My Story

My name is Arjoon Srikanth, and I’m a software engineer and homeowner living in the heart of Ballston. My story begins with my parents, Srikanth and Swapnali, who met while pursuing graduate degrees at Georgia Tech. Despite both hailing from India, they came from different states — spelling a likely doom for their budding love. They fought hard to marry each other despite the protests of others, and their determination and fortitude in the face of adversity impressed on me the most important lesson of my life: you must be unflinching in the pursuit of what is right.

I’ve lived all across the country, but primarily grew up in Houston, Texas with my Mom, Dad and elder sister. Hard work and a passion for learning led me to Rice University, where I studied Computer Science and Statistics and was honored to be a Trustee Distinguished Scholar. In my second year at Rice, Hurricane Harvey devastated the city of Houston, and I knew I had to act. I helped tear down homes in my neighborhood that had been affected by the flooding, and went on to use my quantitative skills to write a research paper on geospatial flood risk whose findings were presented to Houston’s Chief Resilience Officer. This formative experience showed me that data and technology have the power to meaningfully improve people’s lives, and I have taken those lessons to heart during my professional journey.

After college, I began my career and settled in Ballston, having fallen in love with its gorgeous walking trails and vibrant atmosphere. Throughout my time as a software engineer, I have tirelessly worked to support our nation’s most critical functions, from the US Army to the Department of the Treasury. I’ve seen firsthand how technology can fundamentally transform an organization for the better, and I will bring that philosophy of continuous improvement to our General Assembly.

I currently serve on the board of the Westview at Ballston Metro condominium, a community of over 300 residents, where I have championed efficiency and modernization for my building. I am also a dedicated volunteer for the Arlington Food Assistance Center, driving to collect donations from local farmer’s markets. Ultimately, I was inspired to run by the unfortunate fact that many in our community have to make the tough choice every month between paying rent and buying groceries.

I seek the office of delegate because I have seen rising costs prevent my neighbors from living in the community they grew up in. I seek the office of delegate because Virginia has the opportunity to lead the world in technology, if we make the right decisions now. And I seek the office of delegate to return our Commonwealth to her grand tradition of citizen legislators: everyday people with good ideas and the willingness to serve.

I look forward to meeting all of you and learning your hopes and ambitions for our district.

Arjoon Srikanth is a lifelong student of history and an avid reader. He is an outdoorsman and has played the Viola and the Tabla drums since childhood. He can often be found winning trivia at Ballston Local or spending his Sunday afternoons at First Down.