Alumni Couple Fund Graduate Fellowships In UT Dallas
India-West News Desk
RICHARDSON, TX -Nishi and Jyoti P. Bhatia have established a new endowment at The University of Texas at Dallas to support graduate students through a fellowship while also funding a collaborative learning space in the university’s Engineering and Computer Science West building.
The gift creates the Nishi and Jyoti P. Bhatia Fellowship, which will provide financial assistance to graduate students who have demonstrated ability and determination but face financial barriers. The university said the first fellowship recipients will be selected this fall.
A first-floor study area in the Engineering and Computer Science West building has also been named the Nishi and Jyoti P. Bhatia Collaboration Space in recognition of the couple’s contribution.
Speaking at the dedication, Nishi Bhatia said the recognition was especially meaningful.
“We are honored to have our names associated with this collaboration space, and we accept this recognition with gratitude, appreciation and pride,” she said.
She said the fellowship was created to help deserving students whose financial circumstances might otherwise limit their educational opportunities.
“Education remains one of the most powerful ways to transform lives. It allows individuals to develop their talents, expand their horizons, and build a better future for themselves and their families,” she said.
Jyoti P. Bhatia, who earned a master’s degree in international management studies from UT Dallas in 1977, said the university has remained an important part of the family’s life.
“I earned my graduate degree here, and later, two of our children also graduated from UT Dallas. Because of that connection, this university holds a special place in our hearts,” he said.
Jyoti Bhatia has also been active with organizations including the Hindu Temple of North Texas, the India Association of North Texas, the Asian Chamber of Texas and Lions Clubs International. Nishi Bhatia studied at the University of Kentucky before becoming an educator with the Plano Independent School District. The couple said their own experiences inspired them to help future generations of students.
Tracy Ferguson, director of development for the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, said the Bhatias’ generosity would create opportunities for students for years to come.
Nishi Bhatia said financial assistance can remove obstacles, allowing students to focus on learning, research and innovation, and expressed hope that recipients would one day help others in turn.
