IN MEMORY OF VED SHRAVAH | 1944 - 2026

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Ved Shravah began his academic journey at Bareilly College, earning a Bachelor's degree in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Driven by a lifelong passion for learning, he went on to earn a Master's degree in Physics from Bareilly and a Master's degree in Mathematics from Nainital.

At just 25 years old, Ved began his career as a Professor of Mathematics. Soon after, he embraced a life-changing opportunity to teach abroad, leaving his homeland of India on May 24, 1970, to begin a new chapter in the Fiji Islands.

Ved's first teaching position in Fiji was at DAV College, where his passion for mathematics and physics quickly earned him the respect of students and colleagues alike. Within a short time, he was appointed Head of the Mathematics and Science Departments, building a reputation for academic excellence and inspirational leadership.

During his years in Fiji, Ved developed a deep commitment to philanthropy, working to expand educational opportunities for underserved communities. He later joined the University of the South Pacific in Western Samoa as a Professor of Mathematics and Physics, where he continued to mentor students, support those in need, and help create pathways to education for future generations.

After moving to the United States in 1984, Ved became a professor in Iowa, where he shared his deep expertise in mathematics and physics. He later settled in Dutchess County, New York, teaching at several colleges within the SUNY system and beyond. Known for his dedication to academic excellence, he inspired and supported generations of students.

Beyond the classroom, Ved devoted more than 16 years to the Wappingers Central School District Board of Education, serving in several leadership roles. A respected and trusted community leader, he championed innovative initiatives to expand educational opportunities for students and was repeatedly reelected by overwhelming margins. He also served on the Dutchess County BOCES Board of Education, helping strengthen educational programs across the region.

Ved has been actively involved in a wide range of community organizations spanning political, educational, and religious spheres. He has served in various leadership roles, including Board Member, Director, Treasurer and Council Leader.

Ved held various roles at at New York State Employees Association, PEF Div 194, Wappingers Central School District Board of Education, the Arya Samaj Organizations, Hindu Temple Society, the Lions Club, PEF Indo-American Committee, Tricia Indian Association and many others more.

After spending years in Dutchess County, Ved moved to Albany to pursue a career with the New York State Education Department.

Ved later earned a PhD in Education, deepening his expertise in teaching and educational leadership. Throughout his career, he remained committed to academic excellence, community service, and lifelong learning, inspiring countless students, colleagues, and educators along the way. 

My dad, whom I lovingly call Papa, is one of the most courageous men I know. He retired on August 14, 2025 and soon after began treatment for cancer. Throughout an incredibly difficult year, he never gave up and kept fighting with remarkable strength and determination.  I often called him a Lion and reminded him that even when a lion is injured, it doesn’t become anything less, it remains a lion.

I was by his side for much of that time, working with him daily to support his physical recovery. At one point, I brought him home so he could heal in a familiar, comforting environment. That period became one of his favorites in his final year. We laughed, made plans, exercised together, shared meals, and even took the occasional quick trip to McDonald’s.

Amid countless doctor appointments and physical and occupational therapy sessions, we also rediscovered and deepened our bond as father and son in a new and meaningful way.

Starting in January 2026, my sister, brother, and I worked around the clock to help my dad regain his strength and return to a sense of normalcy. 

Despite his courageous fight, my Papa passed away at the age of 82, taking his final breath in my arms.

We will miss you Papa!  You will always be a Lion! - Aash Shravah