UT Scholarship Fund Set Up In Honor Of Savitha, Killed In Shooting
India-West News Desk
AUSTIN, TX – A scholarship fund is being set up by family and friends of Savitha Shanmugasundaram, with the University of Texas at Austin committing to match the total raised, creating a permanent endowment in her name.
The initiative comes weeks after the 21-year-old senior was killed in a mass shooting on March 1 at Buford’s on 6th Street in downtown Austin. Shanmugasundaram, a dual degree honors student, was among three people who died in the attack, which also left 14 others injured.
Family and friends say the fund is intended to carry forward her commitment to education and service. Administered by the university, it aims to support students with financial need, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. The goal is to raise $500,000, which will be matched through the Texas Challenge program to establish a $1 million endowment expected to benefit eight to 10 students annually.
A senior at the McCombs School of Business, Shanmugasundaram was deeply involved on campus, including serving on the executive board of the Indian Students Association. She was also a four-time Taco Bell Live Más scholar and was known for her focus on expanding access to education.
University officials and community members have described her as driven, compassionate, and committed to making a difference.
In a statement issued shortly after her death, her parents described her as a bright and caring young woman dedicated to academic excellence, community service, and helping others. They also expressed gratitude for the support they have received while asking for privacy as they grieve.
Authorities identified the gunman as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne of Pflugerville, who was also killed. Another victim, 19-year-old Ryder Harrington, died at the scene, while 30-year-old Jorge Pederson died the following day after being taken off life support.
The scholarship fund is now accepting donations and will be managed as a long-term endowment, with organizers hoping it will keep Shanmugasundaram’s legacy alive by opening doors for future students.
Donate here: https://give.utexas.edu/campaigns/59328/donations/new?designation_id=OGPSAVITHASHAN%F0%9F%A4%8D
