Biden appoints Pakistani-American Shahid Ahmed Khan for ‘prestigious advisory role’

• White House confirms development via statement issued on May 12.
• Shahid Ahmed Khan is an illustrious personality within Greater Boston area.
• Appointment is a tribute to meaningful contributions of Pakistani-Americans.

BOSTON: US President Joe Biden's has appointed Shahid Ahmed Khan to the prestigious President’s Advisory Committee on the Arts (PACA), the White House confirmed via a statement released on May 12, The News reported Sunday.

Annoucning the nomination, the White House said: "For more than two decades Khan’s professional life has been tied to international affairs, with a particular focus on the Asian and Muslim world. 

"His experience has centered on advancing US values and principles through constructive community engagement with the American-Muslim and South Asian communities".

Khan, in an exclusive interview, told the publication that he was thrilled to be nominated for this coveted post as for him art has immense power to bridge cultural divide. 

Shedding light on his new role, Khan said: "His focus will be to promote South Asian art in the United States of America."

Who is Shahid Ahmed Khan?

Khan is an illustrious personality within the Greater Boston area. He brings to PACA a rich tapestry of experience spanning over two decades. His focus on the Asian and Muslim world is reflected in his tireless work as a community leader, political adviser, and entrepreneur, advocating for US values and principles through sustained dialogue and engagement.

Khan's illustrious career trajectory includes significant roles as a Trustee for the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee and as an Advisory Board Member of the Democratic National Committee. His pivotal role as the National Finance Co-Chair for John Kerry's 2004 Presidential campaign and his subsequent advisory roles across a myriad of US campaigns underscore his strategic acumen and dedication to public service.

Moreover, Khan was instrumental in galvanizing the South Asian-American community during Biden's presidential campaign. A recognised luminary in South Asian affairs, Khan has also founded Triconboston Consulting Corporation, lending his expertise to companies within the renewable energy, IT, and healthcare sectors.

"The addition of Khan to the President's Advisory Committee on the Arts is a cause for celebration," a representative for PACA expressed. "His rich experiences, profound insights, and unique perspective promise to amplify our mission and extend our influence immeasurably."

No doubt, Khan’s appointment is a tribute to the meaningful contributions of Pakistani-Americans to the social and cultural fabric of U.S. society, showcasing the influential role they continue to play in shaping the nation's future

What is PACA?

According to the White House, the PACA has played a valuable role in sustaining the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the National Cultural Center.

Members of the committee are civic and cultural leaders who are selected by the President of the United States to serve as representatives in their own communities for the Kennedy Centre.

The centre considers PACA appointees to be “Ambassadors for the Arts.” Acting as a national network for the centre, the PACA helps to broaden the centre's influence and extend its vision across the country.

The Committee serves as a national forum, giving its members the opportunity to share with the Kennedy centre their views on the Center’s artistic programming.

An institution steeped in history since its establishment in 1958, PACA has been a steadfast pillar of support for the Performing Arts. It serves as a nationwide lattice, intricately weaving together the nation's artistic consciousness and extending the centre's vision.