We are so thrilled to announce four new additions to our team: Shirley Cai as Communications Manager, Gina Chung as Programs Manager, Misha Ponnuraju as Finance, Operations, and Grants Assistant, and Shan Rao as Development Associate.

Shirley Cai is a writer and communications specialist, with a background in marketing, media production, and social media strategy. Originally from Australia, she invested in sharing stories that explore home and movement. She is also the Assistant Editor and Art Director for the multicultural food journal Peddler. She brings enthusiasm and creativity to our communications department.

Gina Chung has previously worked at PEN America, the New York City Campaign Finance Board, Penguin Random House, and Oxford University Press. We're excited to have her join us as Programs Manager to help run online classes, events, and more! She is also the author of SEA CHANGE (Vintage, April 11, 2023) and GREEN FROG (Vintage, February 2024).

Misha Ponnuraju began her journey with us as Programs Intern in 2021 before joining us in the Finance, Operations, and Grants department. Misha is also a writer and the Community Manager for Foglifter Press and Journal, a literary magazine centers and celebrates queer and trans voices.

Shan Rao is passionate about creating a welcoming and affirming space for Asian American writers and writers of color. Before joining us as an enthusiastic Development Associate, she was a Kundiman Grants intern (2019–2020) and has done contract work for the organization. Shan's writing has won the Margaret Lamb Writing to the Right-Hand Margin Award and Suzanna Cohen Legacy Prize.

We are so grateful to have such a lovely team and to be able to expand the Kundiman community and mission in supporting Asian American writers and writers of color. You can read more about their bios!