$1 Million Jain Studies Professorship Established At UT-Austin
India-West Staff Reporter
HOUSTON, TX – The Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA) has partnered with the University of Texas at Austin to establish the Tirthankar Sumatinath Distinguished Professorship in Jain Studies. This new endowed position was funded by a $1 million gift from the JAINA Academic Liaison Committee, making it the 24th professorship of its kind established by the ALC.
The announcement was made at a celebratory event on July 19 at the Jain Vishwa Bharati (JVB) Center in Houston. The program was attended by six UT-Austin faculty members, local leaders, and more than 100 Jain community members. The professorship will be based in the Department of Asian Studies within the College of Liberal Arts and will support year-round courses and research.
“Jainism’s timeless values such as Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantavada (respect for multiple perspectives), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness and sustainable living) are not only relevant today but essential for addressing global challenges,” said Dr. Sulekh C. Jain, ALC founder.
The professorship will report to Professor Donald R. Davis, Chair of the Department of Religious Studies, and will enhance academic programming in non-violence, ethics, and environmental sustainability. UT-Austin faculty, including College of Liberal Arts Dean Dr. David Sosa, highlighted that the gift will also enable greater outreach to local high schools, community colleges, and interfaith organizations.
Philanthropist Dr. Jasvant Modi of Los Angeles, a lead benefactor of the professorships, spoke about the evolution of the Jain diaspora: “From building temples to now building centers of learning, the community is investing in peace, nurturing compassionate global citizens, and shaping resilient communities for generations to come.”
D.C. Manjunatha, Consul General of India in Houston, congratulated the communities, while Houston City Councilwoman Tiffany D. Thomas applauded the initiative to promote non-violence, truth, and compassion. Dr. Manish Mehta, Vice-Chair of the ALC, noted that Jainism’s ancient philosophy offers a science-based framework for ethical living and environmental stewardship.
