Kevin Rudd: The Asia-Pacific Century

Vishakha N. Desai is the sixth president of the Asia Society, assuming the position in July 2004. As chief executive officer, she is responsible for managing an international organization with offices throughout the U.S. and Asia. She sets the direction for the Society’s programs in the diverse fields of arts, culture, policy, business and education, overseeing a budget of $22 million.

Since 1990, Dr. Desai has served the Asia Society in various leadership capacities, most recently as Senior Vice President and Director of the Museum and Cultural Programs. She was responsible for the management of the Society’s $40 million renovation of its New York City headquarters and for its 2001 inaugural season. The new facilities have generated a marked growth and diversification of the Society’s programming, audiences and funding sources.