Unit introduction

Welcome to the module, U.S.-India Education Ties – Past, Present, Future. We are excited to have you join us as we explore the rich and evolving history of collaboration between the United States and India in the realm of higher education. These ties are not just a testament to the longstanding partnership between these two nations but also a cornerstone of their broader strategic alliance.

In this unit, we will delve into the historical milestones that have shaped U.S.-India higher education ties, examine current trends and initiatives, and discuss potential areas for future growth, covering the period following India’s independence in 1947 to the present. Our goal is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how these educational collaborations have led to academic, cultural, and economic benefits.

Through this module, we aim to highlight the importance of strengthening these ties and the myriad opportunities they present for students, educators, and institutions on both sides. We look forward to engaging with you on this journey of discovery and learning. Strengthening these ties can lead to mutual benefits, including the exchange of knowledge, cultural understanding, and innovation. This unit covers a comprehensive overview of the key aspects and potential areas for growth in U.S.-India higher education ties.

Facilitator bios

Meena Saxena is a distinguished leader in management education with over three decades of experience. As Director of International Linkages at Narsee Monji Institute (NMIMS), Meena drives strategic initiatives to position NMIMS as a global academic leader through enhanced teaching methodologies, innovative research, and strategic partnerships across its 17+ schools and seven campuses. Under her leadership, NMIMS has forged partnerships with 50+ universities across the U.S., Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Asia, significantly expanding its global presence. Meena's visionary approach has empowered NMIMS to offer diverse learning and research opportunities to students and faculty on a global scale.

Prior to NMIMS, Meena held pivotal roles at the Indian School of Business (ISB), including Director of Alumni Engagement and Senior Associate Director at the Centre for Teaching, Learning, and Case Development (CTLC). At ISB, she championed the development and publication of over 150 Indian case studies, enhancing the institution's academic stature globally. Meena began her career as Vice Principal at Jai Hind College, Mumbai, and Assistant Dean at The Bombay School of Business, where she played a key role in shaping curriculum and educational strategies. She holds bachelor's and master's degrees in commerce from Sydenham College, Mumbai University, and a Master of Science in Management from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, U.S. Meena Saxena's career is marked by a steadfast commitment to educational excellence, leadership in global academic alliances, and a dedication to advancing management education through innovative teaching and impactful research initiatives. Her accomplishments include securing significant international funding and spearheading transformative projects in higher education.

Mohini Mukherjee serves as the Executive Director of International Student Services at Rutgers Global – ISSS and lead of India relations for Rutgers University. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Lady Shri Ram College for Women in New Delhi, two master’s degrees (in Human Resource Management and Women’s Studies), and a PhD in Higher Education from Rutgers University.

With over 18 years of experience in international education, Mohini began her journey at Rutgers as an international graduate student. She now leads a team focused on maintaining university compliance with U.S. federal regulations for F-1 and J-1 students, while providing comprehensive support for the international student community across the Rutgers-New Brunswick and Rutgers Health campuses. Additionally, she drives the university’s engagement initiatives with India. As a Fulbright scholar, Dr. Mukherjee is passionate about fostering an inclusive, supportive environment for international students and contributing to expanding Rutgers’ global presence.

Welcome message from facilitators