Update for Savita Nair's Family: Share Stories +

Leila Carroll over 1 year ago

Hi, testing out the comment and sending a lot of love

Tejaswini Ganti over 1 year ago

The first time I met Savita was in September 1991 when we were both enrolled in a graduate seminar at the University of Pennsylvania. That began a 30+ year friendship where we were roommates in West Philadelphia during grad school; we were involved with each others' wedding planning and celebrations; shared an apartment in Bombay during dissertation research; were pregnant at the same time; we shared so many milestones as well as hours and hours of conversation about anything and everything. She was the sister that I never had. My mother definitely thought of her as another daughter. I am so very grateful for her friendship and fortunate to have had her be such an integral part of my adult life. I will miss her terribly -- her laugh, her curious and adventurous spirit, her caring nature, and so many other qualities that made her the lovely and amazing person that she was. My deepest condolences to John, Shanta Aunty, Priya, Anjali, Mira, Leila, and the extended Nair and Carroll families.

David Ludden over 1 year ago

Savita was a wonderful person to work with as a graduate student and it was an honor to know her family as she married her sweetheart and had her beautiful daughters. I only wish we had see her with them more as they grew into such impressive women, very much in the image of their mom. She was a bright light in a very troubled land. Please let us all hug her spirit of warmth and kindness. I will always cherish her lasting presence in my life. My heart is with her whole family at this sad time.

Ritty Lukose over 1 year ago

I met Savita in the early 90s at the University of Pennsylvania. While we were not in touch personally over these last many years, I would get updates from Teja or very occasionally see her at a conference. I remember running into her in NYC many years ago. But I followed her from afar on FB and the evolution of her beautiful family. I will always remember Savita as so warm and kind and grounded and I am so sad to hear this. My heart goes out to her family at this difficult time. I know her beautiful presence will continue to thrive through those she left behind.

Shreedevi Thacker over 1 year ago

Meeting Savita in 1991 at Penn was like opening to an explosion of joy, color, laughter, warmth, sharing. Bright, capable, inquisitive and fun, Savita encouraged and motivated all around her and I recall laughing often when around her. The life she created is a testament to her beautiful spirit. Although we were not in regular communication, she was always a presence in my life (once even fortuitously on a magazine cover - while at an airport - picturing her, John and the beautiful children). I will cherish that presence and her spirit. Condolences to the whole family, wishing you peace and love at this time.

Mytheli Sreenivas over 1 year ago

From the first time I met Savita in Philadelphia in September 1994, I knew I had a found a generous, brilliant, and kind friend and mentor. I'm so grateful for the years I spent in her company at Penn, and for our ongoing friendship in the decades after. Our last in-person meeting was over lunch at her home in 2019, which I remember for the joy and love--and wonderful food--that was always part of time spent with Savita and John. My condolences to John, Anjali, Mira, and Leila, and to the Nair and Carroll families. My heart is with you at this time.

Riley Hughes over 1 year ago

There is no question about the legacy that Savita has left. She was instrumental in the lives of so many people, mine included. She was my professor, my advisor, my mentor, an advocate on my behalf, a role model, and my friend. As a powerful woman, she empowered those around her. She never failed to show compassion. She showed unwavering support for those who needed it and amplified their voices. I am grateful for her guidance as I pursued WGSS, as I navigated my transition to grad school, and throughout our check-ins and lunch dates post-Furman. I most cherish, though, the role she played as I cared for my mother who passed in 2021. She was a light in a very dark time, and I know I am not the only one who experienced that. The impact she has had on those around her is a testament to the type of person she was. Because of this, I know her memory will continue to burn brightly. I am sending love and positive energy to her family - the same that she so generously shared with me.

Traci Jersen over 1 year ago

Sending you all so much love - Mira, Leila, Anjali, John, Priya, Matt and Mrs. Nair. I met Savita when I was in 7th grade with Priya and from the day I met her looked up to her. Dave went to Kindergarten with Priya and has known her most of his life. She was always full of grace and stunning beauty. I will remember her kindness, intelligence, thoughtfulness and spirit. She also had a fantastic laugh. A tremendous loss for her family, friends, colleagues and the world. We will always remember her with joy.

Grace Rij over 1 year ago

Savita was a professor I will never forget at Furman. She was the reason I ended up minoring in women, gender, and sexuality studies my senior year. I was very shy in class and never was one to speak up, but Savita’s class was different. She made the classroom such a fun and inviting place. I looked forward to her class every week and she actually made me want to raise my hand in class which was a rarity at the time. She made me feel special and that my opinion mattered. I truly am saddened to hear about her passing but she will live on in my heart as one of my favorite professors. She loved her daughters dearly and would often talk about them in her class discussions. My thoughts and prayers are with you all, you have an amazing mom.

