotypes and inspiring future leaders to step forward.
In 2019, she took on the role of President and CEO of the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), leading bold advocacy against policies designed to restrict refugee resettlement. Under her leadership, LIRS challenged the legality of Executive Order 13888, a policy that sought to allow states to reject refugee resettlement. Her public stance was unwavering: “This policy is cruel and shortsighted.” Through legal battles and advocacy, she protected the rights of countless families seeking safety and reunification.
Today, as President and CEO of Global Refuge, Krish continues her mission to defend human dignity and expand opportunities for those displaced by war, violence, and disaster.
Honors and Recognition
Her groundbreaking leadership has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as one of The Daily Record’s Top 100 Women and Most Admired CEOs, The Hill’s Changemakers, WTCI’s International Business Leaders, and The Baltimore Sun’s Women to Watch.
Personal Strength and Resilience
Beyond her professional achievements, Krishanti O’Mara Vignarajah’s personal journey speaks volumes about her courage. In 2020, she openly shared her breast cancer diagnosis, determined to break the stigma and inspire others facing similar challenges. With the unwavering support of her husband, Collin O’Mara, CEO of the National Wildlife Federation, and their two young daughters, Alana and Leya, Krish continues to balance leadership with motherhood and advocacy with personal healing.
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