Dr. Vishakha N. Desai is Special Advisor for Global Affairs to the President of Columbia University and Professor of Practice at its School of International and Public Affairs. She also serves as Senior Advisor for Global Programs to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation. From 1990 through 2012, Dr. Desai served in various capacities at Asia Society, including director of its museum, and president and CEO of the organization. A renowned scholar of Asian art, Dr. Desai is acknowledged for her leadership in presenting contemporary Asian art to American audiences and developing innovative approaches to shaping the relationship between culture and foreign policy in Asia. In addition to featured articles and numerous editorials, Dr. Desai’s major publications include Asian Art History in the 21st century (2008), Gods, Guardians, and Lovers: Temple Sculpture of North India (1993), and Life at Court: Art for India’s Rulers, 16th–19th Centuries (1985). A recipient of five honorary degrees, Dr. Desai holds a BA in political science from Bombay University and an MA and PhD in Asian art history from the University of Michigan.