There has been considerable discussion about how women have excelled in leadership roles during the Covid-19 crisis compared to men. Historically, even before the pandemic, women have consistently demonstrated superior leadership skills across various fields. Recognizing that women possess the ability to mend what is broken, society has long depended on them to restore balance.
In this context, Dr. Archna Prasad exemplifies exceptional educational leadership through her commitment to women’s empowerment at her institution. Her tireless dedication and impactful contributions have not gone unnoticed, and we are proud to honor her with the title of Inspiring Educator of the Year 2024.
From the Scratch
Dr. Archna Prasad was born and raised in Chennai, where she attended various educational institutions. Coming from a close-knit family with two sisters, she and her siblings received unwavering support from their parents in pursuing their dreams without being directed towards specific career paths. Although Dr. Prasad is a qualified company secretary, she was never pressured to practice in that field. Her true passion has always been teaching, inspired by the exceptional educators she encountered throughout her schooling. They instilled in her the belief that teaching transcends academics, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and holistic development in students. This profession allows her to continuously learn and remain youthful at heart, as each new group of students introduces fresh perspectives and opportunities for growth.
Championing Student Success
Dr. Archna Prasad has dedicated her entire 25-year teaching career to M.O.P. Vaishnav College for Women, and she describes her transition to the role of principal as a rewarding journey. Before assuming her current position, she spearheaded various student-focused initiatives that equipped her for the responsibilities of leadership.
Under Dr. Prasad’s leadership, M.O.P. Vaishnav College has preserved its accredited status and remarkable track record while actively enhancing various college processes. Notably, she introduced the Research Open Circle to foster collaborative research among faculty members. One of her distinctive initiatives is the MOP Sansat, a model parliament made up of a democratically elected student body that includes ministries, a Prime Minister, and ministers, with Dr. Prasad as the President of the House. This structure encourages leadership and civic engagement by allowing students to debate and vote on proposals. Additionally, she is proud of the Vaishnav Venture Box podcast on Spotify, which offers students valuable insights from successful entrepreneurs. Dr. Prasad has also prioritized strengthening the alumni network, recognizing the significant advantages of engaging with alumni, particularly those in the peak stages of their careers, for the benefit of the campus community.
Dr. Prasad believes that accessibility is crucial for an academic leader, allowing her to remain attuned to the needs of students, industry trends, and parental expectations. At M.O.P., the open-door policy she implements encourages regular interactions through meetings, emails, and messages.
Balancing Passion and Leadership
Dr. Archna Prasad has a deep passion for travel, believing it broadens horizons, exposes individuals to diverse perspectives, and enriches personal growth. She incorporates this enthusiasm into the academic experience at M.O.P. Vaishnav College by organizing various immersion programs and field visits for students. These initiatives help students connect their classroom learning with real-world applications; for instance, a student studying retail marketing may visit a mall as part of her coursework.
Dr. Prasad emphasizes the importance of meticulous planning and a solid support system. She credits her wonderful team, including an exceptional executive assistant and office staff, for their contributions to her leadership. Additionally, she acknowledges the unwavering support of her family, which allows her to balance her roles as a mother, wife, and academic leader. To maintain a healthy work-life balance, she sets aside personal time for annual family holidays and Friday night outings with her spouse.
