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News Archives |
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UC College Unveils Plans for the New International
House |
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The objective of the
International House is to help the College take up the challenges of
globalization and International Dependence. The college has exchange
programs with Austin College and Hope College, both of USA. As a result
of this, there will be more faculty and student exchange. There is a
need to provide residential facilities for the visiting international
guests as well as our alumni, facilities that provide international
standards. The International House is expected to provide that. (Read
more about the International House.) |
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2010 |
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Dr. T. Thomas
Philip will be Installed as the New Principal of UCC on
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Dr. T. Thomas Philip, Head of
the Department of Zoology and coordinator of Biotechnology
Division and Bursar of the college
will be installed as the new Principal of U C College on
Saturday, March 20, 2010 at 11:15 AM. The ceremony will take
place at the College Chapel. Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar
Theophilus, Saffragan Metropolitan of Marthoma Church will
deliver the message. He will take charge as the new
principal on April 1, 2010 from the outgoing principal Dr. Varghese
John.
Dr. Thomas Philip is an
internationally recognized expert on Immunoparasitology. He
received his Ph D from University of Guelph, Guelph,
Ontario, Canada. He has done post doctoral fellowship in
Molecular Parasitology at University of Guelp, Canada. He
also did another post doctoral fellowship at University of
British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. Dr. Philip passed with
first ranker at University of Calicut M Sc Zoology. In
addition to his stellar professional career that led to over
17 papers in internationally recognized journals, he is also
the choir master and organist of the UCC Choir.
Take a look at his CV
here.
We wish Dr. Thomas Philip
continued success as the new Principal of UC College.
Invitation from the UC College
Association
Warm greetings from Union Christian
College Aluva
Dr. T. Thomas Philip, Head of the Department of Zoology and co-ordinator
of Biotechnology Division is appointed as the new Principal of the
college from 1. 4. 2010. The installation service is arranged to be held
in the College Chapel at 11.15 am on Saturday, March 20, 2010.
Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar Theophilus Saffragan Metropolitan will
deliver the message.
Your presence and prayers are extremely solicited.
For Union Christian College Standing Council,
Dr. Varghese John,
Principal
&
Dr. A. Benny Cherian
Secretary
Union Christian College Association
Prof. K. P. Mathew
Hospitalized
Prof. K. P. Mathew, former HOD of Maths
and main warden of west hostel is hospitalized at Trichur due to block
in the intestine and lack of proper peristaltic movement; had an
operation, but recovery is very very slow.
KPM is 80 years old now.
Update March 11, 2010
K. P. Mathew sir is recovering slowly.
When I met him three weeks back, there was no much hope.
But no doubt, God has answered our prayers.
If you would like to send a letter to him pl note the postal address of
his sister and his id.
Prof. K. P. Mathew
C/o Mrs. Lily Jacob
Pulikkottil House
St. Francis lane
Chempukkavu
Thrissur - 20.
KPM's email id is
kpmathewkadavil@sancharnet.in
Dr. David Saj spends a
semester in USA
Dr. David Saj Mathew, faculty in Botany,
is now spending a semester in Randolf College, near Virginia, USA as a
part of his United Board Fellows Programme. Dr. Saj is also our old
student of 1985 - '87 M.Sc. Botany Batch. Those who would like to
contact him may note his email id
david_saj@lycos.com
An Old UCCian
Left Us
- Abraham Joseph, UCC Alumnus and Father of Pravin
Philip
Somehow
words fail me when I heard the passing away of our Pravin
Philip's dad in Kerala on March 1, 2010. When we started UCC
Alumni Forum several years ago, one of the first to sign up
was Pravin and his dad. (His dad was visiting Pravin at that
time, if I am not mistaken.) Pravin told me that his dad
likes to read the emails that came through the forum.
Like every dad, Sri Abraham Joseph had a great influence on
shaping Pravin as we can learn by reading the reminiscence
from Pravin (see below). I am glad that he didn't try to
shape Pravin the way he thought his son should be, but gave
the freedom to Pravin to become what he wanted to become -
the best in what he does.
When we think of Indian parents, it is often said that we
spend a lifetime molding our children in the image of them
(parents). We want them to do things we could not do
ourselves. Of course, there are exceptions. Mr. Abraham
Joseph definitely was one. He encouraged independent
thinking by his children. This helped his children explore
unknown territories and sour to new heights. He had a
productive life and is now called back home by his maker.
On behalf of the entire UCC Alumni Forum family, the
moderators of the forum and myself personally, I extend our
condolences to Pravin and his family. We share your grief.
We pray for the departed soul. May his soul rest in peace.
Dr. Jacob Mathew
webmaster
Message from Pravin:
"My father Abraham Joseph,
aged 93 passed away last night (March 1, 2010) I was
privileged to share the last few weeks with him, here in
Kerala..
Appachen was a contemporary of my uncle Dr KC Chacko at UCC
and was taught by the likes of Prof AM Varkey over 70 years
ago.
When the time came for me to choose a college, I chose UC
because he spoke highly of his time there. In retrospect it
was for me too an excellent decision. Later he went on to
MCC and then taught Philosophy at the Govt. College
Kumbakonam.
It was then that he struck out into uncharted waters. He
left his government job and went to Bombay to study
commercial art. His family and friends thought he was nuts!
