Inder Bhambri donates $200,000 to support civil engineering students

Indian American professor’s donation will make a lasting impact on UDC School of Engineering in the American capital

By Arun Kumar

Former Indian American professor of engineering Inder Bhambri and his wife have donated $200,000 to the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) Foundation to support civil engineering students in the American capital.

Their donation of $100,000 each will establish the Dr. Inder J. Bhambri Civil Engineering Scholarship and will make a lasting impact on the UDC School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) at the public historically black land-grant university in Washington, DC.

READ: Three Indian American students win 2025 Marshall Scholarships (December 19th, 2024) 

Bhambri joined the faculty at UDC predecessor school Washington Technical Institute in 1970, contributing to the university’s rich past of preparing students for dynamic careers. Five decades later, he’s investing in the university’s future, according to a university release.

“Dr. Bhambri’s commitment to and belief in UDC cannot be overstated,” says UDC President Maurice D. Edington. “After investing in our students’ success for decades, he’s back at it again—this time generously providing support so that future Firebirds can pursue their professional dreams.”

After earning his doctorate in civil engineering from The Catholic University of America in 1971, Bhambri devoted 46 years to UDC, earning a reputation as an outstanding educator, researcher and community servant. When he retired, Bhambri and his wife chose to honor the former faculty member’s legacy with a scholarship to support future generations of civil engineering students.

During the check presentation ceremony, Prabha Bhambri humorously remarked that her husband needed to return to teaching to restore her peace, reflecting his family’s deep affection and respect.

SEAS Dean Devdas Shetty shared that Bhambri was integral to building what would become UDC’s civil engineering laboratories in the early 1970s. “Dr. Bhambri was a dedicated servant leader,” said Shetty, noting a commitment to service that was echoed by faculty and staff.

As they presented their gift, the Bhambri family beamed with pride. Though Bhambri may no longer be at the front of the classroom, his family’s commitment to the UDC students’ success continues, the release noted.