Washington Adventist University honors community leaders in Maryland

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Maryland: During its Annual Commencement Service, the Washington Adventist University (WAU) honored community leaders with Honorary Doctorates and President’s Excellence in Gateway to Service Award, on May 5, 2024, in Takoma Park.

Indian-American Jesse Singh, and Pakistani-American Sajid Tarar, founders of Center for Social Change (CSC), were honored with Honorary Doctorates for their dedication and devotion in serving the community since 1993.

Located in Elkridge, Maryland, CSC is a “private nonprofit organization that supports children and adults with intellectual disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder. The Center is a strong advocate for personal choices in community living for individuals who are developmentally, physically, psychologically, and emotionally challenged.”

Singh, who is also the Founder and Chairman of Sikhs of America, USA, told News India Times, “I am very humbled and thankful for this honor. This is possible due to God’s grace and love from the community. This emboldens me to work with the Washington Adventist University in serving the people.”

Tarar told News India Times, “WAU recognized me for my service to the community for more than 30 years. The University acknowledged my efforts for serving those with developmental and physical disabilities in my role as CEO of CSC. It was my deepest honor to accept this incredible recognition for my lifelong commitment to making life better for those who are less fortunate.”

During the event, WAU also honored President and CEO of the US-India SME Council, Indian-American Elisha Pulivarti with the “President’s Excellence in Gateway to Service Award” for his dedication and commitment to serving the community for over 25 years.

WAU’s President Weymouth Spence noted that Pulivarti has been recognized for “demonstrating exemplary community service—unparalleled dedication, unmatched performance, inspirational service that goes above and beyond to the public good.”

Pulivarti told News India Times, “I sincerely thank the Washington Adventist University for recognizing my ‘calling to serve’ and I am deeply honored for this recognition,” adding that his mission at SME Council is to advocate, assist, and support the economic aspirations of Indian American small and minority entrepreneurs.