Melody Lehn over 1 year ago

I met Savita as a Women's and Gender Studies minor at Furman nearly twenty years ago. I was a transfer student and I took history course on southeast Asia with her in summer school. I was so intimidated by the subject matter, and yet she made the course wonderfully accessible and vibrant. She was formative in my decision to continue with women's and gender studies, and I am now a department chair in that area at my institution. Savita was a kind and inspiring teacher who shaped my trajectory in measurable ways. Those of us who knew her were so blessed. Much love to her family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues at this time.

Sandhya Purohit And Brian Caton over 1 year ago

We met Savita in 1993-94, as we entered grad school. She helped guide us into that environment: always encouraging, always lively in discussion. She had an unsurpassed ability to read and react to people, which made her an excellent teacher. She enjoyed bringing people together, nourishing and supporting her community in ways both big and small. In all her roles in life, most especially as a mother to her three beloved daughters, she conveyed both wisdom and mischievousness. She was an attentive friend. Our whole family grieves and prays with hers. May Savita's beautiful soul be uplifted.

Hannah Jefferies over 1 year ago

I met Dr. Nair as a Furman student around 20 years ago. I don’t think I ever had her for a course, but I definitely interacted with her as part of (what was then) the Women’s and Gender Studies (WGS) concentration and through her close connection with the Feminist Initiative student group, which I helped lead for several years. I remember her as a positive person who encouraged curiosity and dialogue. I am saddened to hear about her passing, but I hope the knowledge that she has touched and shaped so many people’s lives brings her family a measure of comfort at such a difficult time. I’m so very sorry for your loss.

Lilah Westmoreland over 1 year ago

Savita was possibly the kindest person I’ve ever met. Not superficially, but in a genuine way - determined to think the best of everyone, willing to give her time and energy to those who needed support or a kind word, always looking for the good in situations and people. I don't think I ever heard her complain, and I certainly never heard her speak ill of someone. Although I’m sure she had her flaws, like we all do, she was a shining example of the best in humanity. Anjali, Mira, and Leila are all amazing reflections of their parents’ love and goodwill, and what love it was. Savita and John were so plainly and unabashedly delighted to be together. What sweetness this world can hold. John, Anjali, Mira, and Leila: I am comforted to know you have one another during this time, and I hope the love our community has for you will be felt. All my heartfelt condolences on your loss.

Ellen Amster over 1 year ago

Savita was already a kind and generous soul in graduate school at University of Pennsylvania when I met her, and an expansive brilliant intellect. Her gentle strength and grace in the world also influenced everyone she met; she brought a quiet and calm to a stressful environment. And she was a true friend--I stayed with her and with you John for some months when everything fell through for me, thank you. Anjali was two and Savita, John and Anjali welcomed me to their lovely home with those dark purple bedroom walls, a house they were always fixing. Anjali showed me all the bees in the garden. Savita was a radiant generous soul, it does not surprise me at all that she became such an excellent teacher, a valued colleague and friend, and their daughters grew to be such wonderful people as well. John, Anjali, Mira, Leila, thank you for sharing your family with me and I am so grateful to have known Savita. Our deepest condolences for your grief and sadness at this most difficult of times. May her memory be for a blessing.

Rukmani Sen over 1 year ago

I met Savita aunty for the first time when I was just a child. She was literally the embodiment of the most fun aunt that you can imagine. I remember the time she came to India with her students and made special time for my mom and I to have dinner with her. I remember that dinner distinctly. She had brought me a beautiful outfit and she spoke very fondly and proudly of her daughters. I also remember the time I came to America during Christmas and stayed at Shanta amama’s house. It’s one of the most precious memories I have, because that Christmas was just like the movies. I must have mentioned in passing that I like to collect toys called ‘Little Pets’. On Christmas Day when I opened my gift Savita aunty had bought me a beautiful Little Pets toy set, that I treasure and still have. She was really listening to everything I had to say. She was also so curious and eager to learn. It didn’t matter that I was 10 or 11 years old she would still practice her Hindi with me. I will always treasure these beautiful memories. Sending lots of love and strength to the family ❤️

Adi Dubash over 1 year ago

I want to express my sincere condolences to the the Nair and Carroll family for your profound loss. When I met Savita upon joining Furman in 2015, she quickly became and friend and mentor I looked up to. Savita's spirit, warmth in relating to others, kindness and deeply held beliefs of inclusion are just a few of reasons all of her colleagues cherished her, including me. She always freely gave her time and attention to anyone she was talking with and I will really miss our conversations. She truly and genuinely cared deeply about her friends and colleagues and her loss is tragic for everyone who knew her. John, Mira, Leila and Anjali, please know that Savita's impact and legacy will be remembered and cherished for a long time, and she will be terribly missed.

