Published October 22, 2025
Melissa Cole, Pensacola State College Foundation
For over 22 years, Vai Kumar has been a part of the Pensacola State College family, dedicating her time and talent to helping students succeed as an associate professor of Computer Science. But her personal connection to the power of education runs far deeper—it’s a story rooted in gratitude, legacy, and the belief that generosity can change lives.
“I come from a tiny village in India with less than 100 families,” Vai shared. “But I was fortunate to have a very good school in that village—complete with a library, science labs, sports courts, and complimentary meals and dorms for underprivileged students. It was all possible because a successful businessman from my village chose to start the school. His generosity allowed generations of children, including my father and uncles, the opportunity to get their education.”
That early access to education shaped her life’s path. Vai went on to attend a prestigious all-women’s college, founded by another philanthropist, whose mission was to empower women through education in a country where barriers to women’s education historically existed. She recalled the engraving that hallmarked the entrance to her college saying: “To be born as a woman is a boon, you must be very lucky.”
“Without the far-sighted generosity of others to create educational opportunities, I wouldn’t be here today,” Vai explained.
Now, after more than two decades of serving Pensacola State College, she continues that legacy of giving. “My education enabled me to have a productive career and raise two highly educated children who have successful careers of their own,” she reflected. “My grandmother, who herself only possessed a fifth-grade education, always said, ‘You can lose your material wealth in life, but no one can ever take away your education—and that’s the best wealth you can have.’”
Vai’s decision to give back to the College stems from the same gratitude and hope that drove her educational pursuit. “My contribution is only a drop in the ocean,” she humbly noted. “But in the spirit of those who created opportunities for me, I want to give back to the students at PSC and make a difference in their lives—in the same way that generosity has made a difference in mine.”
Through her commitment to investing in the education of others, she helps ensure that the College continues to open doors—one student, one story, and one act of kindness at a time.
Discover a cause that inspires you and give back today by visiting: https://foundation.pensacolastate.edu/online-giving/.