April Statement:
I am honored to be recommended by the US Chess Nominating Committee for the 2025 Executive Board Election. With a lifelong commitment to chess, I bring 18 years of experience as a parent, organizer, tournament director, and dedicated volunteer, working to strengthen US Chess while fostering valuable professional relationships across the chess world.
I served the Virginia Chess Federation for four years, leading its transition through COVID, and have been a Virginia delegate to US Chess since 2017. For the past seven years, I have contributed to the US Chess Ethics Committee, including as Chair, ensuring fairness, integrity, and accountability in governance.
With 30 years in Information Technology, I will focus on modernizing US Chess’s digital infrastructure, improving efficiency, and streamlining processes. I am committed to collaborating with other members of the Executive Board and various committees to advance US Chess’s mission.
I ask for your trust and your vote.
Sincerely,
Anand Dommalapati
May Statement:
Dear US Chess Community,
US Chess serves over 116,000 members, yet some of its current technology systems rely on legacy infrastructure and fragmented platforms. This results in inefficiencies and frustrating user experiences. Since announcing my candidacy for the US Chess Executive Board and expressing my vision to the Nomination Committee, I have explored ways to improve US Chess’s dashboard and processes to enhance member services and support our broader chess community. Today, I share my plan to drive progress for US Chess while staying true to its mission and vision.
Proposing an IT Advisory Committee
To overcome our technological challenges, I propose the creation of an IT Advisory Committee. This group would consist of professionals with strong technical expertise in IT Architecture and Application development, and a background in chess—whether as players, parents, coaches, tournament directors, organizers or affiliates. The committee would guide the Executive Board and US Chess staff on IT initiatives to ensure projects and day-to-day operations align with member needs and organizational goals.
Transparency and Collaboration
True progress is built on trust and accountability. I propose promoting transparency in IT spending through clear oversight, routine audits, and adherence to project timelines and budgets. Collaboration is equally essential—member feedback through the IT Advisory Committee will shape advancements, ensuring diverse voices influence progress.
Modernization through Automation
The US Chess Office supports a vast network of members and stakeholders, but staff resources are limited. Automation where possible can alleviate inefficiencies, enabling staff to focus on high-impact tasks. Key areas include transitioning ratings server and tournament submissions to the new infrastructure, automating manual processes, and increasing user experience via the dashboard.
Addressing IT Challenges Thoughtfully
Upgrading IT infrastructure requires careful planning. Systems like the ratings server and tournament reporting are critical and need expertise to transition smoothly. I pledge to collaborate with the IT Advisory Committee and US Chess staff to ensure rigorous testing of these projects, keeping in mind that the implementations are user-friendly, efficient, and cost-effective.
Key priorities for the Immediate future
- Transition the remaining legacy systems like the ratings server and tournament report submissions to the new infrastructure and finish up the Phase 2 work from few years ago.
- Enhance navigation and inclusivity for a more user-friendly experience to all members, including an improved Event registration system for National events.
- Empower the IT Advisory Committee to provide strategic guidance while maintaining accountability.
Why This Matters
Aligning our systems with today’s needs is vital for achieving US Chess’s goals and vision. A robust, integrated IT infrastructure will better serve members, strengthen community connections, and position US Chess as a global leader in the chess world. By modernizing our operations, we can empower members at every level, from beginners learning their first moves to tournament directors and organizers shaping competitive events.
With your trust and support, I am confident we can create a more accessible, innovative, and accountable US Chess for future generations.
Anand Dommalapati
Driving US Chess into the future with accountability, innovation, and progress.
June Statement:
Dear US Chess Community,
With the 2025 Executive Board Election approaching, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone I’ve engaged with over the past several months. These conversations have been invaluable in deepening my understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Previously, I shared my background, commitment to service, and vision for modernizing infrastructure to enhance user experiences. Today, I reaffirm my dedication to building a stronger, safer, and more inclusive US Chess community.
Collaboration drives progress, and every voice matters. I am committed to fostering open communication, impactful partnerships, and inclusive decision-making with other US Chess Executive Board members and US Chess leadership to reflect the needs of all members. My key priorities will be:
Expanding Opportunities
Retaining players during key life transitions, particularly as they enter college or adulthood, is a significant challenge. Many leave the game due to academic pressures, financial constraints, or a lack of perceived opportunities. I propose creating accessible programs like more team leagues, unique collegiate and corporate chess events to reignite engagement and attract new players in addition to retaining existing talent. I will also advocate for expanding voucher programs to these categories, fostering lifelong connections to the game. Beyond competitive play, I envision US Chess collaborating with organizations like the World Federation for Chess Composition (WFCC) to promote creativity through solving and composition contests. These innovative initiatives celebrate chess’s strategic depth while drawing in diverse talent.
Strengthening Fair Play
While technology has elevated chess, it has also introduced challenges such as cheating and misconduct. From my tenure on the Ethics Committee, including as Chair, I’ve learned the importance of proactive measures. I will prioritize advanced detection tools, comprehensive and ongoing staff training, and preemptive protocols to safeguard fair play at all levels. These initiatives will uphold the integrity of our competitions and reinforce trust within the community.
Adapting to Change
The evolving political situation presents unique challenges, such as inflation, rising operational costs for event organizers, and shifting travel policies. These factors are likely to impact the sustainability of in-person tournaments both domestically and internationally with regards to travel for our players and foreign players. Adapting strategically to these hurdles will require collaboration and innovative solutions. I will work alongside the broader chess community and Board members to develop solutions that safeguard US Chess’s mission and long-term viability. Through my experience as a parent and Arbiter at international competitions, I’ve built strong relationships with FIDE Arbiters/Officials and Organizers. I aim to leverage these connections to secure greater US representation in continental and international events, particularly for youth players. Increased visibility on the international stage inspires growth, fosters pride, and showcases the immense talent within US Chess.
I am proud of my contributions to US Chess thus far and eager to serve in a greater capacity. I respectfully ask for your vote in this election. If you’re eligible, please register by June 1st and join me in shaping the future of US Chess. Together, we can build a vibrant, innovative, and resilient chess community for generations to come.
Anand Dommalapati
Driving US Chess forward with accountability, innovation, and progress.