But that step of courage led him to be a pioneer in
advertising and marketing and exposed us his children to
experiences and ideas that were life transforming the the
entire family.
Today I salute him and want to take this opportunity to
re-introduce him to my UCC family.
Appachen was not a religious person but a highly moral one.
He worshiped through the many acts of kindness he was known
for. Especially when it came to mentoring a slew of
youngsters whom he took to Bombay and set them on the road
to success.
May his soul move onward in peace...
Sincerely,
Pravin Joseph Philip
UCC class of 1980 (Psych)"
50 Lakhs for Botany from
Science and Technology, India
Happy to announce that
the Dept of Botany will be receiving Rs.49.6 lakhs from the Department
of Sciences and Technology India, for developing a Plant Molecular
Biology lab and a Computer lab, under the FIST programme (Funds for
Improving the Science and Technology Infrastructure in higher
educational Institutions). This year, UCC is one among the 12
colleges in India selected under this scheme.
The Dept of chemistry
had received this grant last year.
Congratulations !
Thara Simon
E- Journal package - Gift
from Dr. James Jacob
At
this time of NAAC reaccreditation, UCC has the proud privilege of
enjoying a prestigious enhancement of academic infrastructure and
Library Development through the gift of $7000 from Dr. James Jacob,
president of UCCAANA. With this funding, our library has purchased the
package of online journals "EBSCO Academic Search Elite". Besides this,
a server, few desk top computers and necessary accessories are also
being added.
One
of the pressing needs of the newly introduced credit semester system at
both UG and PG level, is the demand for on line search facilities and
reference materials. Accessibility to standard e- journals will
certainly enrich the research active UCC community, creating significant
impact in the quality of teaching - learning and research.
Thank
you Dr. Jim, you made the right choice in supporting UCC this way !
We
have great joy in expressing our gratitude to the benevolent support of
UCC Alumni Association of North America.
We humbly acknowledge the
inspiring guidance from Dr. K. C. Chacko, Dr. Simon Thomas and all the
office bearers of UCCAANA.
Regards
Thara Simon
Dr. Sunny Kuriakose Leaves
UCC to Become Principal of B. P. C. College Piravom
Dr. Sunny Kuriakose, Faculty in
Mathematics and Executive secretary of UCC alumni association accepted
the assignment as the principal of B. P. C. College Piravom. He will be
assuming the office by the end of January 2010. We consider Sunny sir as
an inseparable part of UCC Alumni Association.
We congratulate Dr. Sunny Kuriakose and wish him all success.
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2009 |
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Condolences:
Dr. Baker Fenn So
sorry to inform you all the sad demise of Dr. Baker Fenn
(famous psychiatrist), father of our Alumnus Dr. Mathai
Baker Fenn (BA Psychology 1981-84 Batch).
He died on Sunday the 27th of
December 2009 at 3.00 AM at Carithas Hospital, Kottayam. He
was suffering from Renal failure.
The funeral service will be
held at 2.30pm on Monday, 28th of December 2009 at the CSI
Ascension Church, Near Collectorate, Kottayam and at the
cemetery near CMS College, Kottayam at 4.00pm.
Dr. Mathai Baker Fenn's
contact nos. 0481 -2562822 (Home) or cell 09980051414 or
09746488059.
by Cyriac George
We express our profound
sadness at the death of Dr. Fenn and express our condolences
to Dr. Mathai Fenn for this loss. We pray that the Almighty
God strengthen him and his family to overcome this loss.
UCC Alumni Association of
Kuwait Inaugurated
See details
UCC Alumni and Friends
Get Together in Kuwait
Friday, October 23, 2009 at 5:00 PM
Date: Friday, October 23,
2009
Time: 5:00-7:00 PM
Location: Indian Public School Auditorium, Salmiya, Kuwait
A get together of UC College Alumni of
Kuwait with family is planned on Friday, 23rd of October 2009 at Indian
Public School Auditorium, Salmiya, Kuwait from 5.00 to 7.00pm.
Dr. C. Joyce Mathew, Head of the Department of Botany and former
Principal of Union Christian College, will be the chief guest.
This will be a great opportunity for the
Kuwait UCCians to meet together and form/renew their friendships.
Please plan to attend. Please inform any of
your friends of this event.
Please contact Cyriac George 99597294 for
further information or if you need any assistance. Dr. C. Joyce Mathew
may be contacted at 66297124.
Thank you Cyriac for organizing this event. Prof. A. M.
Chacko Appointed Manager of UCC
Great to inform you all that Dr.
A. M. Chacko will be our new manager.
More details
UCC Women's Hockey Team wins Gold Medal in the All
India South West Inter University Hockey Tournament
We salute the Women's Hockey Team. They have really given us a huge Christmas and New
Year's present.
Our UCC womens'
hockey team have won the gold medal in the South West inter university
Hockey Tournament, representing Mahatma Gandhi University. Of the
fourteen members of the team, eleven were UCC girls. ( South West means
they won half of India. This crown is coming to us after 14 years!!!)
Read the
full story.
