BALTIMORE—Irfan Malik, the first Muslim president of the ICJS Board of Trustees, has been named an emeritus trustee following a unanimous vote by the current Board. He becomes the 14th person to receive this honor.
Malik took the helm of the ICJS Board in 2020, helping the organization to navigate the challenges of the global COVID-19 pandemic as it swiftly transitioned all programs online. During his tenure, ICJS programming not only adapted but thrived, with significant growth in its three signature fellowships, the launch of several new initiatives, and the completion of a rigorous strategic planning process—all while maintaining financial stability.
“Irfan exemplified calm and steady leadership during one of the most uncertain times in our history,” said Heather Miller Rubens, ICJS executive director and Roman Catholic scholar. “His ability to navigate the pandemic’s challenges while expanding our programs and ensuring wise financial stewardship has positioned ICJS for future growth. We are deeply grateful for his vision and dedication.”
A native of Lahore, Pakistan and a naturalized U.S. citizen, Malik received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore, and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Monash University, Melbourne, Australia. He worked in telecommunication product development for 23 years and was among the first employees of telecommunication equipment manufacturer Ciena, starting as a product design engineer and rising to the position of senior director.
He left Ciena in 2001 to pursue social and community volunteer efforts, working on issues important to Pakistani Americans, in particular assisting Pakistani American youth, promoting US-Pakistan relations, and improving the image of American Muslims. Among other positions, he served as president of the USPAK Foundation, as executive director and board member of the Pakistan American Public Affairs Committee (PAKPAC), and as a charter member and board director of the Organization of Pakistani Entrepreneurs. In his local community, he served as president of the Howard County Muslim Council and on Howard County Executive transition teams on Citizen Services and Economic Development.
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About ICJS
To disarm religious bias and bigotry, the Institute for Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Studies (ICJS) builds learning communities where religious difference becomes a powerful force for good. ICJS envisions an interreligious society in which dialogue replaces division, friendship overcomes fear, and education eradicates ignorance. Through educational programming, public-facing scholarship, and relationship-centered fellowships and workshops, ICJS models a new conversation in the public square that affirms religious diversity in the United States. ICJS is an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. More information is at www.icjs.org.