Hilary Kalisman over 1 year ago

I only knew Savita briefly when she welcomed me to Furman's History Department in 2016. She was very kind to me and to my family. I remember being so impressed with her work ethic, her moral compass, her intellect and her grace to colleagues and to students. Joining her at Women and Gender Studies events, having her support mine with the Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies minor, I was proud to be her colleague. I very much took to heart her clear-sighted advice, on raising her wonderfully accomplished daughters, on dealing with students with kindness and compassion, and with navigating Furman. She was a wonderful person and she made a real impact on me. My husband also remembers her kindness towards us and our children. May her memory be for a blessing.

Clive Tricker over 1 year ago

I knew you but a short time, but recognized immediately (and heard from many more) what a wonderful and caring person you were. Your presence will forever be missed but you will live on through your wonderful daughters Anjali, Mira and Leila. Rest in peace, Savita.

Valerie Stoker over 1 year ago

I am shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Savita's death. Savita and I met at Bharatanatyam classes in lower Manhatten in the early 90s and continued our friendship in Philadelphia where we both pursued South Asia-related PhDs at Penn. We had not been in touch very much in recent years, except over Facebook and at the occasional conference. But I always admired the priority she placed on her relationships with her family, friends, and students, a priority that can be seen shining through in the comments here. Savita was also one of the first women in my social circle to have children and she provided a great example of how to achieve work-life balance. She was immensely proud of her daughters, Anjali, Mira, and Leila, and her husband, John. My deepest condolences to you all.

Emily M over 1 year ago

Savita became my advisor when I switched my major to History. Since the shift was fairly last minute in my college career, I was somewhat anxious about my plan moving forward, both in terms of graduation and career. I'll never forget how caring Savita was throughout the whole process -- she really went above and beyond to talk with me, listening to my concerns and helping me think through my options. I went on to take her course on women and gender in South Asia, and it was one of the best of my college career. I admired her greatly, and am sure she had a profound impact on countless other students as well. My heart is with her family during this time.

Ashley Farrington over 1 year ago

Dr. Nair was my adviser in the history department at Furman and was always a bright light of guidance and reassurance. My roommates nannied for her girls when they were little, and it was always fun to see them around campus and hear about their love for their mom. She was obviously deeply cherished by all of her family and students. My heart goes out to all of Dr. Nair’s family as they navigate this time of grief.

Sarah Given over 1 year ago

Dr. Nair held a guest lecture on my prospective student day, and it was in part because of that lecture that I decided to go to Furman. She was such an amazing professor, but more importantly, she was incredibly kind and always remembered your name. I am so grateful to have known her and the impact she left on so many students. We will certainly miss her!

Michael McPhee over 1 year ago

Dr. Nair is one of the hallmarks of my experience at Furman. She taught me so much more than history, she taught me the importance of being a good human. I took every class that I could with her. At the end of the term she would often invite her classes to her home to share a meal with her family. One time I remember that I was just old enough to drink and she had one her daughter's checking our ids. Her daughter was having so much fun with this and Dr. Nair was helping her to do the math to make sure we were of age to drink. This feels like such a small experience to remember, but for me it just showed how much she cared and loved those around her. It taught me in early adulthood the importance of integrating your personal and professional life, that everything can be a learning opportunity, that we are so much more to the world than meets the eye. Dr. Nair was a rare gift to the world and I'm so sorry for her family's and our community's loss. We are with you and sending you love.

Brita Long over 1 year ago

Dr. Nair was my advisor at Furman. And yes, she told me I could call her Savita, but I still always think of her as the dynamic professor I met as a prospective student at 17. I am in shock to hear of her passing, and I hope I told her enough times over the years how much she inspired. As a student, of course. I majored in history and concentrated in WGS, and she had great faith in me. I took her Gender History of South Asia class and grew so much in my understanding of the world. But she also inspired me as a feminist, as a human being. I've always known that I wanted to keep my last name upon marriage, but prior to Dr. Nair, I only knew one woman who did. Just seeing her have a beautiful marriage and family with different last names reassured me that I could have the same. Last year, I celebrated the birth of my son, with a hyphenated last name. This year, my husband and I celebrated 10 years of marriage. Oh, and when Furman's history department accidentally thanked me (the actual alumnae) and my husband for our donation by addressing us to his last name, she had my back and made sure the mistake didn't happen again. Also, I have a funny story of how she taught me. My sorority honored Dr. Nair as our professor of the year one year, and she spoke at our academic banquet. She talked about having her children while getting her Ph.D. This is how I learned that women can leak breastmilk if they're breastfeeding. I'm still breastfeeding my son, and with my ample supply, I've leaked a lot. It's a silly thing, but I thought of her every time I leaked through my bra (even with breast pads in). She showed me what a woman could accomplish while still having a family. I'll be forever grateful for that.

