Spirit of Service

I am hard-pressed to think of anyone more representative of economic, political, social, religious, and moral inclusiveness than Ms. Sonal Shah. I have been proud to call Sonal a friend and colleague since meeting via a mutual United States Treasury coworker some years ago,
and today I write as a member of Indicorps' board of directors. As Indicorps Fellows commit themselves to projects as diverse as youth entrepreneurship, alternative energy, maternal health, and clean water, the very experience combines international development with
opportunities to link their engagement to self-discovery and self-reflection.

Sonal Shah's remarkable track record in the public, private, and independent sectors – from Indicorps to Goldman Sachs to Google.org – not only embodies a commitment to selfless and collaborative service, but also demonstrates leadership as someone who motivates others to
learn and likewise engage where they see need, injustice, or opportunity to effect positive change. Indeed, anyone who has ever had the distinct privilege of getting to know her can attest to this fact, and our remarkable Indicorps Fellows and their experiences demonstrate some of the most authentic examples of Sonal's efforts in practice in our world today. Her long-established and widely-lauded commitment to improving lives and livelihoods, regardless of circumstance, race, ethnicity, religion, or otherwise is worthy of nothing but praise.

Sonal's keen intellect, impeccable credentials, and remarkable experience and expertise are exactly why she is a tremendous asset to President-Elect Obama's transition team – and to any team – now and into the future as we face myriad challenges requiring the input of
just such a visionary thinker and leader. As President-Elect Obama stated in Grant Park on November 4: "we rise or fall…as one people. Let's resist the temptation to fall back on the same partisanship and pettiness and immaturity that has poisoned our politics for so long."
As Americans have come together in historic manner this past election cycle, likewise Indicorps Fellows from diverse faith traditions and geographies come together in service to a common homeland, and while I do not share their Indian heritage, I am honored to be affiliated with
Indicorps, its founders and fellows, and their spirit of service.

Terry Babcock-Lumish
Indicorps Board Member