Preston Hollow neighbors emphasize Indian American success in DFW with new study

Mayor Johnson and Arun at the proclamation celebration. Photo by Vladimir Meyman

The Indian American CEO Council (IACEO), created by Preston Hollow neighbors Sanjiv Yajnik and Arun Agarwal, published a study this week demonstrating the impact that Indian Americans have on our communities.

The IACEO was created by the pair in 2018 “to bring together Indian American business leaders to advocate for community involvement and civic engagement,” Yajnik said. “Through our work, we aim to give back and make our community a more vibrant place to live and work.”

The study, “Poised for Leadership: How the Indian American community is making a mark and why it matters” was conducted by the University of Dallas Institute of Urban Research on behalf of IACEO.

“This insightful study demonstrates the importance and profound impact Indian Americans have on DFW,” Yajnik said. “As one of the fastest growing populations in the U.S. with leading positions in the workplace, this study shows that Indian Americans can have an even greater impact in their communities.”

As Mayor Eric Johnson declared August 15 as Indian American Day, Indian Americans and others all over the world celebrated the 75th Indian Independence Day. Yajnik and Agarwal aim for this study, and the council as a whole, to highlight the significance of the IA population in the area.

“As an Indian American, I am very proud of my heritage, and I consider America my home. For many Indian Americans, this is a time to recognize our storied history and the countless accomplishments Indian Americans have made to society and the overall economy,” Yajnik said.

The study determined that there are more than 220 thousand Indian Americans living in the DFW area, which accounts for 40% of all Asian Americans in the area. The study also found that Indian Americans are civically involved, with 26% having participated in community service, 20% having donated money to a candidate or campaign, 17% having attended a public hearing and 15% having contacted a representative.

The IACEO also found that Indian Americans are leading in STEM and the workplace. Sixty percent of DFW Indian Americans majored in STEM, whereas only 24% of all other groups majored in STEM.  Indian Americans were also found to be twice as likely as other Asian groups to work in management occupations.

“We should use this study to break barriers and form alliances. With success, comes responsibility. We should be involved in local activities, get involved in local parks, art community, sports, food banks, etc. and always vote in local elections,” said Agarwal.