Sukhada Fadnavis, an Indian-origin mathematician, has decided to start a fellowship at her alma mater Caltech (California Institute of Technology), in the name of her parents -- Shubhangi and Sharad Fadnavis Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship. The fellowship will support undergraduate students conducting research through the Institute's signature program.
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"The most important thing my parents did for me was let me explore. They didn't try to change me or force me down a path," Sukhada said. "Caltech was also a place where I could be myself. It allows you to keep your inner child alive and come out of your shell. Caltech made me feel like this is my place. I want others to get that same opportunity to experience this environment."
"I love the idea that my daughter and nieces will remember my parents in connection with something rooted in knowledge and research that ultimately benefits society," Fadnavis said. "We look forward to learning about the SURF projects supported through this fellowship for many years to come."
Bringing Caltech and parents together
Fadnavis said her parents never stopped her from dreaming big, though she was the first in her Pune-based family to travel by airplane, she was the first to go abroad for college. Caltech's financial aid program helped her and now it's her time to give back to her alma mater. "My father made sure I knew they were always here for me," Fadnavis said. "My mom was a very brave person. She said 'We'll figure it out. Jump!''