UCC Alumni Offer Scholarship for Talented but Financially Disadvantaged Students in Memory of their
Daughter
by M.S. Girija
Moderator, UCC Alumni Forum
Mrs T A Fatima and Mr Kadir Pillai, old students of UCC,
currently in USA, are instituting scholarships for meritorious and needy
students in memory of their only daughter Dr Nidhi Kadir Watson who
passed away in 2007, at the age of 31, due to cancer. They have set up a
website (www.NKWProgram.org
) to make the application for scholarship
easy for candidates. Please pass on this information to prospective
beneficiaries.
Fatima did her Pre-degree 1st group in UCC during
1966-68 (my class-mate) and then Chemical Engineering in Govt.
Engineering College, Trichur. Kadir Pillai was in UCC for Pre-University
(1962-63?) and in Mar Athnatious Engineering College, Kothamangalam.
Their only child Nidhi was an outstanding student who achieved a lot
during the short span of her life. After graduating in Chemical
engineering with Honors she pursued studies in medical sciences and
graduated from University of Texas. Then she continued in the medical
field – Doctor of Medicine in Neurology, research in movement disorders,
…….. She was the Associate Medical Director for Clinical Research at
Abbott Laboratory, Chicago, at the time of her death.
10th Jan. '09:
Botany reunion, Prof. TCJ Garden dedication, Hon. 70-80 Batches
by Thara Simon
Dear all,
We have great pleasure in inviting you to the Botany Alumni Reunion and
Dedication Ceremony of Prof. T. C. Joseph Botanic Garden on Saturday
10th January 2009. The Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar Theophilus Suffragan
Metropolitan; our distinguished old student and member of Union
Christian College Standing Council will be the chief guest of the day.
Your esteemed presence is solicited to delight the occasion.
The programmes will start with worship at
the College Chapel at 9. 30 am, followed by the formal opening of TCJ
Botanic Garden. The public meeting will start at 10. 30 am in the Botany
B. Sc. lab.
Alumni of 1970 – `80 batches will be
honored this year. All the alumni of this period may send their names to
the email id:
uccbot@gmail.com.
Please be with us for the reunion
considering this as a formal invitation.
Warm regards
Thara
UCC MCA
Hosts Fulbright Scholars
The Department of Mathematics and Computer pplications of
UCC recently hosted the Fulbright scholars from the US.
Congratulations to Prof. Ushadevi Kunjamma and MCA team for
their continuing efforts that made this possible.
New
Leaders for UCCAANA
Congratulations to Dr. James
Jacob and Dr. Simon Thomas, the newly elected President and
Vice President of UCC Alumni Association of North America.
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2008 |
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Subhadra
Teacher is the New Web Coordinator
Congratulations to Subhadra
teacher, a member of the UCC Physics faculty for her
appointment as the new web coordinator of the academic web
site.
Congratulations to M. A / M. Sc Rank Holders and Ph. D.
Awardees from UCC 2008
Hearty Congratulations to Bincy, Anju, Prashobh, Anila teacher and Girija teacher !
Read the story
Condolences to
Prof. O.M. Mathen
We are very sorry to
inform you about the demise of Mrs.Annamma Mathen, wife of
Prof. O.M. Mathen, former principal and head of the
Department of Botany.
The funeral will take place on Thursday, December 6, 2008 at
2 pm. in Mary's
Cathedral Manarkadu, Kottayam. We extend our heartfelt
condolences to the bereaved family.
Founder's Day:
Thursday, November 7, 2008
The Founder's day Address was
given by Mr. Jacob Punnoose DGP.
(Director, Vigilance and Anti Corruption)
Old Students' Reunion:
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Program
9.30 am. : Thanksgiving service
in the College Chapel
Message : Prof. P. G. Koshy
10. 00 am. : Public Meeting
Keynote address : Most Rev. Dr.
Philipose Mar Chrisostem Valiya Metropolitan of Marthoma
Church
12. 30 pm. : Lunch
2.00 pm. : Business Meeting
Condolences to Dr.
Varghese John
Sorry to inform you about the sad
demise of Mrs. Rachel John (78), mother of Dr. Varghese John, Principal
of UCC. For the past two weeks, she
had been in an unconscious stage after suffering from a stroke.
Mrs. Rachel John is also an old student of
UCC. So, we have more than one connection to her. Funeral was held at St
George Orthodox Church Chepad at 11.30 am on Saturday, October 25, 2008.
May her soul rest in peace. We extend our
condolences to Dr. Varghese John and his family and pray that God
strengthen them to overcome this big loss.
P O Mathew, UCC Alumnus, Retires from Cochin Shipyard
Mr. P O Mathew, who was a Pre-Degree student of UCC during 1964-66,
recently retired from the services of Cochin Shipyard Ltd. He had been
holding the post of Manager Finance in Shipyard. Now many people retires
from their jobs and do not see the news published here. So, what makes
this retirement so special?
Read the
full story.
Sosamma Philip Memorial Endowment Scholarship
for the needy students of Botany
During the Botany reunion on
January 12, 2008, the college announced the endowment of a Scholarship
named Sosamma Philip Memorial Endowment Scholarship. This scholarship
was made possible by the generous contribution from
Mr. Jacob Philipose who is an alumnus of the first B Sc. Botany Batch at UC
College. Jacob was the key note speaker at the reunion. This
scholarship, named after Jacob's mother, will enable the college to
provide scholarships for the needy students of the Department of Botany. Assistance will also be given to those who have
financial difficulty for attending the field trip during their final year.
