AUSTIN, Texas (Diya TV) — The family of 21-year-old Indian-origin student Savitha Shanmugasundaram is working to honor her life by expanding access to education for others. A month after she was killed in a March 1 shooting, her loved ones have launched a fundraising effort to create a permanent scholarship in her name at the University of Texas. The initiative aims to support students from Title I schools. These schools serve communities with high numbers of low-income families. Organizers say the scholarship reflects Savitha’s deep commitment to helping underserved students succeed.

Savitha’s family and friends plan to raise $500,000 to establish the endowed scholarship. The university will match that amount through the Texas Challenge program. Together, the funds will create a $1 million endowment.

Once established, the scholarship is expected to support eight to 10 students each year. The fund will provide long-term financial aid. It will help students who may not otherwise have access to higher education opportunities. According to a report by the Austin American-Statesman, the scholarship will be managed as a permanent endowment by the university. Donations are already being accepted.

Savitha’s parents say the scholarship is a way to keep her spirit alive. Her father, Shan Muthian, said the effort reflects her passion for service.

“It makes sure her legacy is alive,” he told the Austin American-Statesman. “She’s passionate about serving underprivileged students. So by creating the endowed scholarship, her dream is coming true.”

Her mother shared a similar sentiment. She said the family continues to celebrate Savitha’s life and values.

“We are still celebrating her,” she said. “Her memory remains a part of everything we do.”

The family believes the scholarship will turn grief into something meaningful. They want it to create opportunities for students who share Savitha’s determination and values.

Friends say Savitha cared deeply about others. They describe her as someone who always looked for ways to give back. The scholarship reflects that spirit.

“The endowment is really just highlighting how much she cared about other people,” one of her close friends said.

Her father added that the initiative goes beyond financial support. He said it aims to build a cycle of giving.

“The students who get the fellowship can pay it forward to the next generation,” he said. “So that the chain continues.”

This vision focuses on long-term impact. It encourages recipients to support others in the future. Organizers say this approach aligns with Savitha’s belief in community and shared success.

The scholarship will target students from Title I schools. These students often face financial barriers. Many lack access to resources that support college readiness. By providing consistent funding, the endowment will help bridge that gap. 

It will allow students to focus on their education without financial stress. Savitha’s family says this mission was central to her life. She believed education could change lives. She wanted to make it more accessible for those who needed it most. The scholarship aims to continue that work. It seeks to open doors for future generations.

Organizers say the response to the fundraising effort has been encouraging. Friends, family members, and community supporters have come together to contribute. The university will oversee the fund. It will ensure that the endowment supports students for years to come. As a permanent fund, it will continue to grow and provide assistance long into the future. Savitha’s loved ones say the initiative serves as both a tribute and a mission. It honors her memory while continuing her work.

For them, the scholarship represents hope. It turns a tragic loss into an opportunity to help others succeed. They say this effort is not just about remembering Savitha. It is about carrying forward her belief in education, compassion, and giving back.