Jai and Susan Nagarkatti Endowment

Jai Nagarkatti’s commitment to education was honored by the Texas State Board of Education with the Hero of Children Award for his dedication to education, and the Sam Walton Business Leader Award. He served on the Texas A&M University-Commerce Foundation Board, and played an instrumental role in helping the University establish bachelor’s degree programs in both industrial engineering and construction engineering.

Dr. Jai Nagarkatti (class of 1972 & 1976) was a dear friend to A&M-Commerce. A beloved father, husband and leader, he served the employees of Sigma Aldrich Corporations, a $2 billion global life science and high technology company, for the entirety of his career, climbing the ranks from developmental chemist to president, chief executive officer and chairman of the board.

On campus at A&M-Commerce, Nagarkatti was known for his commitment to giving back in relevant and inspiring ways. He and Susan established the Jai and Susan Nagarkatti Graduate Fellowship in Chemistry at the university. The Nagarkattis generosity provided the resources necessary for students to pursue scientific research, and catch his enthusiasm for life in the lab.

(Taken from the Spring 2011 edition of the Pride Alumni Magazine)