Houston, TX: A landmark $1 million endowment has been established at the University of Texas at Austin to support the academic study of Jainism, marking a significant advancement for Jain representation in North American academia. The Tirthankar Sumatinath Distinguished Professorship in Jain Studies will be housed in UT Austin’s Department of Asian Studies, becoming the 24th such chair sponsored by the Academic Liaison Committee (ALC) of the Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA). This milestone completes JAINA’s vision to honor all 24 Tirthankaras, the spiritual teachers of Jainism.
The professorship was formally announced during a celebration on July 19 at the Jain Vishwa Bharati Center in Houston. The event brought together over 100 attendees, including UT Austin faculty, community leaders, diplomats, and Jain scholars. The program began with traditional Jain chants led by Samanijis from JVB centers in Houston and Miami.
The professorship will report to Professor Donald R. Davis, Chair of the Department of Religious Studies, and will focus on teaching and research around Jain values such as Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantavada (respect for multiple perspectives), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness). These principles are seen as vital to addressing global challenges, from ethics to environmental sustainability.
Dr. Jasvant Modi, a lead donor, emphasized the community’s transition from building temples to investing in education, calling it a commitment to nurturing compassionate global citizens. UT Austin leaders, including College of Liberal Arts Dean Dr. David Sosa, noted the endowment's potential to expand outreach to schools and interfaith groups. D.C. Manjunatha, Consul General of India in Houston, and Councilwoman Tiffany D. Thomas praised the initiative for promoting peace, truth, and compassion.
(With the input of agencies)