Monica Shah over 1 year ago

I first met Savita in Philadelphia, while we both were taking Gujarati at UPenn. One of the memories that sticks with me to this day is her description of meeting John and their time in Pittsburgh, of John singing Van Morrison's Brown Eyed Girl to her. For the last 30 years, whenever I hear that song, I think of you both. And, it brings a smile to my face, remembering the love that shined in her eyes talking about John. The other memory is her dancing while pregnant with Anjali. I will dance with joy and think of Savita. My condolences to John, Anjali, Mira, Leila, and all the Nairs and Carrolls.

Lizzie Tricker over 1 year ago

It was the Summer of 2021 when I first met Savita. Our two families took an AirBnB in NC, arranged by Spencer, and Anjali. I felt an immediate connection with Savita when we started conversing and getting acquainted the first day we arrived. We shared stories of our children, and different cooking recipes and discovered that we love many of the same foods. I knew then that our families would be close for years to come. I will miss Savita dearly, she will always hold a special place in my heart.

Eunice Kim over 1 year ago

In my first year at Furman, there was an open teaching day where you could visit classes and observe how others teach. I chose to sit in on Savita's class when she was teaching Edward Said's Orientalism. It's a tough text and students made it clear within the first minute of class how intimidated they were by theory and how they didn't really get it. Watching how Savita got students to admit to their vulnerabilities and make the most of it was eye-opening. She groaned with them, laughed with them, asked questions with them, and worked through problems with them. In the end, everyone came out of class with a better understanding of orientalism than anyone had imagined would be possible, including myself. This memory really captures so many things I love about Savita, particularly her ability to help make people the best they can be and -- more importantly -- to find fun in places where it seems like no fun is to be had. I, together with so many others, always had fun with Savita. Perhaps the most fun I had with her was sticking up our middle fingers in front of the Derry Girls mural in Ireland and later on grabbing cocktails in a secret speakeasy. Her joyful spirit is one we all -- her family and countless others she's touched -- will always carry with us.

Scott Henderson over 1 year ago

Savita was a dear friend and wonderful colleague. I have many memories I could share of her generosity and gracious spirit, but one that comes to mind occurred back in 2012. I had had a minor surgical procedure that was keeping me housebound for a few days. I posted a comment or two about that fact on Facebook. Within a few hours, I received an email from Savita, telling me that she'd left a bag on my front step. The bag contained a number of food items and treats that would save me from having to hobble around in my kitchen preparing meals for myself during my brief recovery. That was exactly the type of person Savita was--always ready to show kindness and compassion without ever being asked or prompted. The world needs more people like that; it now has one fewer, one whom we will all miss dearly.

Nellie Boucher over 1 year ago

I worked with Savita from 2008-2011, when I was fresh out of grad school and starting my first job. The kindness she showed me when I was struggling to find my feet in the classroom was incredible. I could ask her any question, talk openly about what went right or wrong - Savita was a true mentor. She made me a better teacher and modeled the kind of generosity of spirit that I still try to emulate. Her love for her family, her community, and her job were so clear. What a wonderful, adventurous, giving life she led. I am lucky to have shared this world with her.

Ashley Maddock over 1 year ago

Savita was one of my favorite professors at Furman. She carried herself with such grace and always challenged her students to both see the best in people and do their best to make a positive impact in the world around them. She was the kindest soul and was so incredibly wise.

Victoria Turgeon over 1 year ago

Savita touched my life in so many ways from being a guiding force to sharing a love of good food and wine to lovingly taking of our children. I am so saddened by her loss, but I know that her grace, kindness and joy lives on in her beautiful daughters and every person she inspired to be better.

Angel Carroll over 1 year ago

Please accept my condolences! Sending love! ❤️

Alyson Farzad-Phillips over 1 year ago

When you’re a new member of any community, walking into a meeting space alone can feel intimidating. I have a distinct memory of sitting in a faculty council meeting at Furman and Savita making sure to speak to me, connect personally with me (I was teaching her niece but she wouldn’t tell me who until the semester ended), and offer her general warmth and kindness. That interaction sticks with me and even though my relationship with Savita was brief, I feel like I got a glimpse of the incredible warm, fiercely loyal, and genuinely caring person that she was. To those who knew her and loved her, I can only imagine the sense of loss. I am sending all my love and condolences to Savita’s family and the Furman community.

Julia Gatten over 1 year ago

Dr. Nair was my advisor at Furman as a history major. I had my first course with her Freshman year after and my last moments in a Furman classroom were during her senior seminar. It was a late afternoon class on the last day of classes senior year, and I climbed out of the fountain in front of the library to go back in and learn from her one last time. As a teacher, she challenged me to grow in the best ways and put my voice into the world. Interests and insights I formed during her courses carried with me through grad school. Along with the hours in the classroom, I remember all the advisory meetings. Dr. Nair encouraged me to think outside the confines of majors and explore my many different interests during my time at Furman and beyond. I think of those conversations often and am so grateful for the guidance that was always given with so much encouragement and belief in me. Keeping in touch after graduation, she told me to "do away with this Dr. Nair nonsense and call me Savita," but I never could. You'll always be my teacher and advisor. I'll forever be grateful and carry you with me.

