Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has appointed Indian-American educator Anupa Shantaram to the Michigan Board of Pharmacy as a representative of the general public.
According to the governor’s office, Shantaram’s term began on August 20, 2026, and is scheduled to continue until June 30, 2030. She succeeds Kelli Oldham, whose term has expired. The appointment remains subject to the advice and consent of the Michigan Senate.
Shantaram is a school-improvement coordinator with Flint Community Schools. She also serves as the diversity, equity and inclusion commissioner for Genesee County.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in education with a concentration in social science and a Master of Arts in early-childhood education. Both qualifications were earned at the University of Michigan.
The Michigan Board of Pharmacy oversees the practice of pharmacy under the state’s Public Health Code. Its responsibilities include supporting the safe and effective prescribing, dispensing and administration of medicines while protecting public health and welfare.
Shantaram’s selection adds an Indian-American voice to a state body responsible for oversight in an important area of healthcare regulation.
