Ashish Vaidya

Get to Know Council Member Ashish Vaidya

District 2 Council Member Ashish Vaidya brings a background in research, education and bridge-building to the Centennial City Council. Originally from Philadelphia, he earned his undergraduate degree cum laude from Villanova University before completing his Ph.D. in political science at Temple University. His professional career spans over 15 years teaching social sciences at the high school and college levels, where he has helped students develop critical thinking skills, understand public policy and navigate the challenges of an evolving world.

Ashish’s service-minded worldview is shaped by experiences like traveling to Belfast, Northern Ireland to help rebuild homes affected by the Troubles, and by his years mentoring students from diverse and working-class backgrounds. His academic training and extensive classroom experience have fostered a passion for analytical, data-driven problem-solving and a commitment to helping people find common ground even in divisive times. His goals for his first term will center on applying research-based, collaborative approaches to local issues—from housing affordability to environmental stewardship and community well-being.

Ashish and his wife, Heather, have called Centennial home since 2015. Outside of public service, he enjoys reading, exploring Colorado’s outdoors, collecting vinyl and connecting with neighbors across the community he is proud to represent.