July 2, 2025

Meet the 2025-2026 United Board Fellows

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Dr. Birunda Antoinette Mary Jeyaraj

Stella Maris College, India

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Birunda Antoinette Mary Jeyaraj is an Associate Professor and the Dean of Academic Affairs in the Department of Computer Science at Stella Maris College. She guides Heads of Department, Faculty, and Students on curriculum-related activities. As a former Head of the Department, she led initiatives to enhance student knowledge and trained faculty in online teaching tools. She has co-authored two books: Programming in C++ and Word Processing with Apache Open Office Writer. Birunda values the United Board Fellows Program for sharing best practices and learning policy establishment to keep pace with technological advancements.

Dr. Zhihong Chen

Nanjing University, China

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Dr. Zhihong Chen is a Professor at the Institute for International Students, Nanjing University, China, and the Director of the Public Teaching Department for International Students. Previously, she served as Deputy Dean of the Department of International Chinese Education for six years. She holds a Ph.D. in Business Administration from Nanjing University, focusing on International Chinese Education and Business Administration.

Dr. Ines Septi Arsiningtyas

Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta, Indonesia

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Dr. Ines Septi Arsiningtyas, Dean of the Biotechnology Faculty at Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta (UAJY), aims to improve her communication skills and decision-making through the United Board Fellows Program. Holding master's and doctoral degrees in medicinal plants from Hokkaido University, she is committed to academic excellence and research innovation. She has led many initiatives, including research projects, major conferences, and university accreditation efforts, earning numerous awards. Her publications reflect significant contributions to biotechnology. Through the program, Dr. Ines seeks to enhance her leadership skills, promote whole person education, and share insights on higher education trends and Christian values in Indonesia.

Dr. Yanti Ivana Suryanto

Duta Wacana Christian University, Indonesia

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Dr. Yanti Ivana Suryanto is a lecturer and researcher with over 15 years of experience in medical education at the Faculty of Medicine, Duta Wacana Christian University, currently serving as Vice Dean for Academic Affairs. She previously led the Medical Education Unit and contributed to curriculum development and faculty training. She holds a medical degree from Gadjah Mada University (UGM) and earned her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Physiology from UGM. Her research focuses on human physiology and stress response, emphasizing a bio-psycho-social-spiritual approach. She promotes mental health innovations in cardiovascular health, integrating interdisciplinary research with holistic, student-centered education. Dr Suryanto aims to advance transformative leadership and learning in higher education through whole person education values.

Fr. Joby Joseph

St. Anthony's College, India

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Fr Joby Joseph is a professional in the field of education and administration, providing skill-based education to youth at St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, India. Fr Joby has a doctoral specializing in computer science and over 20 years of pastoral experience. He serves as the secretary and continental representative for Don Bosco Higher Education of South Asia. Previously, he headed the Department of Computer Science and was the Rector of the College for six years. He is involved in teaching, curricula development, IT literacy, and research, with notable contributions in these areas. Since 2018, Fr Joby has been leading the Value Education Department of the College. He has also been the pastor at the Grotto Chapel Catholic English Community in Shillong town for over 20 years. Fr Joby's approach to education emphasizes value-based learning, social commitment, and spiritual orientation.

Dr. Jingdong Yu

Nanjing University, China

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Dr. Jingdong Yu obtained his Ph.D. in Political Science from Nanjing University and was a former visiting scholar at Sciences Po, Paris (2015-2016), is currently an associate professor at Nanjing University's School of Government. His research focuses on political ideas, French history, and modern diplomacy. Dr. Yu has authored over 20 journal papers including the CASS Journal of Political Science and Literature & Art Studies. His work has been featured in Chinese Social Science Digest, and he received first prize in the 4th National Youth Theoretical Innovation Award.

Dr. Mark Dionisio Francisco

Trinity University of Asia, Philippines

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Dr. Mark D. Francisco is the Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College of Medical Technology at Trinity University of Asia, Philippines. He oversees the Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology (BSMT) and Master of Science in Medical Technology (MSMT) programs. He previously served as a faculty adviser for the Philippine Society for Medical Technology Students (PHISMETS), Project HEALS coordinator, and assistant to the Dean. These roles greatly developed his leadership abilities, transforming him into a leader equipped with confidence, strategic thinking, and interpersonal skills. 

