Kapoor Appointed to Lead State's Human Rights and Opportunities Commission

Fairfield University takes pride in producing not just academically accomplished graduates but also individuals who contribute significantly to society. Nicholas Kapoor MBA, MS'18, a Monroe resident and an alumnus of the university’s graduate program in mathematics, stands out as a shining example of this commitment, the university announced.  

Recently appointed as the chair of the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) by Governor Ned Lamont, Kapoor is not only making waves in the realm of human rights but is also bringing his passion for inclusivity into the classroom and the wider campus community.  Kapoor serves as an instructor of the practice in the Mathematics Department at Fairfield University, where he imparts not only mathematical knowledge but also a broader perspective on the importance of diversity and inclusion.

Kapoor was initially appointed to CHRO in 2017, and was reappointed in 2020 and 2023 by House Speaker Matt Ritter.

When asked about his views on civic engagement, Kapoor emphasized its pivotal role in fostering a diverse community life. He believes that active participation in civic affairs is key to creating a society that values and respects the rights of all its members. Kapoor shared, "Civic engagement is not just a duty; it's an opportunity to shape the kind of community we want to live in. It's about understanding and appreciating the richness that diversity brings to our lives."

Kapoor's recent appointment as the chair of the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities is a testament to his dedication to human rights advocacy. The CHRO, one of the oldest human rights commissions in the country, is responsible for safeguarding the rights of citizens falling under its 37 protected classes. Kapoor's role involves working closely with the Commission to promote and guide their initiatives through education and outreach.

The mission of CHRO is to eliminate discrimination through civil and human rights law enforcement and to establish equal opportunity and justice for all persons within the state through advocacy and education.  It is the statutory responsibility of the Commission to:

•          Enforce human rights laws that ban illegal discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations and credit transactions.

•          Monitor compliance with state contract compliance laws and with laws requiring affirmative action in state agency personnel practices.

•          Establish equal opportunity and justice for all persons in Connecticut through education and outreach activities.

At Fairfield University, in addition to his role in the Mathematics Department, Kapoor holds the position of Associate Director of the Center for Academic Excellence (CAE). In this capacity, he plays a crucial role in fostering an inclusive learning environment, working with faculty to envision classrooms that embrace diversity, and encouraging educators to "see the bigger picture." His commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive academic community extends beyond the CAE; Kapoor is also the co-chair of the faculty of color affinity group and a member of the LGBTQ+ affinity group on campus.

At Fairfield, Kapoor ensures that his students are exposed to more than just academic theories, according to the university. He strives to create an inclusive environment within the classroom where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated. Kapoor believes that education goes beyond textbooks and mathematical formulas; it is about preparing students to navigate a world as it is today.

Kapoor served on the Monroe Town Council for 3.5 years between 2012 and 2017 and on the Monroe Board of Education from 2019 to 2022. He also serves as a Board Member of the Center for Family Justice – a Bridgeport-based non-profit whose mission is to break the cycle of abuse and violence – domestic, sexual, and child – by providing services that create hope, restore lives, and drive social change through education and community collaboration.  According to his official biography, his “love of public service continues to push him to be involved at the local and state levels.”

Kapoor's journey from a Fairfield University graduate to an influential advocate for human rights exemplifies the institution's commitment to producing graduates who positively impact their communities and the world at large. As he continues to shape the discourse on human rights in Connecticut, Kapoor's dedication to inclusivity and civic engagement will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy at Fairfield University and beyond, officials proudly indicated.