Vivek Malek, Missouri’s 48th State Treasurer, was sworn into office on January 17, 2023, after appointment by Governor Michael Parson to fill the unexpired term of former treasurer and current State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick. Treasurer Malek was elected to a full term as state treasurer in November 2024. He is the first person of color to serve in and be elected to statewide office in Missouri history. Arriving in Missouri on August 11, 2001, after the first plane trip of his life, he had two suitcases and $300 in his pocket. At Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, he worked as a graduate assistant and earned his MBA degree. Later, Treasurer Malek received a Master of Law (LL.M) degree from the University of Illinois College of Law in Champaign. After graduation, Treasurer Malek returned to Missouri and began practicing law in St. Louis. He built a successful business devoted to helping other legal immigrants achieve their American dreams. In January 2020, he was appointed by Governor Parson as a member of the Southeast Missouri State University Board of Governors. He served in this capacity until his appointment as State Treasurer.