1. From Classroom to Council: An Inspiring Political Journey

Alumna Spotlight: Smt. Rukmini Das – Class of 2001 (Political Science)

From walking the corridors of Women’s College, Jharsuguda as a curious undergraduate to taking her seat in the Odisha Legislative Assembly, Rukmini Das’s journey is nothing short of inspirational.

Graduating in Political Science in 2001, Rukmini credits the college’s vibrant debate culture and strong mentorship from her professors for igniting her passion for public service. “It was here that I learned the value of speaking up and staying grounded in my community’s needs,” she reflects.

Today, she champions education and women’s empowerment initiatives across western Odisha. She often visits the college to conduct workshops on leadership and civic engagement for current students.

Her message to young women: “You don’t have to wait to lead—start wherever you are. This college gave me that courage.”


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2. Bridging Cultures Through Art

Alumna Spotlight: Ms. Ananya Mishra – Class of 2010 (English Honours)

Ananya Mishra, now an internationally recognized Odissi dancer and cultural ambassador, fondly remembers her formative years at Women’s College, Jharsuguda.

“Those three years shaped not only my academics but my identity as an artist,” she says. Between lectures, Ananya could often be found practicing in the college’s open grounds or choreographing performances for college functions.

After completing her studies, she pursued classical dance full-time, eventually representing India at festivals in France, Japan, and the U.S. She now runs a non-profit academy that trains underprivileged girls in classical dance in Odisha.

Words of encouragement: “Find your rhythm and stay true to it. Let your roots be your strength.”


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3. A Tech Trailblazer from Jharsuguda

Alumna Spotlight: Dr. Preeti Sahu – Class of 2006 (Mathematics)

Dr. Preeti Sahu, now a senior data scientist at a Fortune 500 company in Bangalore, started her journey in the modest computer lab of Women’s College, Jharsuguda.

Graduating with a degree in Mathematics, she pursued her M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Data Analytics. Preeti is known for developing models that optimize healthcare logistics and has been featured in national publications for her innovative work.

She continues to stay involved with the college through guest lectures and online mentorship for STEM students.

Advice for students: “Don’t let the size of the town limit your dreams. Jharsuguda gave me wings