Liz Smith over 1 year ago

Savita was a dear friend. Kind, supportive, funny, smart, a great listener, loving. I miss her very much. One of my favorite memories was our first trip to Ireland/Northern Ireland to prepare for the Cothran faculty seminar. Even though COVID was still an issue, John, Jess and I had so much fun travelling around the country together and Savita was so excited to share with us what she loved about Ireland. It was a whirlwind trip with the last day spent in the airport ALL day long because the beverage truck had wrecked into our plane on the ground and we couldn't fly. We ended up staying an extra night and Savita made sure we found the fun in the moment, despite the inconvenience. I will always remember fondly the conversations and laughs over drinks at the airport hotel bar that evening. Savita was one of those people who always made life more interesting and more joyful. She was an amazing colleague and person - I am so very lucky to have had her in my life.

Alison Mackenzie over 1 year ago

Savita was truly one in a million. I feel so grateful to have called her my friend. When she and John came to visit Denver a couple of years ago, I was struck by how we just picked up right where we left off, as though decades had not passed, as though our shared Philadelphia days set the groundwork for life. Savita had a special skill drawing people to her and keeping them. As for memories of Savita, there are so many flashes of her joy and generosity and sense of fun. But an indelible one is Savita coming to campus with just weeks-old baby Anjali and plunking baby and baby seat on (very surprised) David Ludden’s desk. Babies just did not show up on campus! But she was ferociously in love with family and being a parent. And her integration of family and academic life was a beacon for those of us who followed. She made it seem not only possible but joyful. It is hard to overestimate how that confidence to proudly go after everything you want as a scholar, wife, and mother stood out in the early 1990s. Maybe it still would today? She was an extraordinary person. I feel so lucky that our paths crossed. My heart aches deeply for your loss, Nair and Carroll families.

Heather Lorenz over 1 year ago

Dr. Nair was such a light to me and to so many students at Furman. The enthusiasm she demonstrated in her History of South Asia course inspired me to participate in Furman’s study abroad program in India, where Savitaji (as we affectionately called her) was the mother hen of our group. Savita was a gifted teacher - always questioning, always challenging, always pushing us to dig deeper, to uncover more. She was a tough grader (one of my toughest at Furman) and was always quick to jump on a teachable moment on that trip, to our occasional irritation. As a compulsive declutterer, my essays from Savita’s classes (with her lovely handwriting in pencil in the margins) are some of the only papers I’ve kept from my college years. Savita had such a warm, compassionate spirit and truly made you feel like the only person in the room. I will always think of her with a colorful scarf around her neck, a warm smile, and a sparkle in her eye. She has left a lasting impact on my life and those of countless other Furman students. I trust that her spirit will live on through her daughters, who I know meant everything to her. 🤍

Darby Todd over 1 year ago

Savitaji was our fearless leader on my study abroad trip to India in 2013, a trip that expanded my world view in more ways than I thought possible. She was quick to laugh, quick to teach and irrefutably kind. I’m pretty sure if you look up the word ”noble” in the dictionary, there’s a picture of Dr. Nair. She LOVED her family. Eleven years later, I can still recall her family’s names: John, Anjali, Mira and Leila because she talked about them constantly, and was so deeply proud of them. She felt things to her core. I remember vividly seeing her crying happy tears in the airport, watching my best friend on our study away reunite with her boyfriend (now husband) after 10 weeks apart. Things like that mattered to her. Love, family, togetherness. Learning, Stretching. Expanding horizons. And coming Home. She illuminated this world she walked in and out of too quickly, but her light lives on. I’m so grateful for her guiding hand in one of the most formative experiences of my life. All of our prayers are with her beloved family.

Holland Grumieaux over 1 year ago

Savita was my oldest friend. We became the best of friends in 6th grade so you can imagine some of the memories I have of our days at Van Antwerp Middle School. Memories have been flowing more than ever throughout this week when I heard the news of her passing. Our lives our busy so we did not stay in touch as much as we should have but we always picked up exactly where we left off when we did. I think the memory that sticks out the most for me is when she would visit me at my parents house upstate when we both went up for the holidays in December. The last time I saw Savita was on December 23rd when she came to my parents home with John, Anjali, Spencer and Mira (Leila was having fun with her cousins I think). We sat around my parents family room with my parents, husband and sons chatting about our lives. I knew she was sick at that time and we had discussed the immunotherapy she was going through but she still seemed to remain hopeful and positive yet realistic with her diagnosis. The connection she so clearly had with John and her girls was so incredibly obvious. We went around the room and each person kind of talked about what they were up to and Savita just sat in that chair smiling the entire time. She beamed with pride when John, her girls and Spencer spoke and she questioned and remained fully interested when my family spoke. She was fully engaged. I guess that is one of the things I will always remember most about my beautiful friend. She never did anything halfway - she was always fully in and completely present. She took such an interest in the lives of her loved ones and the world around her. We talked about her job and a few months later about the tough decision she made about retiring. I can only imagine how hard that was for her since she seemed to thrive in the career she had chosen. But what I will always remember most is the love she had for John, her girls, her parents and Priya. I just read a post that Leila wrote this week about Savita and I think she nailed it beautifully - "Our mom loved fully and deeply...Our mom appreciated the small details and wanted to know them all..." I could not agree more with these statements - I will love and miss Savita forever - my deepest condolences to her beautiful family - I am truly heartbroken!

