Dr. Anandita Oberoi is a professor of Psychology and Human Services at Western Governors University and a licensed professional counselor. Her research focuses on executive functioning, resilience, parenting children with differing abilities, and gifted education. Inspired by her son—who has represented the USA multiple times at the World Youth Chess Championships—Dr. Oberoi felt a strong urge to explore the connection between chess and cognitive development, particularly executive function in children. A speaker at the St. Louis Chess Conference in October 2024, she advocates for using chess as a global educational tool that fosters thinking, resilience, and cross-cultural connection.