Georgia Tech Celebrates Prof. Shamkant Navathe’s Legacy

India-West Staff Reporter

ATLANTA, GA  – Georgia Tech honored Prof. Shamkant B. Navathe for his 50 years of academic contributions, including 34 years at the university, with a celebratory luncheon and the launch of “The Shamkant B. Navathe Distinguished Lecture Series.” Navathe was also inducted into the College of Computing Hall of Fame during the event.

Navathe, recognized for his groundbreaking work in database systems, expressed gratitude for the recognition. “I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked with such brilliant colleagues at Georgia Tech,” he said, noting his enduring passion for learning.

A pioneer in computer science education, Navathe co-authored the textbook Fundamentals of Database Systems, a global standard since its first publication in 1989. Now in its seventh edition and translated into 12 languages, the book has influenced countless students worldwide and remains a key resource in the field.

The event featured tributes from Navathe’s family. His son, Dr. Amol Navathe, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania, delivered a lecture on health policy and technology, while his daughter, Dr. Manisha Panchal, a pediatrician in the Bay Area, shared reflections on her father’s mentorship. Navathe also acknowledged the support of his wife, Aruna Navathe, a pediatric nutritionist who has served at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta for 30 years.

Navathe transitions into the role of Professor Emeritus at Georgia Tech’s College of Computing, leaving a legacy of academic excellence and global impact in computer science education.

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