Bita Daryabari

Board Member

Bita Daryabari is an Iranian-American philanthropist known for advancing Persian culture, empowering women and girls, and expanding educational opportunities worldwide. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and a Master’s in Telecommunication Management from Golden Gate University. After a successful career at GammaLink and MCI Communications—where she earned multiple accolades—she shifted her focus to philanthropy.
 In 2010, Ms. Daryabari founded Pars Equality Center, which supports the full integration of Persian (Iranian) immigrants, refugees, and asylees in the United States. Her passion for literature led her to establish the Bita Daryabari Endowment in Persian Letters at Stanford University, facilitating expanded course offerings, conferences, and the annual Bita Award in Persian Letters.
 Globally, her philanthropic work is channeled through the Unique Zan Foundation, which emphasizes education, health, and economic opportunities for women—particularly in Afghanistan, the Middle East, and Africa. Projects include building an all-girls school in Kabul, supporting women’s centers in Palestine, and funding schools in Jordan and Africa. She also fosters Iranian arts and cultural initiatives, co-sponsoring the historic Cyrus Cylinder exhibition at San Francisco’s Asian Art Museum and supporting Iranian artists at events like the Venice Biennale.
 Her recognitions include an Honorary Doctorate from Golden Gate University, the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, and a United Nations Appreciation Award. Ms. Daryabari also serves as a Visionary Circle Member of the X-Prize Foundation, reflecting her commitment to innovative, global problem-solving.