Padma Shri Recipient SP Kothari To Chair Rishihood University's Board Of Advisors

Rishihood University recently announced the appointment of academician and author Professor S.P. Kothari as Chairman of its Board of Advisors. His expertise in education, finance, and policy is expected to contribute to the university’s focus on developing future leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers for India’s growth. Prof. Kothari has an extensive background in academia and governance, with decades of experience in education, economic policy, and corporate governance.

Prof. Kothari is the Gordon Y. Billard Professor of Accounting and Finance at the MIT Sloan School of Management and a former Chief Economist at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. He received the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in recognition of his contributions to education and public policy. His association with Rishihood University is expected to support its efforts in advancing academic excellence and institutional development.

An Architect of Excellence

Over the years, Prof. Kothari has been recognized with some of the highest achievable national accolades, including India’s prestigious Padma Shri award in 2020 for his exceptional contributions to literature and education. His academic and professional journey includes leadership roles such as Deputy Dean of MIT Sloan, global head of equity research at Barclays Global Investors, and director at the Bombay Stock Exchange. Corporate governance, securities regulation, auditing, and economic policy in the last few decades have been somewhat shaped by and through his work. He’s also received several honorary doctorates from institutions such as London Business School and the University of Cyprus, along with the American Accounting Association’s Distinguished Contributions to the Accounting Literature award.

Speaking about his new role, Prof. Kothari said, “India has a historic opportunity to become a developed nation and contribute to global development. Educational institutions will play a fundamental role in this process. I am glad to join the advisory board of Rishihood at this juncture and hope to contribute in shaping a top-quality university. I am particularly excited about the culture of problem-solving, and the impact we want to promote through uniquely crafted curricula and pedagogy across our BBA, Design, Technology, and Psychology programs.”

A Vision of Transformational Education

Rishihood University, located in Sonipat, Haryana, is an institution focused on creating a meaningful impact through education. Established through collective philanthropy, the university offers a 25-acre residential campus near Delhi. It brings together leaders and scholars dedicated to fostering the next generation of changemakers. With founders and advisors from India, the U.S., Australia, Singapore, and the U.K., the university emphasizes practical, hands-on learning experiences alongside a values-based education.

Former Union Minister and Chancellor Suresh Prabhu expressed his admiration for Prof. Kothari, stating, “We are honored to have someone of his eminence and scholarly excellence to advise our institution-building efforts.”

Speaking at the recently held Decade of Impact at Pragati Maidan, CEO Sahil Aggarwal elaborated, “Rishihood believes in a three-step framework of impact - vyakti (individual), vichaar (ideas), and vyavastha (institutions).” He added, “Through his commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and public policy, Prof. Kothari is a real-life example and role model for the kind of impact we wish to create.”

A Legacy of Leadership and Impact

Prof. Kothari’s multifaceted career exemplifies an almost impossible to replicate blend of academic rigor and practical application. As Chief Economist and Director of the Division of Economic and Risk Analysis at the SEC, he led a team of 160 economists and data scientists addressing critical issues in U.S. securities regulation. His scholarly work, including co-authoring the widely acclaimed book The Economics of Accounting, continues to influence global academia and policy circles.

Under his guidance, Rishihood University seeks to further its academic and cultural ethos, integrating Indian values with global benchmarks of excellence. His involvement is expected to expand the university’s largely practical and actionable curriculum, faculty development, and international collaborations, reinforcing its vision to inspire leadership and innovation.

About Rishihood University

Rishihood University integrates India’s traditional knowledge systems with contemporary teaching methods and experiential learning. Its interdisciplinary model aims to foster well-rounded graduates equipped to address global challenges and contribute to sustainable development in India. The university features faculty from institutions such as Stanford University, the University of Washington, the University of Maryland, and IITs. It offers research infrastructure, industry mentorship, global study programs, paid internships, and a $5 million Makers Fund to support student entrepreneurship.

With the addition of Prof. Kothari to its Board of Advisors, the university continues its efforts toward advancing education and innovation for a more equitable society.