To the World, To the Future: Global Lecture Series 2025

Deepesh Dhingra, the Executive Director of One To World, brings over 15 years of professional experience, spanning multiple sectors, with a particular emphasis on global education and nonprofit management.

Deepesh began his career in the construction industry, where he quickly established himself as a skilled project manager, but his true interest was rooted in education and global collaboration. In pursuit of this growing passion, Deepesh shifted his focus to the nonprofit education sector. He began his journey as a volunteer at the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, NJ, where he eventually became the Director of Exhibitions, playing a pivotal role in bringing science and innovation to the public.

Deepesh then transitioned into cultural institutions, most recently serving at the Metropolitan Museum of Art as the Buildings Manager for Exhibitions.

His involvement in the nonprofit world includes the American Red Cross, Kenya Wildlife Service, NJ Community Water Watch, The National Science Foundation, The Interfaith Food Pantry, FIRST Robotics, and others. He has also been an active Global Guide with One To World, where he has helped foster international understanding and cultural exchange for over a decade.

In his current role as Executive Director of One To World, Deepesh combines his extensive nonprofit experience with his deep commitment to international education and cultural exchange. His vision is to build on One To World’s mission of promoting global cooperation and intercultural understanding, particularly by creating meaningful connections between international students and local communities in the New York area.

Alexis Akagawa works at Columbia University as a Senior International Student Adviser in the International Student and Scholars Office. In her role, she provides documentation and advising services to Columbia’s robust F and J-1 student community, tending to their immigration-related needs through assistance and information. Her expertise covers a host of issues such as visas, enrollment, employment and travel.

Alexis is a nationally recognized advocate for international education and US immigration policy. She holds degrees from Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs, the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, and Pitzer College. She is proficient in Japanese and Spanish.

In her free time, Alexis is an avid traveler. Her travels have taken her to Panama, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Italy, England, Mexico, Canada, Dominican Republic and 31 U.S. states.

Aman Chopra is an international public speaking coach, touring stand-up comedian, and podcast host for a leading public health podcast. Born into a globally nomadic life, Aman grew up across multiple countries, shaping a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives. As an international student in the U.S., he earned a degree in the Future of Emerging Media & Entertainment Technology from NYU Tandon.

Aman takes pride in his international identity, which has shown him the endless possibilities for success in the U.S. Through his work in public speaking, comedy, and media, he empowers others to find their voice, connect across cultures, and embrace the opportunities that come with being a global citizen.

Founded in 1977, One To World engages the almost 100,000 international students studying in the New York-area (including over 800 Fulbright grantees) through programs that create understanding and build positive relationships between area residents and these unofficial ambassadors from all over the world. Our programs provide a unique opportunity for U.S. residents and international students to engage on an intimate level; having dinner inside local homes, sharing culture and experiences in the classroom, and volunteering their time together through community service projects. One To World is designated by the U.S. Department of State as the official Coordinator of Enrichment Programs for visiting Fulbright grantees studying in the greater New York area.