Sheela Murthy, Philanthropist and Entrepreneur

There is a perception that a majority of immigrants in the U.S. only give to organizations and causes in the country where they came from. While my experience disputes this perception, it is difficult to counter this belief except through examples and facts. My observation is that Asian Americans live in three worlds: the world in which they are from, the one in which they currently reside, and a new one that includes the best of the first two. This third world is the most interesting because globalization allowed for this convergence and depending on the circumstances, I believe it is the most important one to understand when working with immigrant donors. Their giving patterns are unique and the next generation will be deeply affected by their parent's experiences.

Sheela Murthy is a successful immigration lawyer and founder of the Murthy Law Firm. Sheela's story showcases the ability of philanthropists in the U.S. to live, give and do business in both worlds, India and the U.S. Sheela moved from India in the 80s and graduated from Harvard Law School. She started her own law firm in 1994 in Maryland with a liaison office in Chennai. The Murthy Law Firm was honored in 2008 with the Maryland International Global Award for contributing to international issues. Ernst & Young also honored Sheela asEntrepreneur of the Year in 2009. She is listed among the top 100 women in Maryland.

In addition to business success, Sheela was named 2009 Philanthropist of the Year by United Way Central Maryland for her $1 million gift. Sheela and her husband started the MurthyNayak Foundation to support projects in India and the U.S. The Foundation focuses their work on children and women's health and educational issues, programs that assist immigrants, educate and advocate for immigration, and disaster relief efforts. In India, the Foundation supports adult education and literacy, orphanages and old-age homes, and offers scholarships.