Founder & Visionary

Late Dr. A. Shanmugasundaram

Philanthropist · Educationist · Founder of Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation (Deemed to be University)

The Visionary

1935

Born to Serve Philanthropy · Education · Healthcare

A Life Dedicated to Education & Empowerment

Dr. A. Shanmugasundaram a noble Philanthropist and Educationist, established the Thirumuruga Kirupananda Variyar Thavathiru Sundara Swamigal Medical Educational & Charitable Trust (TKVTSSMEC Trust) in the year 1981. It is a registered Trust, totality self-supporting, based at Salem, Tamilnadu, India.

The Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation (Deemed to be University) since its inception is sponsored by Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation trust (VMRF).

Thirumuruga Kirupananda Variyar Thavathiru Sundara Swamigal Medical Educational & Charitable Trust is the parent trust of VMRF trust.

About University TKVTSSMEC Trust Vision & Mission

Founder's Profile

Dr. A.
Shanmugasundaram

Philanthropist & Educationist

Legacy:Founder, VMRF(DU) & TKVTSSMEC Trust

Key Recognition:48th Deemed University in India (2001)

"Education is the light that dispels the darkness of ignorance." — Dr. A. Shanmugasundaram

Core Belief

"The true purpose of education is to create compassionate professionals who serve society with integrity. Every institution we build must be a temple of learning and a hospital of healing."

— Late Dr. A. Shanmugasundaram

Founder's Journey

Milestones of a Visionary

A timeline of dedication, service, and institutional growth

1981

Establishment of TKVTSSMEC Trust

Founded the parent trust that would later sponsor Vinayaka Mission's educational institutions — a registered, self-supporting charitable trust based in Salem.

1982

First College — Pharmacy, Salem

Vinayaka Mission's College of Pharmacy opened its doors, marking the first step in a journey that would span four decades and multiple disciplines.

2001

Deemed University Status Conferred

Ministry of HRD, Government of India, recognizes Vinayaka Missions as the 48th Deemed to be University under Section 3 of UGC Act, 1956.

2001–2010s

Multi-Campus Expansion

Under his continued guidance, the university expanded to Salem, Chennai (AVIT), Puducherry, and Karaikal, establishing medical, engineering, dental, nursing, and allied health colleges.

Legacy

Enduring Impact

Today, VMRF(DU) stands as a testament to his vision — 21,000+ students, 4,000+ faculty/staff, 46 research centres, and a commitment to rural healthcare through 2000+ hospital beds.

Honours

Recognitions & Commemorations

🏅

Lifetime Achievement

Posthumously honoured by the Government of Tamil Nadu for contributions to education and healthcare.

📜

Founder's Chair

Endowed chair established at VMRF(DU) to perpetuate his memory and research in philanthropy.

🏛️

Dr. A. Shanmugasundaram Memorial Lecture

Annual lecture series on ethics in education and community service.

🌾

Rural Healthcare Legacy

Named after his vision — the university's rural outreach programs continue to serve 30+ villages.

Thirumuruga Kirupananda Variyar Thavathiru Sundara Swamigal Medical Educational & Charitable Trust

Established 1981 · Registered, Self-Supporting · Parent Trust of VMRF(DU)

Know the Trust

His Vision Lives Through Every Student

Dr. A. Shanmugasundaram's dream of an educated, empowered society continues to thrive in the achievements of over 21,000 students and the dedicated work of 4,000+ faculty and staff across four campuses.

Explore Legacy Current Leadership