Department Botany Publishes Alumni Newsletter Botany Department has
published a newsletter so as to keep the alumni informed about what is
happening - and looking over the newsletter, lot of things are
happening. The department boasts of 100% pass out rate in the last
university examn along with the first ranker. It appears that they will
also have a state-of-the-art DNA Lab soon. WOW!! We want to congratulate
Dr. Thara Simon and her colleagues at the Department who have
collaborated to produce this excellent newsletter. Hopefully, the rest
of the departments at the college will follow the Botany Department's
lead. Anjali Muraleedharan Secures
First Rank in MG University
Congratulations to Miss Anjali Muraleedharan,
of the Department of Physics for securing first rank in B.Sc. Computer
Science examination of M.G. University. |
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2007 |
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DNA Lab at UC College
A Fruit of the Collaboration between Hope College and UC
College
In 2007, UC College has
signed a MOU with Hope College in Holland, MI establishing the framework
for faculty and student exchanges and to set up future collaboration in
academic research. The MOU was officially signed by Dr. K. E. Leelamma.
The MOU was the culmination of months of hard work and persistent
communication by Dr. Thara Simon, the faculty in charge of International
Collaborations in UC College.
 Thara
had spent several months at Hope College on a scholarship from UBCHEA.
She had seen first hand about the high quality of research that is being
undertaken in institutions of higher education in the USA such as Hope
College. Although UC College has the talent to do the research, the
college does not have the equipment to do such work.
Enter Dr. K.C. Chacko, the
distinguished alumnus from UC College who is not bashful about funding
projects that he believes in. As a result of trilateral negotiations
between UC College, Hope College and Dr. K.C. Chacko, Hope College has
agreed to help UC College to set up a DNA Laboratory by purchasing and
gifting important equipment, as well as train the UCC faculty on how to
use the equipment. This is an important milestone for the college. It
also shows what people with vision and commitment can accomplish.
We salute all people who
played a pivotal role in establishing this center.
Two Alumni Inducted to UCC Alumni Forum
Moderatorship
Nov 2007: M.S. Girija, Retd.
Deputy Director of Collegiate Education and an alumnus of the college
(1966-73) and Sunil Sivanand, MD and Chief Technology Architect, Acette
Technologies, Dubai and an alumnus of the college (1970-73) were
appointed to the Board of Moderators of UCC Alumni Forum, an electronic
forum that connects UCC Alumni Globally with each other and to the
college. (Learn more about
Girija
and Sunil)
Girija and Sunil will join
the current team of moderators consisting or Dr. Thara Simon,
Vidyadutt,
and Dr. Jacob Mathew. Moderators provide leadership to the forum and
will be responsible for the strategic plan and vision.
UCC Alumni Forum had been
growing fast and has over 400 members. In October 2007, the forum
delivered a record 281 emails sent by alumni. To learn more about the
Forum and to join,
click here.
Reunion day 2007
by Dr. Thara Simon
One more alumni reunion is over. The
worship in the chapel started at
9. 30 and rev. PT. Mathew our old student gave away the message. The
public meeting started around 10. 30. Hon. Justice Sundaram Govind
welcomed the gathering. Advocate Iyoob Khan made the obituary
references. Principal Dr. Varghese John presided over the function. He
congratulated the UCC alumni and friends for their greater enthusiasm
in participating in the current UCC activities. Sir reminded us that
the quality of UCC life is based on our individual contributions, how
ever small it may be. It keeps on changing, such changes are
inevitable, as the `river that we stepped in yesterday or a moment
before, might not be the river that we step in later', as the basic
nature of the river is to flow. This is applicable to UCC too.
Hon. MP. Sri. Varkala Radhakrishnan
recollected his 61 year old
memories at UCC, his acquaintance with the founder fathers and the
great Gurus of UCC. He also admitted that, for the first time in life
he is confused about "what to speak" when he kneels before the portals
of this great institution with an `empty mind'. Sri. Varkala was
instrumental in leading many of the movements of that time including
the " Paliyathu sathyagraham " for the right against untouchability
and unapproachability. His close acquaintance with Sahodaran Ayyappan
also added to his learning experiences. But being a good student, he
was loved and respected by all his teachers.
Friends, let me say, as a teacher what
impressed me the most is the
final conclusion of Sri Radhakrishnan, about what he inherited from
his forefathers and what he inherited from UCC. It continues like this
"My great grand father was the "Guru" of Mahakavi Kumaranasan, and
was also the "Satheerthyan" ( class mate) of Sreenarayana Guru. All my
kids are now well placed, my grand children in India an abroad are
serving the society in various fields. What I could give them were
gained from UCC. I have been a life long learner, and even at this age
of 81, I am a learner and this institution gave me every thing to make
me worthy of what I am supposed to be."
Source: UCC Alumni Forum
Founders' day address 2007
Two perspectives on the same event.
By Dr. Rajan Varughese, Director,
Marthoma College of Management and Technology, Permbavoor;
former-principal, UCC
I have been to UCC along with His Grace
Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan. The Metropolitan was in a
very happy mood and recollected a number of happy moments when he
studied in UCC during 1950-54.
