Indian Americans continue to build a strong legacy of giving back to their alma maters in India and the US. This generous act often stems from their success and gratitude, like the Gambhir Family Trust’s $4 million and the Jivrajka Family Foundation’s $2 million contribution to the University of California. However, some humanitarian deeds originate from loss and bereavement.
The grief-stricken family of Savitha Shanmugasundaram, who died in a mass shooting in Texas on March 1, has announced to institute a scholarship in her memory. They will endow a US$ 1 million scholarship at her alma mater, the University of Texas, Austin, for meritorious students from Title 1 schools (federally funded public schools). It would not only keep her alive in public memory but also make her dream come true – to help underprivileged students.
Who was Savitha Shanmugasundaram in the US? She was a promising 21-year-old Indian American student at the University of Texas. Born to Indian immigrants, she was their beloved daughter and the only child. Like her immigrant parents who built their lives on education and perseverance in America, she valued hard work, stability, and giving back. She was pursing a dual degree in Management Information Systems and Economics.
She was just months away from graduating and wearing the convocation gown in 2026. A job opportunity was in the pipeline reflecting her bright future. Her LinkedIn profile reflects her passion for solving complex business problems through technology. She had gained hands-on experience in technology strategy consulting, product management, and business analytics through internships in the corporate world.
Before Savitha Shan could see the best of her career and fulfil her dreams, she was gunned down during a mass shooting in Austin’s West Sixth Street Entertainment district on March 1, 2026. A gunman opened fire to a crowd, claiming four lives, including hers. Her untimely, unpleasant demise left her parents devastated in grief and sorrow.
At the UT campus in Austin, Savitha was known as more than just a diligent student. Her professors described her as a “superstar student”, who stood out in both performance and presence. She was disciplined, consistent, and thoughtful in her approaches to dealing with everyday problems. At the same time, she was known for her helping nature. Friends and classmates remembered her as someone who showed up for others without being asked.
In the days following the demise of Savitha Shan, her family chose to respond with action. They are close to raising $500,000, which the university will match to create a $1M endowment. The Savitha Shan scholarship is not just a tribute. It is a continuation of someone who no longer exists physically. Students who will benefit from the scholarship would carry forward a part of her story.
