An elementary school in Texas, United States (US) is slated to be named after Indian-American Sonal Bhuchar, in a bid to immortalise her legacy in education and philanthropy.
The Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD) Board of Trustees unanimously approved the decision to name the upcoming elementary school after her. The school will open on 23 January, in the Riverstone community of Texas.
Who Is Sonal Bhuchar?
Sonal Bhuchar, originally from Mumbai, was a professional physiotherapist and had a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy from Bombay University.
She, along with her husband Subodh Kumar, had immigrated to Houston in 1984.
Bhuchar was, as per PTI, a popular community activist and leader and was elected to the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees for six years. She went on to serve as the Board President for a period of two years, as well.
While part of the FBISD board, Bhuchar led many district initiatives, including the Student Leadership Programme, the Legislative Advocacy Programme, the Fort Bend Education Foundation’s Annual International Festival, a lifestyle education programme and scholarship opportunities.
In 2015 the governor of Texas appointed Bhuchar to the One Star National Service Commission Board.
Sonal Bhuchar died due to cancer complications at the age of 58 in 2019.
Thrilled about the honour being granted to her posthumously, Dr Subodh, her husband, a reputed physician and a community leader told PTI:
“Sonal was a quiet but effective warrior, who weaved a path for generations of young women and men to follow. She led by example and showed them that their way to succeed in life is to give, without expecting anything in return. She ensured that her actions would lead to changes that would benefit all.”
(With inputs from PTI)
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