Dr. Natharin Phattayanon

Payap University, Thailand

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Dr. Natharin Phattayanon is the Chairwoman of the Medical Science Research Workgroup at UNISEARCH, Payap University, and an Oncology Pharmacy Practitioner and Instructor at its Faculty of Pharmacy. Specializing in oncology pharmacotherapy, she focuses on patient care and clinical research to advance pharmaceutical care in oncology. Her mentorship emphasizes compassionate care, ethical practice, and respect for human dignity, aiming to develop future pharmacists with a social responsibility and volunteer spirit. Dr. Phattayanon envisions higher education institutions as key players in nurturing skilled, compassionate graduates ready to contribute meaningfully to society. 

Dr. Naw Paw Lar Say

Myanmar Institute of Theology, Myanmar

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Dr. Naw Paw Lar Say is an Associate Professor and Head of the Social Studies Department, Liberal Arts Program at the Myanmar Institute of Theology (MIT). Her research focuses on Social Suffering and Coping Strategies, specifically addressing issues faced by widows and single mothers, gender issues, and youth issues in Myanmar. Her interests include Political Ecology, Political Economy, social work, and qualitative research. She obtained her B.Th. and M.Div. degrees from MIT, an M.Sc. degree from Central Philippines University, and a Ph.D. specializing in Social Science from Chiang Mai University. Dr. Naw Paw Lar Say has 25 years of teaching experience and 20 years of social work practice. 

Dr. Novita Ika Putri

Soegijapranata Catholic University, Indonesia

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Dr. Novita Ika Putri is a committed food scientist focused on sustainable food systems. Her research includes plant-based materials, food waste valorization, and green technology in food processing. She holds a master’s degree from Cornell University and a Doctoral Degree from KU Leuven. As an Assistant Professor at Soegijapranata Catholic University, she serves as Vice Dean for Resource Development in the Faculty of Agricultural Technology. Dr. Putri advocates for inclusive, empowering education, ensuring students gain both knowledge and life skills. Through the United Board Fellows Program, she aims to enhance collaborative education and research across Asian universities.  

Dr. Anson Kangirathingal Joy

CHRIST (Deemed to be University), India

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Dr. Anson K Joy is an accomplished academician and higher education administrator with over a decade of expertise in academic leadership, institutional governance, and strategic planning. Currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Commerce and Assistant Registrar at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, he has played a key role in policy formulation and institutional accountability as part of the Strategic Planning Committee and Internal Quality Assurance Cell. He is actively involved in curriculum design, teaching, and mentoring, with contributions in skill-focused modules like Microsoft Excel certification and Business Analytics. His research spans behavioral finance, tourism management, artificial intelligence, and finance. 

Dr. Win Maw Hlaing Oo

Parami University, Myanmar

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Dr. Win Maw Hlaing Oo obtained his Ph.D. in Materials Science from Washington State University and worked as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Utah and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. In 2014, he participated in the ASEAN-US Science and Technology Fellowship Program, which aims to support scientists in promoting science-based policy-making. Currently, Win Maw serves as Chair of the Division of Mathematics and Science at Parami University. 

Peter LEPCHA

Salesian College, India

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Peter Lepcha is a Post Graduate Coordinator at Salesian College (Autonomous), Siliguri. He holds Master's degrees in English and Education and is currently persuing his doctoral study in English Literature at the University of North Bengal. He has served as an editorial assistant for four peer-reviewed volumes of the Salesian Journal of Humanities & Social Sciences and has presented papers at various national and international conferences and webinars. He has worked as a Project Assistant for two Bamboo Project grants funded by the United Board. His areas of interest include apologetics, eco-theology, eco-poetics, ecocriticism, British and American poetry. He has taught in the undergraduate English department for over 16 years and in the postgraduate English department for over nine years. In addition, he regularly conducts facilitation programs for faculty, high school teachers, church youth groups, and parents on themes related to teaching pedagogy, navigating youthhood, and parental guidance in the twenty-first century. Mr. Lepcha received the Best Innovative Faculty Award 2021 from the All India Association of Christian Higher Education (AIACHE), New Delhi. 

