For decades, leadership roles in India’s higher education landscape were overwhelmingly held by men, reflecting a systemic imbalance that often overlooked the potential of women in shaping academic futures. However, this narrative is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Today, women are not only entering the realm of academic leadership but are actively redefining it—as chancellors, deans, and heads of institutions—bringing with them a leadership style rooted in empathy, innovation, and inclusivity. Their growing presence is not a mere token of progress; it is a testament to their transformative impact on how education is envisioned, delivered, and led in the country.
One such visionary leader is Mrs. T. Saroja Reddy, a steadfast advocate of holistic education and societal responsibility. Through her dynamic leadership of the St. Peters Group of Institutions and Shantha Educational Society, she continues to inspire generations of learners—not only by imparting knowledge but by fostering skills and instilling a sense of purpose. Her efforts are focused on cultivating a mindset geared toward social contribution and innovative problem-solving, making her a true exemplar of pragmatic and purposeful leadership in Indian education.
From the Scratch
Mrs. T. Saroja Reddy grew up in an environment where education was held in the highest regard. Encouraged by her father and supported by her mother, she pursued academic excellence, earning a postgraduate degree in Mathematics from Stella Maris College, Chennai, followed by an M.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering. Influenced deeply by her husband, teachers, and mentors, she developed a strong sense of responsibility and a deep desire to contribute meaningfully to society—values that continue to guide her professional journey.
She began her career as a high school teacher of Mathematics and Physics, an experience that gave her valuable insights into the challenges faced by educators. This early exposure to classroom realities shaped her empathetic approach toward both staff and students. Her transition into leadership began when she took over as Principal of St. Peter’s School, where she honed her administrative skills in resource management, policy implementation, and conflict resolution.
Journey towards St. Peter’s
After years of making a significant impact at the school level, Mrs. T. Saroja Reddy felt a strong calling to contribute to the field of higher education—where future engineers and innovators are shaped. This transition to St. Peter’s Engineering College allowed her to play a pivotal role in setting academic standards, fostering a research-oriented environment, and preparing students to face real-world challenges with confidence.
As the Academic Director
As the Academic Director of St. Peter’s Engineering College, Mrs. T. Saroja Reddy plays a pivotal role in driving the institution’s vision and mission forward. Her core responsibilities include enhancing the quality of the teaching-learning process, ensuring strict adherence to the standards set by national accreditation bodies such as NBA, NAAC, and AICTE, and actively contributing to academic policy and institutional decision-making. She oversees faculty recruitment, mentorship, and the organization of Faculty Development Programs (FDPs), while also promoting a strong culture of research, innovation, patent filing, and securing research funding.
She is deeply involved in mentoring students to improve academic performance and continuously works to align the curriculum with evolving technological trends by redesigning and updating syllabi. Stakeholder feedback is regularly integrated into the institution’s policies to ensure inclusivity and relevance.
Under her leadership, the college has taken several forward-thinking initiatives such as the introduction of emerging subjects like Artificial Intelligence across all streams and the implementation of project-based learning. The establishment of innovation labs, centers of excellence, and incubation cells is aimed at nurturing entrepreneurship. She has also facilitated industry-academia collaborations through multiple MOUs for joint programs, internships, and real-world exposure. To promote inclusivity, scholarships are offered to disadvantaged students. Furthermore, faculty members are encouraged to pursue research and publish their work.
Beyond academics, Mrs. Reddy emphasizes a vibrant and holistic campus culture by supporting various student-led clubs, including photography, dance, social media, and NSS, fostering both creativity and community engagement.
In the Days to Come
Mrs. T. Saroja Reddy envisions transforming St. Peter’s Engineering College into a premier center of excellence in engineering education—one that not only delivers high-quality technical instruction but also empowers students to learn, lead, and develop solutions for the real-world challenges of tomorrow. Her forward-looking vision also includes enhancing the institution’s national visibility through strategic academic partnerships, improved rankings, and strong alumni engagement, positioning the college as a hub of academic and professional excellence.
On a Personal Note
To maintain a healthy balance between her personal and professional life, Mrs. Reddy follows a disciplined approach by setting defined work hours and adhering to them consistently. She believes in the power of delegation, entrusting key responsibilities to a reliable team, and ensuring a strong support system in both her professional and personal spheres. By prioritizing tasks effectively, she ensures that her professional commitments are met without compromising on the importance of quality family time, which she holds in the highest regard.