The Founder's Day address was
commendable. He referred about the changes in the value system in
different areas of higher education. He narrated a number of memorable
episodes and the training he received under two of the Founders - late
Prof. C. P. Mathew and late Prof. V. M. Ittyerah.
by Dr. Thara Simon
Founders' day address was delivered by
most Rev. Joseph Marthoma
Metropolitan, who was a student of UCC in early 1950s. Principal Dr.
Varghese John welcomed the gathering and mentioned the significance of
Founder's day. Humbling himself before the memory of the funders,
Manager Prof. Mathew Koshy recollected the evolution of Union
Christian College, where a team of committed people worked together to
materialize their dream, irrespective of their positions. He
remembered the founding fathers, who were always ready to work as a
`second man' without seeking fame or credit.
Thirumeni emphasized the kind of
fellowship that they experienced in
UCC during their student life, where the students and teachers
respected each other. He remembered the great teachers with diverse
ideologies and insights, whose vision molded the character of each
student. Religion or ideologies were not criteria for fellowship, but
their diversity added to the quality of life in UCC. He exhorted the
audience to take note of the significant changes of the present day
especially in science and technology and to have introspection how to
utilize these changes for the betterment of the world. He also
emphasized the market oriented approach of the society, how the
degradation has affected the various professions, which are aimed to
serve the society.
Let us not think more how to change
others, but it is better to
change ourselves, for being better individuals. This approach can
always inspire the good will within all human beings. Thirumeni
concluded his speech with the comment of Prof. U. R. Ananthamurthy
about Keralites. Our approach has changed to "what I can get" from
"what I can give". We are conscious about our privileges, but
privileges are to be always clubbed with responsibly.
The founders' day address thus became a
memorable event, it was well
attended too.
Source: UCC Alumni Forum
Enhancing the elearning environment of UCC
For the past 3-4 years Prof. V. K. Subhadra of the Dept of Physics
has been working in the field of multimedia content development.
Under the inspiring leadership of VKS, the final year Physics
students launched a computer based quiz program in TB Ninan
Hall on on July 12, 2007. Miss. Arya S and her friends prepared and
led the quiz using the software MALTED.
At present we are working in collaboration with the Centre for Adult
Continuing Education and Extension, Cochin University of Science and
Technology, guided by Prof. VPN Nampoori of the Department of
Photonics. We are also grateful to Prof. Ravikrishnan, Dept of
English, Kerala Varma College Thrissur for his constant support and
encouragement in our humble beginning.
This year, the Centre for Environmental Studies of UCC is focusing on
innovative computer based teaching- learning techniques to enhance
the e-learning environment of class rooms. It is understood that
from 11th plan period onwards, UGC is planning to consider e-content
modules as equivalent to paper publications.
Hope that alumni and friends of UCC who are interested in this field
will come forward to share their expertise.
Congratulations to Subhadra teacher and Arya. You made it!
Source: Dr.
Thara Simon
Source: UCC Alumni Forum
Webmaster's Note: I had the the privilege of meeting and talking to Prof.
Subhadra in March 2007 when I was visiting Kerala. I was very impressed. We are
fortunate that we have such hardworking, visionary professionals such as Prof.
Subhadra, and Prof. Thara at UCC. Kudos to all.
Dr. M. Anil Kumar attends the National
Conference of Indian Academy of Sciences
Dr. M. Anil Kumar, faculty in Botany got the rare opportunity of
participating in the National Conference of Indian Academy of Sciences
held at Bangalore in July 2007. Dr. Anil informed that apart from the
research papers, the interactive sessions on curriculum revision and
teaching learning in Botany were very informative.
Mr. Sreejith, Research Fellow of Indian Academy of
Sciences, To Collaborate with UCC
Mr. Sreejith, Faculty, SNM college Maliankara (MSc. Botany 1994 batch)
received a prestigious research fellowship of Indian Academy of
Sciences. His current area of specialization is Ethnobotany. Sreejith
will also be associating with the UCC research centre of Botany soon.
Finding the
Core and Essence of a Unique College
Dr. P. Thomas Mathew, faculty and research guide of the department of
Botany will be participating in the United Board Fellows Leadership
Seminar at Bangkok from 30th July to 4th August 2007. Assumption
University is the first international University of Thailand. Dr. Mathew
has also been selected for a seminar presentation about UCC; the title
is "Finding the core and essence of a unique college"
Ph. D. Awarded to Two UCC Faculty
Mr. Lopez Mathew (Faculty in Chemistry)
and Mrs. Sonia Chacko (Faculty in English) were awarded Ph. D. from
Mahatma Gandhi University.
Sonia is an old student of UCC. After
completing MA with first rank, Sonia was doing research as a UGC
research fellow, under the supervision of our principal Dr. Varghese
John. Dr. Sonia's thesis title is: "Paradigms of Conflict in Indian
Fiction in English, 1981-1990."
Dr. Lopez Mathew's thesis is titled, "A
Study on the Chemistry of INSITU Generated Imino ketene Intermediate" .
His study is widely appreciated and the results are now being published
in reputed journals.
Sonia is the daughter of Prof. P. M.
Chacko, our former HOD of English. While she was a research fellow in
UCC, Sonia served as the secretary of the UCC research form, and was
very active in conducting weekly research forum seminars in the TB Ninan
Hall.
Dr. M. Anil Kumar Joins the Faculty of the Department of Botany.