Dr. Ador R. TORNEO

De La Salle University, Philippines

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Dr. Ador R. Torneo is Professor in the Department of Political Science and Development Studies and the Dean of the College of Liberal Arts at De La Salle University. He is an experienced development and governance scholar, having held leadership roles in various organizations such as the Philippine Political Science Association and the Galing Pook Foundation Inc. He has also served as Editor-in-Chief of the Asia-Pacific Social Science Review and on the Editorial Boards of the Journal of Public Affairs Education and the Journal of Social Equity and Public Administration. In 2022, he received the Achievement Award for Division I from the National Research Council of the Philippines. By participating in the United Board Fellows Program, he aims to enhance his leadership skills and perspectives on managing a Christian institution of higher learning. He seeks to inspire his colleagues, support them with compassion, and empower them to find purpose in their work, guided by Lasallian values of faith, service, and communion. His goal is to foster collaboration and excellence, nurturing an educational environment that advances the university’s mission of forming responsible and socially engaged citizens.

Dr. Thongthiane Vathanavong

Souphanouvong University, Laos

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Dr. Vathanavong is an expert in Outcome-Based Education (OBE) and Understanding by Design (UbD), creating structured educational programs. He specializes in Learner-Centered Pedagogy, enhancing critical thinking through active participation, and advocates for Lesson Study methods for collaborative teaching improvement. Proficient in SPSS Data Analysis, he ensures evidence-based decisions in educational research, while integrating educational technology to modernize learning and promoting Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) to tackle rural socio-economic and environmental challenges. He is currently serving as Vice Dean of the Faculty of Education at Souphanouvong University.  

Dr. A. Priscilla Paul

Lady Doak College, India

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Dr. Priscilla Paul, a mathematician specializing in Graph Theory, has over 20 years of experience at Lady Doak College, Madurai, India. She has taught both undergraduate and postgraduate courses and served as Head (In-charge) of the Mathematics Department. Additionally, she has held roles such as Timetable Committee coordinator, Prizes Committee Coordinator, National Service Scheme (NSS) Program Officer, and Treasurer for major events. With a Ph.D. in Mathematics, Dr. Paul contributes to academia through research, guest lectures, and peer review, dedicated to advancing education and promoting academic growth. 

Dr. Mosae Selvakumar Paulraj

Asian University for Women, Bangladesh

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Dr. Mosae Selvakumar Paulraj serves as Associate Professor and Director of the Environmental Sciences Program at the Asian University for Women, Bangladesh. He holds degrees in Chemistry and a Ph.D. from the Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute (CSMCRI). With experience in industry and academia, he focuses on supramolecular chemistry, nanomaterials, sustainability, and water treatment. Collaborating with BSRI and PDB-PRI, he also leads the "Green Bangle Project" promoting environmental conservation. Co-author of Source Reduction and Waste Minimization, Dr. Paulraj is a member of professional societies such as IUCN and the American Chemical Society (ACS). 

Dr. FX. Risang Baskara

Sanata Dharma University, Indonesia

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Dr. Risang Baskara is a dedicated professional with extensive experience in the field of education and community development. He has a strong academic background and has held various roles that demonstrate his commitment to improving educational outcomes. Dr. Risang has been actively involved in numerous projects aimed at empowering communities and fostering sustainable development. His expertise and passion for making a positive impact are evident in his work and contributions to the field. 

Dr. Mark Daevid M. Adem

Trinity University of Asia, Philippines

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Dr. Mark Daevid M. Adem, a Ph.D. graduate in International Hospitality and Tourism Management, holds a Magna Cum Laude Bachelor's in Hotel and Restaurant Management and an MBA. He studied tourism economics in Japan and earned an Academic Excellence Award while pursuing his Ph.D. in 2022. Currently, he serves as Manager of Trinity Innovation Hub and full-time faculty at Trinity University of Asia, where he has held roles as Research Coordinator and Internal Quality Auditor. Recognized for four years as a Top 10 Scientist in the AD Scientific Index, Dr. Adem is active in academia and industry, holding certifications and serving as a trainer, assessor, and leader in hospitality-related institutions. 

Dr. Vijayasankar Aloor Viswambaram

CHRIST (Deemed to be University), India

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Dr. Vijayasankar A. V. is a distinguished academic with extensive experience in the field of chemistry. He has contributed significantly to the study of heterogeneous catalysis, traditional medicines, drug synthesis, advanced material synthesis, organic fine chemical synthesis, with numerous publications in reputed journals. Dr. Vijayasankar has been actively involved in various research projects and has presented his findings at several international conferences. He is also a dedicated educator, mentoring students and guiding them in their academic pursuits. His work has been recognized with several awards and honors, reflecting his commitment to excellence in research and teaching. Dr. Vijayasankar A.V. serves as the Controller of Examinations and Professor in Chemistry at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, India. 

