Patna: Dr Rajiv Sahay, an Indian-American community leader originally from Patna, has been elected president of the St Petersburg International Folk Fair Society (SPIFFS), the organisation announced on April 14.
Sahay’s appointment by the board of directors marks a new chapter for the Florida-based nonprofit, which focuses on promoting multicultural understanding through folk traditions. He has been associated with SPIFFS for several years and is known for his work in community engagement and cultural outreach.
He will lead an executive team that includes Jaroslaw Chomonczuk as vice-president and secretary, Ise Kearney as treasurer, Jaya Eeten as sister city chair, Julia Wang as board member, Steven Barefield as immediate past president, and JoEllen Schilke as executive director.
Founded to celebrate cultural diversity, SPIFFS represents around two dozen cultural groups and organises events highlighting music, dance, cuisine and educational initiatives. The organisation is set to mark its 50th anniversary in 2026.
Sahay is expected to focus on strengthening community ties and advancing the group’s mission of preserving cultural heritage and fostering cross-cultural connections across the Tampa Bay region.