Dr. M. Anil Kumar had his MSc. in Genetics and
Plant breeding in 1996 and took Ph. D from the University of Kerala in
2002 in Tissue culture and molecular studies of Capsicum. (Any one
interested to know more about Capsicum can contact him !!!)
Dr. Anil had been serving as a faculty and head of the department of
Biotechnology in Govt. College, Kariavattom and later in the
department of Biotechnology, St. Peters college Kolenchery. Till May
2007, he was working as Senior Scientist and Director of Research, in
KR Narayanan memorial research centre for Ayurveda and Siddha,
Uzhavoor, Kottayam.
Dr. Anil's research interests include Cytology, Biochemistry,
Bioinformatics, Tissue culture, Molecular Biology, Phytochemistry, and
floriculture. He is also an approved research supervisor of M. G.
University in Biotechnology.
Source: Dr. Thara Simon
Dr. K. E. Leelamma completes 30 years Service
at UCC
In June 2007, Dr. Leelamma completed 30 years of service as a UCC faculty. On
behalf of the alumni and college, we thank Dr, Leelamma for her hard work,
dedication and commitment to the UCC community. Teacher, we are indeed proud of
you!
Webmaster's Note: I had the
distinct privilege to take Dr. Leelamma around when she visited USA in
May-June-2007. When Dr. Leelamma introduced herself to the US faculty as a
senior professor with 30 years of service, they invariably were very surprised
and asked her, "When did you start, at age 1? You look so young." Dr. Leelamma
is that rare person who shows lot of humility and simplicity and impresses
everyone who gets to know her. Myself and my wife, who is a UCC alumnus, are
indeed privileged to host Dr. Leelamma while she was in the US. Keep it up,
teacher!
Prof. K.E. Leelamma to visit US in
May-June 2007 to sign a MOU with Hope College and to Visit US based
alumni of UC College.
UC
College to Sign a Historic MOU with Hope College, Holland, MI
Prof. TM Mathew Passes Away |
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News Summary (2006)
Charlotte Erickson Returns to US
Prof. T. C. Joseph Botanic Garden
New Faculty Joins College
Rank Holders from UC College - 2006
Mr. Eldo Varghese Made
Permanent Faculty
UB Approves Two
Additional Projects
UC College Alumni Association
of North America Registered and Approved
UCC International House &
Alumni Development Office
Distinguished Alumnus of College
Donates $10,000
US
visit of Dr. Kuriachen
Department of
Physics Meeting on March 19, 2006
UC College Faculty
Members Receive Grant from ISRO
Class of 2006 Alumni
Have Been Inducted
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Prof. TM Mathew Passes Away
We are sorry to announce the sad demise of Prof. T. M. Mathew, former
history professor of UCC on Saturday, May 5, 2007. The funeral took
place on Sunday May 6, 2007 at 2 pm.
Prof. T. M. Mathew also served as the warden of the men's hostel.
May his soul rest in peace.
UCC To Establish Alliance with Hope College, Holland, MI
Union Christian College will soon
be signing a MOU with Hope College, Holland, MI. This wide reaching
alliance will enable faculty and student exchanges between Hope College
and UCC.
In a draft letter to Dr. Varghese John,
Principal of UC College, Dr. Alfredo M. Gonzales, Associate Provost and
Dean for International and Multicultural Education for Hope College
provided a frame work for future cooperative endeavor. This envisags
setting up regular exchange program for faculty and students. These
exchange program will foster the understanding of the culture and life
style that will be helpful in the era of globalization. Having such a
program will enable UCC faculty and students to stay in the campus, take
advantage of the research facilities at the college, and to do research
on their projects. Hope college also will send its faculty and students
to Aluva to experience India.
Dr. K.E. Leelamma of Psychology Dept has
been selected by the UCC GB to travel to USA in May to sign the MOU.
Originally, Dr. Varghese John and Dr. Sunny Kuriakose were to travel to
Holland, MI to sign this document. Unfortunately, they could not secure
the necessary visa to USA and the college GB decided to send Dr.
Leelamma as the college rep to sign this important MOU.
Hope College is one of the top liberal arts
colleges in US. Dr. Thara Simon, who had stayed at Hope College
previously played a crucial role in developing this MOU. The college has
a similar MOU with Austin College Texas.
We congratulate everyone at the college for
this monumental accomplishment.
Charlotte Erickson Returns to US
Charlotte Erickson, who had been
serving UC College as an Young Adult Volunteer, has completed her tenure
and returned to the US. A new volunteer from US named Andrew is expected
to join UCC to replace Charlotte. Thank you Charlotte for your services
to the college.
Prof. T.
C. Joseph Botanic Garden
by Dr. Thara Simon, Dept of Botany
It was a long cherished dream of the
botany faculty to establish a Botanic Garden in memory of our founder
father Prof. T. C. Joseph. The governing Body of UCC has gladly shown
the green flag by providing space for the same in front of the biology
block (towards the southern side).
We are currently working on the
project.
New Faculty Joins College
The
following new faculty joined the
college on 10th July 2006.
Welcome.
Botany
Dr. Manju M. George, M.Sc.,
Ph.D.
Economics
Sunil Abraham Thomas, M.A.,
M.B.A.
English
Cheri Jecob K., M.A., M.Phil.
