About Me

A Personal Journey

My name is Jag Nagendra, and I am excited to share my journey with you as I run for a District 3 seat on the Folsom City Council in 2026. My story begins in Bangalore, India, where I was born and raised. After spending 29 wonderful years in India, I moved to the United States, in the year 2000, bringing with me a rich cultural heritage and a deep commitment to community values.

Family

I have been married to my wife, Shyla, for 32 years. Together, we have raised our son, Aditya, who has grown into an exceptional individual. Aditya is now married to Anusha, and they make a wonderful couple. My personal life is deeply enriched by my close-knit family. They have been my source of strength and inspiration, providing unwavering support throughout my journey. Our family values and cultural heritage have played a crucial role in shaping my perspectives and guiding my actions. My commitment to family and community is a testament to the values I hold, emphasizing the importance of unity, respect, and collective growth.

A Commitment to Community Leadership

My passion for community leadership was ignited during my time as a Commissioner on the City of Davis' Business and Economic Development Commission. This role taught me the critical importance of economic development for the health of our cities and the quality of life of our residents. From there, my journey continued as I took on leadership roles in several esteemed non-profits, including: Sequoia Villas Home Owner Association, India Association of Davis, Project Management Institute Sacramento Valley Chapter, Kannada Sangha of Sacramento, Cal Expo State Fair, and Sacramento Entrepreneurship Academy. These experiences allowed me to work closely with diverse groups, addressing key issues from cultural inclusion to public safety, and ensuring that every community member's voice is heard and valued.

Community and Professional Leadership

With decades of community leadership service in non-profit, community, and local government organizations, I have always been dedicated to enhancing the well-being of our community. My professional journey has been equally diverse and enriching, spanning 35 years across engineering, project management, leadership, and entrepreneurship. From Fortune 500 companies to startups, I have evolved from an engineer to a CEO, always striving to bridge technical proficiency with strategic leadership.

Recognized Thought Leader

As a recognized thought leader, I have had the privilege of speaking at numerous conferences and workshops, sharing my insights on effective leadership, community engagement, personal growth, and sustainable development. My contributions have been acknowledged through various awards, including the Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) award from Toastmasters International.

A Coach and Mentor

Beyond my professional achievements, I am also an Emotional Intelligence and Life Coach, dedicated to mentoring individuals to realize their full potential and make significant positive impacts in their lives. My guidance has been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous professionals, empowering them to reach new heights in their respective fields. My commitment to nurturing talent and fostering growth has earned me widespread recognition and respect. My mentorship style, characterized by a blend of strategic insight and personal support, has not only developed future leaders but also strengthened the foundations of various organizations. My legacy as a mentor continues to inspire and uplift those who have had the privilege of learning from me.

A Vision for Folsom

As I run for the Folsom City Council, my vision is to continue fostering a community where everyone feels safe, included, and valued. I believe in strategic planning and stakeholder engagement to drive meaningful change and enhance our community's well-being. Together, we can create a brighter future for Folsom.