Missouri Governor Appoints New State Treasurer: Vivek Malek

India-West News Desk

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Governor Mike Parson announced that he is appointing Indian American Vivek Malek as the next State Treasurer. Media reports indicated that this would make him the first person of color to serve in a statewide office.

Malek, 45, of Wildwood, is a practicing attorney and business owner.

“Vivek’s story is inspiring proof that the American Dream can and will live on for the next generation of Missourians,” Parson said. “President Reagan once said immigrants are one of the greatest sources of American greatness, and both Vivek and I agree. Through our shared values, Vivek helps legal immigrants embrace our nation and achieve their American Dream too. As a Republican, strong capitalist, and conservative Missourian, we know Vivek will be a principled leader who works hard every day to safeguard the people’s money and bring opportunity to Missouri families and their communities.”

Malek will serve for two years before needing to run for the office in 2024 to keep it. His appointment is fill the vacancy created by the election of Treasurer Scott Fitzpatrick to the office of Missouri State Auditor.

Malek said, it was the “honor of my life” to serve in the office.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctorate from Mahrishi Dayanand University in Rohtak, an MBA from Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, and a Master of Laws from the University of Illinois College of Law in Urbana-Champaign, Illinois.

He is married to his wife, Riju, for 18 years and they have three young children together and reside in Wildwood.