About Usha
Serving on the Manhattan City Commission for 10 years and being a public-school teacher for 18 years have prepared me for the Kansas Senate. I have a strong relationship with my community and have earned their trust during those years. As a public servant, I believe collaborations, partnerships, and thoughtful decision making are essential to being an effective leader.
My family immigrated from India to the United States in 1973 when I was eight years old, and I grew up primarily in Columbus, OH along with my two brothers. Manhattan has been my home for more than 30 years. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Developmental Psychology from the Ohio State University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Kansas State University.
Putting My Experience
to Work
I served as city commissioner for the City of Manhattan since 2013 to 2023.
I was Mayor in 2016-2017 and in 2020 and worked closely with Kansas State University, Fort Riley, Manhattan Area of Chamber of Commerce, Manhattan-Ogden USD383 and social service organizations in the community to ensure economic vitality and the well-being of residents.
Public service is the will to listen and hear from individuals who will feel the most impact on the ground from laws voted on in Topeka.
I am accessible and approachable, and I value being part of the policy making process.
Democracy works best when everyone participates, and I have a broad reach to individuals, families, businesses, non-profits, and many organizations.
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I look forward to your support.
It is an honor to represent District 22 in the Kansas State Senate.