WASHINGTON, D.C., February 10, 2003 -– Peace Corps Chief Information Officer Gopal Khanna delivered the keynote address at the India Association on Minnesota’s (IAM) Annual Community Dinner on February 9, 2003. Mr. Khanna addressed the guests on the topic of “Indian Americans in Public Life.”

This year’s theme centered around “Remembering 30 Years of IAM.” Originally founded in 1973 as the India Club of Minnesota, IAM is a non-profit organization that seeks to build a sense of identity and community among people who are of Indian origin or who have an interest in India.

Mr. Khanna, a Minnesotan originally from Kanpur, India, has served as CIO of the Peace Corps since June 17, 2002. Prior to his service at the Peace Corps, Gopal Khanna was president & CEO of ITC, a Minneapolis based technology solutions firm. The firm specializes in providing IT process improvement, building customized optimization tools, and implementing information systems projects for Fortune 1000 companies.

Mr. Khanna has had a long history of civic and charitable involvement. He frequently writes and speaks on issues related to information technology, global markets, Indo-U.S. relations, and diversity management. He actively participates in several professional organizations and has chaired many community initiatives.

Since 1961, more than 168,000 volunteers have served in the Peace Corps, working in such diverse fields as education, health and HIV/AIDS education and awareness, information technology, business development, the environment, and agriculture. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a two-year commitment.