BITS Pilani alumna donates $1 million to endowment fund

Usha Kumar, residing in the United Kingdom, created a milestone by becoming the inaugural female benefactor from BITS Pilani to donate a sum of $1 million.

The alumni of BITS Pilani have generously donated a total of $2 million to their alma mater. Notably, Usha Kumar, a graduate from the class of 1967, and Alok Kothari, an alumnus from the year 1988, have joined forces to contribute this significant amount to the institution’s $100 Million Endowment Fund. Their donation is designated to support scholarships for female students, fund PhD fellowships, and facilitate the creation of a Center of Excellence focusing on Sustainability.

Usha Kumar, residing in the United Kingdom, has etched her name in the annals of history by becoming the inaugural female benefactor from BITS Pilani to generously donate a staggering $1 million. Her substantial financial pledge is earmarked to bolster scholarships for female students and fund doctoral fellowships. “It is our ardent wish that our endowment will empower deserving underprivileged children, with a special emphasis on girls, to pursue their academic aspirations at BITS Pilani, ensuring that the institution continues to shine in imparting excellent education to the younger generation,” expressed Usha Kumar.

Alok Kothari, the First Executive Officer of the renowned firm Netskope Inc., has generously contributed $1 million towards establishing the Centre of Excellence in Sustainability. His vision extends beyond just introducing innovative solutions; it aims to nurture future leaders dedicated to safeguarding the planet for upcoming generations. Anticipating active involvement from students and faculty, the center will delve into sustainable practices and spearhead impactful changes locally and globally. This endeavor mirrors BITS’s core values of education, stewardship, and accountability. Alok envisions the CoE as a hub that fosters a sustainability-driven culture, motivating others to rethink their interaction with the environment and build a more sustainable and promising future for all.

BITS Pilani stated that the institute has witnessed a surge in alumni involvement, with pledges exceeding $20 million and significant fund transfers in recent times, solidifying its position among the top five institutions in the country in terms of alumni contributions.