Rajiv K. "Raj" Fernando (born July 8, 1971) is an American businessman, political fundraiser and donor, and philanthropist.

[4] The award recognizes alumni on the basis of overall achievements, personal growth in career, and outstanding civic, cultural, and professional/business service.

He previously served on the boards of the American Security Project and the Foreign Policy Leadership Committee at the Brookings Institution.

He submitted his resignation to Secretary Clinton on August 17, 2011, citing a self-proclaimed need to "focus my energy on the operations of my company" because of "unique, unexpected, and excessive volatility in the international markets.

"[20] According to State Department emails later obtained by Citizens United and given to ABC News, Fernando submitted his resignation two days after an ABC News investigative team contacted the State Department asking about his qualifications to be a member of the ISAB and the procedure that led to Fernando's appointment.

"[20] Defending Fernando's appointment, ISAB executive director Richard Hartman called him as an expert in "cyber security" and said Fernando had experience in the private sector implementing sophisticated risk management systems, information technology and international financial markets.

[21] He donated $30,000 to WomenCount, a political action committee whose aim is to elect Democratic women who run for office.

[27][28] Fernando has also been a contributor to The Steppenwolf Theatre, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, and the Illinois Holocaust Museum, among other organizations.