Sukhda Fadnavis with her parents and then Caltech President Jean-Le Chameau at graduation in 2007.
Sukhda Fadnavis, a mathematician of Indian origin, 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 Research Fellowship for Undergraduates.
The fellowship will support undergraduate students conducting research through the Institute’s signature program.“The most important thing my parents did for me was to let me explore,” Sukhda said. “They didn’t try to change me or force me down the road.” “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 have the same opportunity to experience this environment.”“I love the idea of my daughter and nieces remembering my father in terms of something rooted in knowledge and research that ultimately benefits society,” Fadnavis said. “We look forward to recognizing 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, even though she was the first in her family living in Pune to travel by plane, and she was the first to go abroad for college. Caltech’s financial aid program has helped her and now it’s time to give back to her alma mater. “My parents made sure I knew they were always there for me,” Fadnavis said. “My mom was a very brave person. She said, ‘We’ll figure it out. Jump!’“I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to study at Caltech and take advantage of its unique programs like SURF. SURF is one of Caltech’s most distinguished programs, giving undergraduates the opportunity to spend the summer conducting original research and making real contributions to their fields. If you know an undergraduate who would enjoy a fun and intellectually challenging research experience, they should definitely check out SURF.”
So grateful to be able to honor my father while supporting future generations of inquisitive minds through this fellowship!” Sukhda wrote.
Who is Sukhda Fadnavis?
After earning her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Caltech in 2007, Fadnavis earned her Ph.D. at Stanford University. She wanted to stay in academia and taught mathematics for three years at Harvard. She then spent a year helping a friend with a startup promoting Indian artists, and eventually joined Google.