Anu Sharma over 1 year ago

Savita was such a smart, warm, vivacious and generous person. What a beautifully lived life! It’s hard to believe that she is gone. Sending love to the family.

Pratima Prasad over 1 year ago

May you rest in peace, dear Savita. You were a bright shining light during my graduate school years at Penn when we were roommates. You were one of the kindest people I knew. You touched so many people—including me—with your goodness. I hold on to the memories of all the carefree fun we had together in our apartment in West Philly. But one memory I often come back to is a conversation on the green next to Locust walk in front of the library—you gave me strength and reminded me that I had a true friend in you when I was not in a good place. My deepest condolences to John and the girls.

Emily Barksdale over 1 year ago

Dr. Nair taught my senior seminar for my Asian Studies major at Furman in spring 2012, and I learned so much from her personally and academically. She was an inspiring, radiant force for good for faculty and students. She beautifully bridged professionalism and relatability, and many concepts I learned from and discussed with her are foundational to my worldview today.

Caroline Sistare over 1 year ago

Savitaji, you are already so missed! Dr. Nair really helped to shape my last and most influential year at Furman. I went into her classes and our study abroad program with an interest in gender studies and south Asian history but came out with lifelong appreciation because of how she taught us. Though I was never really a good student myself, I believe that Dr. Nair saw how my love of learning translated more to outside of the classroom and she nurtured that. She was one of my biggest inspirations when I became a history teacher and her kind words when I started have carried me through. Much love to the Carrolls and her whole family- she will stay carried in all of us.

Sofia Kearns over 1 year ago

I am finding it very hard to make sense of the loss of this extraordinary human being, who made such a big impact on so many people around her. I remember very well when Savita first arrived at Furman and how she immediately impressed everyone with her bright intellect, her elegance and poise. She was an amazing colleague, teacher, mentor of students and colleagues, and a leader in so many university initiatives and programs. What stays with me is her beautiful smile and laugh, which were expressions of her kindness, and deep sense of inclusivity and fairness toward everyone. It was always fun to be around her. May her love and compassion continue to inspire all who had the honor of knowing her and spending time with her. Our deepest sympathy to John, Anjali, Mira, Leila, her beautiful mom, her sister and the rest of the family. Sofía and Drew Kearns

Elizabeth Leeder over 1 year ago

Dr. Nair was one of my most influential professors I have ever had. She opened my eyes to the ability of how to have hard conversations about history and how how these topics influxes our daily lives and media today. She encouraged me to pursue my academic interests even if they were considered less valuable than other topics to the historical community. Her consistent encouragement and joy of teaching motives me in my own teaching career. I can only hope to make the impact that she made on me on one of my own students. Sending love and prayers.

Buket Oztas over 1 year ago

Savita's mentorship has empowered countless individuals, myself included, to discover our community at Furman, thrive, and succeed, making every interaction not only educational but deeply transformative. I remember visiting her class in my second year at Furman, as she skillfully navigated a discussion on Orientalism, and learning from her expertise in handling such delicate subjects. Her commitment to not only imparting knowledge but also fostering personal growth was evident in every interaction, and this pedagogical approach continues to inspire me to this day. Fortunately, I had the privilege of learning from her beyond Furman as well. Savita's leadership as the faculty co-director of the Cothran Center trip to Ireland and Northern Ireland was truly exemplary. The way she framed the program for us and joined me in Belfast on a trip to the Linen Hall reshaped my perspective on designing learning experiences, organizing site visits, and cultivating local connections that are meaningful for every participant—no matter their background and interests. Savita's incredible spirit and contributions have left an indelible mark on all of us who have been fortunate to know her. She will be deeply missed.

Linda Bartlett over 1 year ago

I had the pleasure of meeting Savita as part of her job interview at Furman. It was a wonderful conversation, of course. We were fortunate she decided to join us, bringing to our campus her joy, deep humanity, and devotion to students, colleagues, the institution, and her discipline. What a mark she has left. I am so grieved for all of us who knew her, but especially for her beloved family. Sending you all my deepest condolences and warmest affection. May you find comfort in these difficult days.

