Manisha Kapani was born in Pune, India, and immigrated to the United States with her parents in 1976. She received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Maryland and a Juris Doctorate from Syracuse University College of Law. Manisha practiced real estate law at Shulman, Rogers, et al. before retiring following the birth of her second daughter.

After retiring from law, Manisha dedicated herself to philanthropic and community leadership. She chaired numerous fundraising galas for Sibley Hospital and the Meridian International Center and raised funds for the National Cathedral School. 

Today, Manisha is the Co-founder and President of The Kapani Family Foundation, established in 2018. Through grants and philanthropic efforts, the Foundation strengthens social institutions focused on health, education, spiritual and civic engagement. The Foundation prioritizes institutions having an immediate, positive impact on their local communities. 

Beyond her leadership at the Foundation, Manisha is directly involved in governance at several institutions that impact her community. Manisha serves as a Member of the Sibley Hospital Foundation Board, Collegiate Directions Board, DC Prep Advisory Board, and sits on the Leadership Council of the Meridian International Center.

Outside Washington, DC, Manisha serves as an Ambassador for the Nantucket Cottage Hospital and actively participates in her Naples, Florida, community through her role on the Sustaining Leadership Council of the Naples Botanical Gardens.

Manisha and her husband, Roy, have two girls, Natalia, 27, who recently graduated Harvard Law School, and Emma, 24, a recent graduate of The University of Chicago; both now reside in New York.