Rekha Nair, M.A., M.Phil.
Sonia Chacko, M.A.
Malayalam
Dr. Sibu M. Eapen, M.A.,
Ph.D.,B.Ed.
Vidhu Narayan, M.A., M.Phil.,
B.Ed.
Mathematics
Prathish Abraham, M.Sc.
Eldo Varghese, M.Sc.
Physical Education
Dr. Bindu, M.PEd., Ph.D.
Psychology
Malini R., M.A.
Rank Holders from UC College - 2006
The following students of our
college have secured
first/second/third ranks in the
final year B.A./B.Sc. degree
examinations of Mahatma Gandhi
University, Kottayam held in
March 2006.
| Name |
Degree |
Dept. |
Rank |
% Marks |
| Renu Rajan |
B.Sc. |
Botany |
First Rank |
94.80% |
| Anju Mary Philip |
B.Sc. |
B.T. & S.P |
First Rank |
95.90% |
| Pleasa Serin Abraham |
B.A. |
Economics |
First Rank |
85.80% |
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| Sindhu N. Menon |
B.A. |
History |
Second Rank |
80.00% |
| Resmi P |
B.A. |
English |
Second Rank |
78.75% |
| Maria Sharon John |
B.Sc. |
B.T. & S.P. |
Second Rank |
90.50% |
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| Santhi B. |
B.A. |
Psychology |
Third Rank |
84.63% |
| Jinu Thampi |
B.Sc. |
B.T. & S.P. |
Third Rank |
90.00% |
Congratulations to all for their
outstanding performance. We are
proud of you!
Mr.
Eldo Varghese
Made Permanent Faculty
Mr. Eldo Varghese has got
selection in the interview and will be joining UCC as a permanent
faculty of Department of Mathmatics in August. Eldho had been very
active in the college and its academic website committee.
UB Approves Two
Additional
Projects
Apart from the IHADO
project, UB has sanctioned two more projects this year - one for the
library seminar and one for the biotechnology dept (DNA finger printing
as a tool for early detection of Alzheimer’s).
UC College
Alumni
Association of North America Registered and Approved
It had been on the drawing board
for nearly 10 years. It took lot of teleconferences, face to
face meetings, and email communications. But finally, the
dream of many UCC alumni in America was finally met by the
registering of the UC College Alumni Association of North
America, Inc., in Ohio early this month (April 2006). The
Governing Body of UC College approved the recommendations
for the office bearers of the alumni association in its
meeting on Saturday, April 22, 2006. So, it is the dawn of a
new day and era for the college. Or in the words of Dr.
Thara Simon of the Dept of Botany of UCC, " It is a great
moment for all of us and the declaration of the association
will be a mile stone in the future of UCC."
The following are the office
bearers of the association:
| Executive
Committee |
Dr. Mrs.
Kamakshi Krishnan, NJ - President
Attorney Lal Varghese, TX - Vice President
Mr. George Varghese, NJ - Secretary
Dr. Thomas P. Mathew, OH - Treasurer
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| Board of
Directors |
Dr.
K.C. Chacko, CO
Dr. Jacob Mathew, OH
Mr. Pravin J. Philip, NJ |
We will be posting more
information about the association and its office-bearers
soon. |
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UCC
International House & Alumni Development Office
Union Christian College embodies a vision, which has stood
the test of time. The founding impulses grew out of a
cosmopolitan and truly international outlook. In recent
years there has been a special effort to foster
international linkages, with the support of UBCHEA and other
agencies.
From the position of an accredited affiliated
college, the college is moving towards academic autonomy.
International linkages will be a critical component of the
growth and transformation of the college to the status of a
deemed to be University. Institutional synergy must be
directed towards collaborative research, cross-cultural
initiatives and international partnership. The proximity to
the international Airport is a contextual advantage, which
must be complemented with sophisticated support facilities
in the campus.
The college realizes the importance of reclaiming its
alumni so that they can be partners and agents of growth.
The international house would be a vibrant on-campus
community center, which would facilitate the promotion of
international awareness and intercultural understanding.
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Distinguished
Alumnus of College Donates $10,000 The College received the first donation of $10,000
(approx. Rs. 4.5 lakhs) from
Dr. K. C. Chacko, a renowned alumnus and internationally
known economist who lives in Denver, CO, USA. This donation
is specifically earmarked for the international house and
alumni development project.
Dr. KC was a
student at UCC from 1939-1941 when all the founding fathers
were present. Prof. K. C. Chacko taught him logic and Rev.
B. G. Crowley helped him with hockey. So he has good
memories of UCC. KC came to the US in 1947.
KC was born in a house on the bank of river, Pampa in
Arratupuzha near Chengannoor. After completing intermediate
in UCC, he studied at MCC (Madras), Haverford College,
University of Pennsylvania, and New York University. Dr. KC
spent 18 years with the International Department of Phillips
Petroleum Company in various countries, and acted as the
division manager in Hong Kong. Dr. Chacko’s experience
includes working with reputed banks in New York and
maintained close contact with govt. and trade organizations
in US and was also instrumental in setting up an investment
centre in New York; He is the author of five books on
economics including Monetary and Fiscal Policy. Dr. Chacko’s
contribution will help UCC to set up the Alumni Office and
the International House. With his inspiration, the college
will also be completing the alumni directory within a year. By Dr. Thara Simon
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US Visit of Dr. P. M.