Karen Cardozo over 1 year ago

I met Savita in the early 2000s when she was a visiting prof at Mount Holyoke and we were colleagues in Asian American Studies. Turns out her expertise involved the history of my own diasporic family who went from Goa India to East Africa! So of course I brought her to meet my parents who lived nearby and who were thrilled to know her. Savita’s work was fascinating, but her personality and character even more appealing—so genuine, honest, kind and funny. Once our families met, with my oldest son Tom in the same class as Anjali at school, and Jonah dubbed “Dona” by a toddling Mira, we fell in love with the entire Nair-Carroll crew. When the dueling Karen/John guitars came out, we even had our own theme song the girls would sing, to a tune that sounded suspiciously like Frere Jacques: “Tom and Jonah, Tom and Jonah-this one’s Tom, and that one’s Jonah!” (Grammy-nominated we were not.) You felt like our twin family and we had many great times together, now regretting that we didn’t keep in better touch over the years. If this loss feels unimaginable to us, I can only imagine the huge hole that has been torn open in your world, John Anjali Mira and Leila, as it has for your loved ones and community. I hope it brings comfort to know what a light Savita was to so many, how well you all loved each other and that a huge village is out here holding you in our hearts and prayers. John, Tom, Jonah and I along with my parents and all who met your family when you graced the Pioneer Valley with your presence send you much love, strength from afar, and deep faith that Savita’s spirit will never leave you, just as her memory will never leave us. Our door will always be open to you and yours as you long ago took up permanent residence in our hearts. 💞

Laura Matthew over 1 year ago

Savita and I were partners in pregnancy in grad school at Penn. Welcoming her girls into the world and building a life together with John made her light shine brighter than ever! Her love and joy were contagious. My heart hurts -- I am so sorry for your loss and send my deepest condolences.

Elizabeth Campbell over 1 year ago

Dr. Nair was one of the first professors, if not the first, I met at Furman as a freshman history student. Any nervousness I felt went away completely after my first advising sessions with her. She put me at ease, and I’ll never forget how calm, wise, and honestly cool she was. I had the joy and privilege of having her as my advisor for all four years where she gave me some of the best advice for navigating college and life. She was also responsible for giving the single greatest piece of guidance one could give to me, a mathematically challenged person—she told me that I could take a summer math class. I was always impressed that she knew me and my strengths and interests enough to know that this would be a lifesaver. I also took a wonderful seminar with her where she taught me so much about diversifying my perspectives and engaging in deep and nuanced conversations about really complicated topics. I’m not exaggerating when I say Dr. Nair’s presence, guidance, and mentorship were significant positive factors that shaped my college experience. She was an excellent person, and she will be missed so much. Sending love and strength to her family in the days ahead.

Genevieve F over 1 year ago

While our paths crossed only a few times, I feel as if I know your mom so well because of the light and love that she instilled in you, Leila! What a blessing it is to have you as a friend, you are not only the spitting image of your mother’s beauty but carry her generosity, kindness, and love for those around her with you. I love your family so dearly, and am sending you all peace and warmth.

Cathy Stevens over 1 year ago

I have so many memories of darling Savita. I don't remember the first time I met her because it was around 21 years ago! But I do remember meeting her three precious daughters for the first time around a bonfire at Rocky Bottom. They were around 8, and 5, and 2, and I remember talking with Anjali about education inequities! I also just remember Savita and John always being in love and always being each other's person. When I had my first child in 2008 and was returning to work after maternity leave, Savita made sure to swing by and check on me that morning - she gave me a beautiful pep talk about being a working mother. She came by to visit all our new babies, brought delicious food, and encouraged me in her calm, sacred voice. I'll never forget getting to spend an evening together in London in the summer of 2024. It was happenstance that we were both across the pond, and I'll always think of her when I hear the song The Black Dog. One final memory - she was such a gift giver. Every time we had lunch this past year, she'd bring a small gift - a loaf of bread, something for the boys, a hat. I'll never stop missing her.

Kailash Khandke over 1 year ago

We first met Savita when she arrived on campus in 2003. Within a short time, we knew that she would be a magnanimous presence on Furman’s campus. Once we met John, Anjali, Mira, and Leila, we knew that our friendship would become stronger over the years. We are devastated by Savita’s loss. But we know that Savita’s presence and legacy will endure. With much love to the family. Kailash, Veena & Divya

Rebecca Lee over 1 year ago

Savita was my professor at Mt. Holyoke in 2002. In all the years that have passed since, whenever I'm asked about teachers I remember the most, I think of her. She was brilliant and warm and sincere. I admired her and she was so encouraging. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Adrienne Robertson over 1 year ago

Dr. Nair was my academic advisor all through my career at Furman. There isn't enough space on this form to express how many things I learned from her. I wrote a statement in support of her nomination for the recent teaching award. I didn't realize that would be our last exchange. Someone read it to her and she knew the gravity of the effect she'd had on my life, for which I will always be grateful.

