Dr. Santosh Kumar, associate professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences, recently received the prestigious honor, “Mahatma Gandhi Pravasi Samman” or the “Mahatma Gandhi Non-resident Indian Honor” from the Non-resident Indian (NRI) Welfare Society of India. The NRI society of India presents this honor to promote unity, progress, friendship, and co-operation. The honor is presented to a handful of NRIs every year. The advisory committee of Mahatma Gandhi Pravasi Samman is comprised of many eminent personalities including current central government ministers, former prime ministers of India, state governors, election commissioners, and Central Bureau of Investigation directors. The honor is presented by the President of India, Pranab Mukherjee.
Dr. Kumar was recognized for his outstanding service, contribution, and achievements in research with HIV-1 and substance of abuse, teaching and mentoring students, national and international service and recognition, and for inspiring others. In addition to his strong contribution to research, teaching, and service through his professional work, Dr. Kumar has inspired numerous students and children through teaching, mentoring, and motivating them. He is passionate about inspiring and bringing out the best in “Gen iY” (young generation who are born in the internet age after 1990).
Dr. Kumar’s motto is “To Do Better Than Our Best”. Most of us hide behind the famous saying, “I will do or did my best”. But, what if my best is not enough? I need to relentlessly find a way to do it better. Dr. Kumar also promotes to “Love What You Do, and Do What You Love”.