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Endowed Scholarship Fulfills UT Student's Passion for Education
8 Apr
Summary
- Family and friends establish endowed scholarship at UT.
- The goal is to raise $500,000 to support students from Title I schools.
- The scholarship aims to create a sustainable cycle of educational support.

Friends and family of Savitha Shanmugasundaram, a 21-year-old University of Texas student, are channeling their grief into action a month after her death. They are actively fundraising to create an endowed scholarship at the university, specifically for students from Title I schools. This initiative directly reflects Savitha's deep-seated passion for ensuring educational access for underprivileged students.
The ambitious goal is to raise $500,000, which will be matched by the university through The Texas Challenge program, culminating in a $1 million endowment. This substantial fund is projected to support eight to ten students annually, offering them vital financial aid. The scholarship is designed to create a lasting legacy, allowing recipients to 'pay it forward' to subsequent generations, thereby continuing Savitha's commitment to education.
Her father, Shan Muthian, emphasized that the scholarship ensures Savitha's legacy remains vibrant, fulfilling her dream of serving those with fewer opportunities. For her friends, this endowment is a powerful testament to her caring nature and the significant impact she had on those around her, extending her influence through continued support and education.