Kiran Velpula, an Indian-American professor, has made history by becoming the first Indian to be elected to the at-large council seat in the city of Peoria, Illinois, 188 years after its incorporation.
Peoria County in Illinois has a diverse population, with Asians making up 4.18% of the population, followed by White (Non-Hispanic) at 69.2%, Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) at 17.7%, and White (Hispanic) at 2.8%.
During the election, Kiran Velpula received 3,768.08 votes (equivalent to 16.25%) on the election day, 1,988.33 votes (equivalent to 18.23%) through early voting, and 2,518.75 votes (equivalent to 11.54%) through a vote by mail, with a cumulative total of 8,275.16 votes (equivalent to 14.80%).
The city of Peoria, Illinois has one city council member for each of the five council districts, along with five at-large council members and a mayor.
Voters in Peoria are entitled to a maximum of 5 votes for a candidate, with the number of votes decreasing if they vote for multiple candidates.
In addition to his political achievements, Kiran Velpula also serves on the board of directors for various organizations, including the Center for Prevention of Abuse, EP!C, Neighborhood House, Quest Charter Academy, and WCBU Peoria public radio.
He has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Young Professionals of Illinois in the field of Medical Innovation by Jaycees, and has been a recipient of the 40 Leaders Under 40 award.
According to his website, Kiran Velpula expresses that he has found his American Dream in Peoria, where he has been a resident since 2009.
He has a background in scientific research, with a doctoral degree from the University of Hyderabad and a management degree from Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.
