Kinnery Shah has proven herself an effective leader as the current Cultural Affairs commissioner.
With her extensive knowledge of how USAC functions, her passion for programming events and her ability to successfully work with others, Shah will likely have a strong second year as commissioner. Though this board had concerns that Shah might suffer burnout from running for the same position again, her interview quelled all apprehensions and made clear her dedication to the CAC office.
Shah clearly empathizes with the financial struggles student groups face when dealing with facility costs on campus and funding when putting on events. Generally, her platforms build on the existing programs the office has instituted this year and are useful for students while remaining feasible.
Examples are Venue Valuing, which seeks to make the finances and locations of various venues easily accessible to students, and the Art of Healthy Living, which seeks to increase student wellness through cooking classes and exposure to cultural fitness activities.
While this board is endorsing Shah, we would like to state that her opponent Ashley Cartwright is also well-qualified and has compelling platform ideas. It is Shah’s extensive experience as the current commissioner that gives her practical knowledge of USAC and the campus, and thus the board’s endorsement.