Rev. Fr. Macwayne N. Maniwang

University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao, Philippines

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Fr. Macwayne N. Maniwang, CICM, Ph.D., has been the President of the University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao since January 2023. A moral theologian and servant leader, he has held roles such as Chaplain, Parish Priest, Principal, and Vice President for Mission and Identity. As Chair of the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary – Philippines Social Network (CICM-PSN), he advocates for holistic education grounded in social responsibility. Through the United Board Fellows Program, he aims to enhance leadership strategies and faith-based education while advancing the CICM mission of scholarship, service, and community empowerment. 

Dr. Jandy E. Luik

Petra Christian University, Indonesia

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Dr Jandy E. Luik is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication Science at Petra Christian University (PCU). He earned his Ph.D. from the University of York, U.K. Over nearly 20 years at PCU, he has held various leadership roles, including overseeing TV and Radio Labs, Public Relations, and since 2021, Head of the Department of Communication Science. His research focuses on media and communication, especially creative and digital media. He has managed external grants for research and community development. Through the United Board Fellows Program, Dr Jandy aims to enhance his leadership skills in higher education, fostering innovative leadership, transformative networks, and university-industry engagement. 

 

Dr. Linet Christilda Gnanalilly

Women's Christian College, India

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Dr. R. Linet Christilda is an accomplished academician, researcher, and certified trainer with over two decades of experience in commerce education. She currently serves as the Dean of Research, and heads the PG Department of Commerce, Women’s Christian College, Chennai. With a Ph.D. in Electronic Payment Systems and qualifications including UGC-NET and SET, she brings strong research credentials and innovative teaching practices to higher education. Dr. Linet is a passionate advocate of student-centric learning, service-learning pedagogy, and digital education. She has completed several international courses under the United Board and has been recognized through prestigious leadership experiences, including the Haggai Leader Experience in Malaysia. Her academic portfolio includes published research in UGC CARE journals, editorial roles in journals and books, and service on Boards of Studies and Examinations at leading institutions. As a frequent resource person and trainer, she has led numerous faculty development programs and student workshops. Her digital initiatives include a blog on YouTube (“Learning Made Simple”) and a Moodle platform for blended learning. Deeply committed to holistic education, Dr. Linet combines scholarship, mentorship, leadership, and community engagement in shaping the next generation of responsible, value-driven professionals.

Dr. Smarika Lawrance

St. Aloysious College, India

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Dr Smarika Lawrance is currently the Head, Department of Chemistry, and Assistant Professor in St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India. Prior to the post of HOD she had worked in St Aloysius College since 2005 as an Assistant Professor. She obtained her Ph.D. on Defluoridation of Drinking Water from Rani Durgawati University. The areas of her research interest are water treatment, adsorption and nanoparticle chemistry. She is currently a project coordinator for a peace program entitled “Creative Approaches to Peace for Whole Person Education” sponsored by the United Board. She was the program coordinator for the Star College Scheme, under the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology in New Delhi, from 2020-2023 and actively involved in strengthening the undergraduate component. She is presently teaching chemistry and monitoring 400 students at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Her key areas of interest are singing, listening to music, reading and cooking. Through the United Board Fellows Program, she aims to refine her conflict resolution and problem-solving skills, which will be instrumental in empowering both students and faculty.

Dr. Ethel ONG

De La Salle University, Philippines

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Dr. Ethel Ong is a Professor at De La Salle University's Department of Software Technology in Manila, Philippines. She is the Dean of the College of Computer Studies and the Founding Dean of The Academy. Previously, she directed the Senior High School Engagement Program (2017-2023), the Advanced Research Institute for Informatics, Computing and Networking (2015-2017), and chaired the Department of Software Technology (2002-2015). Her research on automated story generation systems and narrative-based conversational interfaces has applications in learning and healthcare, supported by grants from UNICEF and the Department of Science and Technology in the Philippines. She also trains students, educators, and researchers on research curriculum design, ethics, responsible AI, and AI integration in education.