Jesuit Fr. Felix Raj, SJ, Vice-Chancellor of St. Xavier's University, Kolkata was honoured with Xavier Ratna Award by the Xavier Institute of Engineering, Mumbai on Saturday, January 11, 2020 at its 11th Convocation for his distinguished contribution to higher education and making higher education affordable to the rural poor. Fr. Raj was the Chief-Guest for the Convocation and delivered the Convocation Address.

Fr. John Rose, SJ, the Director of the Institute gave away the award on behalf of the institute and the Jesuit Province of Mumbai.

180 students graduated this year from the Jesuit institute. Fr. Felix Raj advised the graduating students to live up to the values of a Xavierite carrying with them the Ignatian spirit of majis wherever they go.
He warned the students that 'Life out in the world is not cozy like your class rooms. Whether you go seeking jobs or climb the ladder of higher studies, be bold and face it all with courage and determination.'

'Think global and act local. Let your thoughts be positive and big and your actions real and concrete. Success will come after you if you vibrate positivity in all you do', he added.

As this Xavier institute is proud of you and has formed you as men and women for others, you also must be proud of your alma mater and come back to express your belongingness and loyalty, whenever possible' he said.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mumbai, Veeresh Prabhu, Dr. Frank Trocki former Chancellor of Montana State University, Northern, USA and Dr. Y.D. Venkatesh, Principal of the College attended the Convocation ceremony.

Xavier Ratna is presented to illustrious Jesuit alumni by the Jesuits of Mumbai in Maharashtra. Earlier recipients of Xavier Ratna include: Former CM and Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee President Ashok Chavan, Chairman of Godrej Group, Adi Godrej, Non-Executive Chairman of HDFC, Deepak Parekh and Legendary Cricketer, Sunil Gavaskar.