Shyam Kumar is a junior in the School of Arts and Sciences at Rutgers University–New Brunswick, pursuing a double major in Political Science and Economics. During the summer after his sophomore year, Shyam became involved with the RU Voting Initiative, serving as a Voting Ambassador to help increase student voter engagement. That same summer, he joined the Eagleton Institute of Politics as a Digital Content Creator for the Center for Youth Political Participation, a role he continued through his junior year, creating civic education content and promoting political awareness among young voters.
In addition, Shyam served as a Policy Fellow with the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), where he contributed to the successful passage of the Hindu Heritage Month Resolution in the State of New Jersey and supported federal legislative efforts such as H.Res.1131 in the 118th Congress and H.Res.69 in the 119th Congress, which aim to address anti-Hindu bigotry. He now serves as a Youth Action Network (CYAN) leader for CoHNA in New Jersey, helping organize student advocacy efforts.
In the summer of 2025, Shyam was selected as a member of the Rutgers Scarlet Service in DC cohort. As a Legislative Intern in the U.S. House of Representatives in the office of Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13), he assisted with a range of responsibilities including answering constituent calls, drafting policy memos and correspondence, tracking legislation, and attending briefings, hearings, and stakeholder events on Capitol Hill. This immersive experience deepened his understanding of the legislative process and strengthened his commitment to a career in public service.
Shyam serves as President of the Rutgers Bhakti Club and enjoys playing intramural volleyball. He looks forward to continuing his public service journey and contributing to policy and civic life at both the state and national levels through the Lloyd C. Gardner Fellowship program.