JRPD Foundation
JRPD Provides Access to Opportunities
- Access to Education
- Access to Healthcare
- Access to Economic Stability
Our Mission
Empower under-served and under-represented communities by funding targeted programs that provide access to education, healthcare, and economic stability.
Our Vision
We help build stronger, healthier, more vibrant communities by providing comprehensive support and resources. We are committed to funding projects that empower individuals and families through education, health initiatives, economic support, and cultural enrichment. We strive to encourage an inclusive and diverse environment, making a lasting and positive impact on the lives we serve.
Our Story
Janak Desai
Educate, Elevate & Empower
The JRPD Foundation was established to honor the memory of Mr. Janak Desai, a beloved individual known for his selflessness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to uplifting the underrepresented and underserved. As a pioneer in developing advanced security layers for Linux systems, Janak’s professional accomplishments reflected his brilliance, dedication, and innovative spirit. Despite his demanding career, he always prioritized giving back to the community and inspiring those around him.
In December 2022, after 14 years, Janak returned to his birthplace in India on a 10-day trip to reconnect with his roots and revisit cherished memories. Tragically, what began as a case of traveler’s diarrhea—a common ailment—escalated into a small bowel obstruction due to complications from over-the-counter medication. The situation was compounded by systemic medical malpractice and negligence at a rural hospital. Payment-based care requirements, delays in appropriate treatment, and the absence of timely surgical intervention ultimately claimed his life. As a healthy, active individual with no preexisting conditions, his untimely death was a devastating loss for his family, friends, and the countless lives he had touched.
The JRPD Foundation continues Janak’s legacy by addressing the inequities he fought to overcome. Through initiatives aimed at improving access to quality healthcare, advancing education, and empowering underserved communities, the foundation ensures that Janak’s values, compassion, and mission live on, inspiring meaningful and lasting change.
Board of Directors
Bhavana Desai, MBA
Senior Director, Regulatory Affairs
Tarsus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Darshana Shah, PhD
Senior Associate Dean
Marshall University Joan C. Edward School of Medicine
Anu Madan, PhD
Clinical Development Consultant
Danik Innovations LLC
Advisory Board
Keyur Shah
Security Architect
MKDS Consulting
Susan Liebeskind
Senior Research Scientist
Georgia Tech Research Institute
Mehboob Vellani
CPA (Retired)
Shelvy Campbell-Monroe, PhD, MPH
Associate Dean, Office of Culture & Belonging
Marshall University Joan C. Edward School of Medicine