Rachel Inabinet over 1 year ago

How we loved and appreciated Savita (and your family)! Savita was so supportive during our pandemic pregnancy and especially the early days with a little one in an uncertain world. She brought us meals, hugs, and was such a ray of light and warmth. When she was around, you just felt so comforted and secure. She quickly volunteered first Mira and then Leila to help watch Felix so we could get some work done (or rest)! And we hadn’t even asked - but that was so much like Savita. She saw a need and she filled it. An angel in so many ways, sharing her beautiful family with us. I remember one power outage when John came through with a generator for our house and Cynthia’s house to share so we could save our food. So many acts of kindness, appreciated so much. Our hearts are with you now. We hope all of these memories and incredible stories from everyone can comfort you in the days ahead. She was a wonderful, warm person who raised such special children. And her memory lives on.

samyukta ranganathan over 1 year ago

Dr. Nair started teaching at Furman in 2003 - during my sophomore year, and she immediately felt like home. She exuded warmth and kindness and was also funny and charming. I always felt that she, her daughters and her husband were the best of friends and such a beautiful, kind family. We were to meet in India in 2020 right before Covid hit and I so regret that that meeting never happened. I am heartbroken and absolutely shocked to hear of her passing - my deepest, most heartfelt condolences to the family.

Vivek Bhandari over 1 year ago

Savita was one of the kindest, warmest, and generous people I knew, and my family and I will miss her deeply. From the very first time that I met her at Penn as an Indian, “fresh of the boat” graduate student—utterly clueless about American ways—Savita’s friendship and gentle guidance served as a source of perspective, strength, and comradeship. As she blossomed professionally over the years, as a wife mother to three lovely daughters--Charu and I shared in her happiness and drew strength from her resilience and good energy. (We were evocatively reminded of this when we met in Greenville in early-2020.) She always welcomed us into her social world, and we greatly admired the way she prioritized human connections over all else, always with a sense of fun! As parents of two strong daughters--Charu and I always felt a special bond with Savita and John, and of course Anjali, Mira and Leila. As we look ahead, her sense of joy and strength will remain with us, and will motivate us to do good in the world, with grace and commitment to the values that we share. As members of her extended family, we grieve her loss and send those closest to her peace and all our love.

Alice Williams over 1 year ago

I met Dr. Nair through Furman's India Study Away program in 2013, a semester which changed the trajectory of my life and academic career. She was an incredible professor, with a gift for pushing us outside our comfort zones and finding teachable moments in the everyday experiences. Her classes and the India study away program expanded my worldview in the best way and made a lasting impact on my career and life. When our whole group got stranded in the Dallas airport due to a snow storm, she leveraged her superpowers as a leader and a mom and made sure we all made it home safely. She welcomed our study away cohort into her home, and it was a privilege to meet her sweet family - thank you for sharing her light with the rest of us. She was both a brilliant academic and a devoted mom, and I think of her often now that I have a daughter too. She was brilliant, incredibly kind, and a role model as both a professor and a mother. She'll be greatly missed, and the world already feels a bit dimmer without her in it. Sending all the love to her family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know her.

Missy Hammer over 1 year ago

I first met Savita in when I became an Administrative Assistant to both the History and the Asian Studies departments in 2009. She was so warm and welcoming, and I loved her immediately. She was someone that, as I became a first time “girl mom”, I would always walk into her office and ask if she had a minute… which she always did… and I would ask her advice about parenting and raising a daughter. It was obvious to me that her advice was solid because I could witness how she was raising her three amazing daughters. After four years at Furman, I left to work at my daughter’s school but I always stayed in touch with Savita throughout the years and checked in with her to see how she was doing. I returned to work in the History Department at Furman in 2023 and I was so fortunate that I was be able to attend and celebrate with Savita at her retirement parties and awards ceremony. Savita was one of the kindest people that I will ever know. She was a bright and beautiful light in this world and I am so sad that I can no longer talk to her or give her a hug. My family and I are thinking of you all at this very sad time.

Libby Weith over 1 year ago

Dear Mr. Carroll, Anjali, Mira, and Leila, I was so sorry to hear the news about Dr. Nair. She had such a profound impact on my time at Furman; she was not only an amazing professor, but also a truly thoughtful mentor - compassionate, understanding, and engaging. I have fond memories of my time with you brilliant young women too; pick-up from daycare and elementary school (it feels like just yesterday!) and weekend babysitting - you all were such a joy to spend time with and your mom was alway so so proud of you. Keeping you all in my thoughts and sending you a love. ~Libby Weith (Furman Class of 2006)

Marianne Bessy over 1 year ago

Dear John, we have been heartbroken since the passing of Savita. She was such a thoughtful, generous, and kind soul. Our thoughts are with you and your daughters during this incredibly tough time. With all our love, Marianne Bessy and James Patton

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