In a prestigious recognition of their exceptional contributions to STEM education, five Indian American educators were honored with the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).
This award celebrates K-12 teachers who have significantly contributed to STEM education and inspires future generations of scientists and innovators.
Additionally, Dr. Binod Tiwari, a California State University, Fullerton professor, received the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM) for his dedicated mentorship in fostering a diverse and skilled STEM workforce.
These accolades, presented by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) in partnership with the National Science Foundation (NSF), are among the highest honors for STEM educators and mentors in the United States.
This year, 25 individuals and five organizations were recognized for their exceptional efforts.
Recognition and Rewards
Awardees of PAEMST and PAESMEM receive:
- A certificate signed by the President of the United States.
- A $10,000 cash prize provided by the NSF.
- An invitation to Washington, D.C., to participate in recognition events and professional development opportunities.
- Membership in an elite network of STEM educators and mentors nationwide.
Profiles of the Indian American Awardees
1. Vivekanand Balija (New Jersey)
With a 17-year teaching career, Vivekanand Balija is a science educator at William Annin Middle School in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
He teaches physical science to sixth graders, earth science to eighth graders, and STEM science.
Balija is also the co-founder and coach of the school’s Forensics Speech and Debate program, fostering critical thinking and communication skills among students.
Educational Accomplishments:
- B.S. in Biological Sciences, M.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology, and Ph.D. in Biochemistry from St. John’s University.
- M.A. in Education from the State University of New York (SUNY), Empire State.
- Certified in Biological Sciences in New Jersey and Biology Education in New York.
2. Rama Devagupta (Washington)
A dedicated educator for 17 years, Rama Devagupta has taught various science courses at Southridge High School and is an adjunct faculty member at Columbia Basin College. Devagupta’s teaching is enriched by her global experiences and passion for environmental education.
Key Achievements:
- Recipient of multiple awards, including the 2024-2025 Hutch Fellowship for Excellence in STEM Teaching and the 2024 STEM Research Grant from the Society for Science.
- Developed lessons on climate change and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
- Ph.D. in Bioorganic Chemistry from Texas A&M University.
3. Anjana Iyer (New Jersey)
Anjana Iyer is known for her innovative teaching methods in inclusion chemistry at Hillsborough High School, where she has co-taught for over a decade.
Her dedication to inclusive education has earned her recognition as one of the best inclusion teachers in New Jersey.
Highlights:
- Recognized by the New Jersey Coalition for Inclusive Education (NJCIE) and awarded Governor Educator of the Year in 2022.
- Co-published two articles and presented sessions at national science education conventions.
- B.S. in Chemistry from Stella Maris College and an M.A.T. in Special Education and General Education from The College of New Jersey.
4. Ranjani Krishnan (Oregon)
Ranjani Krishnan, a Career and Technical Education computer science teacher at Lincoln High School, brings a creative touch to her STEM teaching. Her methods emphasize hands-on learning and community engagement.
Additional Achievements:
- Certified in Additive Manufacturing and Game Design from MIT.
- Accomplished musician, composer, and polyglot fluent in multiple languages.
- B.A. in Mathematics and Music, M.S. in Mathematics, and M.A.T. from Lewis & Clark College.
5. Rajini Sundararaj (Georgia)
With 28 years of experience, Rajini Sundararaj has taught science across various institutions, including international schools in India and Saudi Arabia.
Currently, she teaches at South Atlanta High School, where she focuses on promoting equity in STEM education.
Key Credentials:
- Differentiated instruction techniques tailored to diverse student needs.
- B.S. and M.S. in Physics from Bharathiar University, and Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction from Lincoln Memorial University.
- Certified in Physics and Science for grades 6-12.

Dr. Binod Tiwari’s Contributions to STEM Mentorship
Dr. Binod Tiwari, an esteemed professor at California State University, Fullerton, has mentored over 240 students, with a focus on underrepresented minorities in STEM.
His mentorship has resulted in over 150 student co-authored publications and numerous prestigious scholarships.
Programs Established:
- Summer International Research Institute.
- Undergraduate Research Opportunity Center.
- Summer Undergraduate Research Academy.
Educational Background:
- B.S. in Civil Engineering from Tribhuvan University, Nepal.
- qeM.S. in Geo and Biosphere Science and Ph.D. in Environmental Management Science from Niigata University, Japan.
Impact of Awardees on the South Asian Community
The awardees of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching have created a profound impact on their communities by inspiring countless students to pursue careers in STEM.
Their dedication to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and innovation has opened doors for underrepresented groups, including South Asians, to thrive in these fields.
By mentoring the next generation of leaders, they empower students to break barriers and achieve excellence.
Their contributions extend beyond classrooms, building a culture of inclusivity and diversity in STEM. These educators serve as role models, demonstrating the transformative power of education and mentorship in shaping brighter futures.
0 Comments