Kuriachen
Dr.
P. M. Kuriachen, Reader and Research Guide of the Department
of Botany will be attending a four month Faculty Leadership
Development Programme (FLDSP) of UBCHEA in Gonzaga
University, Spokane, Washington State, USA during February-
May 2006. The fellowship is sponsored by Freeman Foundation.
Dr. Kuriachen completed the first part of United Board FLDS
programme in Macquarie University, Sydney Australia, under
the mentoring of Prof. Elizabeth Dene, Dean of Division of
Environment and Life Sciences.
Dr. Kuriachen has been teaching
in the department of Botany for the past twelve years. His
specialisation is Plant Anatomy and Mocrotechnique. There
are about 30 international and national publications to his
credit. Formerly he was a scientist in Indian Cardamom
Research Institute, Spices Board, Govt. of India and he is
still continuing his research activities in Vanila and other
spice crops.
Dr. Kuriachen will happy to
meet the alumni in Washington State. We wish him a happy and
fruitful experience in Gonzaga University. All the
interested alumni may contact him in the id
kuriachen_puthooru@yahoo.com
Dr. Kuriachen's
Letter
Dear UCC Alumni in USA,
Myself, Dr.P.M.Kuriachen,
Reader,Department of Botany, UCC, Alwaye is now in Gonzaga
University,Spokane,Washington State,USA as United Board
Fellow. Here I am Undergoing a Leadership training program
sponsored by UBCHEA.New York.I am very much interested in
meeting and contacting as many number of our esteemed alumni
as possible. So feel free to contact through email or
through my telephone, 509 325 3828.
I will be here till May 20,
2006.
My residential address:
The Ministry Institute,
405, E Sinto,
Spokane,WA 99202
Telephone : 509 325 3828
E mail:
kuriachen_puthooru@yahoo.com
With regards and best wishes
Kuriachen |
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Department of
Physics Meeting on March 19, 2006
The Department of Physics organised a meeting of its faculty and staff (former and
present) and old students at 2. p.m. on Sunday, 19. 03. 06
in the T. B. Ninan Hall to bid farewell to Prof. N. I.
Thomas and Prof. A. N. Muraleedhara Shenoi.
UC College Faculty
Members Receive Grant from
ISRO
Two faculty members from the
Department of Chemistry of our college,
Dr. Benny Cherian (principal investigator) and Prof. K. P.
Unnikrishnan receive a grant from ISRO for a project on
`Toughening
Studies of Epoxy Resins'. The team includes Dr. Aby Thomas,
Reader,
Polymer Science and Rubber Technology, CUSAT. The main
objective of
the study is to increase the efficiency and thermal
resistance of
fibre glass used in the manufacture of rocket shields. The
grant
amount is Rs. 600,000 and UCC is the first affiliated college
in
Mahatma Gandhi University to receive the `respond project'
from the
space research division.
They are also leading many more
activities of the college, Prof.
Unnikrishnan is the Director of the recently established
Centre for
Environmental Studies (CES) supported by UBCHEA New York and
Dr.
Benny is in charge of one of the most important service
learning
programmes, the National Service Scheme (NSS).
Class of 2006 Alumni
Have Been Inducted There is a
good news that your youngest brothers and sisters have
joined you as UCC alumni. The college bid farewell to our
final year
grads on Tuesday 14th February, 2006. Both teaching and non
teaching staff
gathered in the VMA hall to say goodbye to our beloved
students.
Our principal
Dr. Varghese John gave a hearty welcome to all.
Quoting Shakespeare, sir expressed how parting is a sweet
sorrow. He
wished the outgoings the very best, to fare well not only in
exams
but also in life and future. Sir added that it is an
occasion of joy
that one more batch of students have joined the alumni; the
great
force of UCC culture and tradition.
Prof. E. Mukundan, one of the
senior most faculty members from the
Department of Economics delivered a very short and sweet
farewell
message. Quoting great men from history, he inspired the
audience to
strengthen ourselves with goodness, hard work and positive
attitude
for the faithful and fearless performance of life and work.
Students from all the
departments shared their reflections, and
there was solo and music in between.
The alumni joint secretary
Dr. Sunny Kuriakose specially invited all
the outgoings for the reunion day on November second
Saturday. This
year all the final year students got enrolled in the alumni
register
by completing the alumni registration forms that were
circulated.
Mr. T. C. Jose spoke on behalf of the non teaching staff.
The
students expressed their gratitude to all the non teaching
staff for
their help and support.
The final program was a
farewell song by the faculty led by the
Dr. T. Thomas Philip, Head of the Department of Zoology. The
team
members were the principal Dr. Varghese John, Dr. (Mrs.)
Joythi
Mariyam John, Dr. Molina Susan Thomas, Smt. Latha Mathew,
Dr. Sunny
Kuriakose, Smt. Suma Mary Scaria, Dr. David Saj Mathew and
Dr. P.
Thomas Mathew.
The organizing secretary
Prof. Santha M. Mathew, Dean administration
and Head of the Department of Botany proposed the vote of
thanks.
For all of us it was an occasion of sharing memories and
sentiments
and also a moment of thanks giving.
Thara |
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