Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 20: November 20, 2025, was a day of dignity, gratitude, and renewed commitment at the Father Muller campuses of Kankanady and Thumbay, as two elegant handover ceremonies were held for the leadership of the Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences (FMCOAHS) and the Father Muller Allied Health Science College, Thumbay. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), presided over both ceremonies, symbolizing unity and continuity across the institution’s Allied Health fraternities.
At the FMCI Thumbay campus, Dr Pauline Anand, associate professor of Physiology at FMMC, assumed office as the new principal of Father Muller Allied Health Science College, Thumbay.
A distinguished academician with 20 years of teaching experience, Dr Pauline holds an MSc from Manipal Academy of Higher Education and a PhD from St John’s Medical College. She currently serves as the joint secretary of the Scientific Committee, FMCI, and is widely respected for her academic rigor, discipline, and unwavering commitment to student welfare.
The baton of leadership was ceremoniously passed from Dr Shivashanker A R to Dr Pauline Anand in the dignified presence of Fr Faustine, marking a moment of warmth, encouragement, and collective goodwill within the academic community.
At the Kankanady campus, the management and advisory committee members gathered to honor the exceptional service of Dr Hilda (Fernandes) D’Souza, principal of FMCOAHS, who led the College from November 16, 2022, to November 19, 2025.
Her tenure was characterized by:
• A deep commitment to academic excellence
• Compassionate mentorship for students and staff
• A strong emphasis on holistic development
• Strengthening the identity and unity of the Allied Health community at Father Muller
Dr Hilda’s journey with FMCI began on May 3, 1999, in the Department of Pathology. Rising to the rank of professor and head, she played a pivotal role in reviving classical pathology techniques and curating an invaluable collection of pathological specimens, which now serve as treasured educational tools for budding pathologists. She currently serves as president of the Indian Academy of Cytologists – Karnataka Chapter (IAC-KC) for 2025–27.
As a gesture of gratitude, Fr Faustine presented her with a certificate of appreciation, a bouquet, and a ceremonial saree draped as a shawl—a thoughtful tribute to her cherished attire.
“This symbolizes our respect and heartfelt thanks for your dedicated service,” the director remarked poignantly.
In an emotional response, Dr Hilda reflected on her journey—from a pathologist to a student of counseling and social work, and eventually to principal. She expressed her heartfelt appreciation for Dr Shivashanker’s steadfast support and fondly acknowledged her husband, Dr Clement D’Souza, as her constant guide. She concluded by affirming her joy in continuing to be a part of the Father Muller family.
The responsibilities of the principal’s office were formally handed over to Dr Shivashanker A R, marking his assumption of duty as the new principal of FMCOAHS from November 20, 2025.
A seasoned academic with 29 years of teaching experience, Dr Shivashanker is professor of Biochemistry at FMMC and FMCOAHS and serves as division head of Biochemistry, Father Muller Research Centre. He holds an MSc and PhD from Manipal Academy of Higher Education. His vast experience and grounded leadership style position him well to lead FMCOAHS into its next phase of growth.
In his address at both ceremonies, Fr Faustine emphasized the spirit of unity within the FMCI family. He highlighted the importance of collaboration between incoming and outgoing principals, noting that while positions change, the essence of service, excellence, and character remains.
Quoting the timeless truth that “change is permanent,” he reminded all present that leadership is defined not by tenure, but by the dignity and impact with which one serves the institution and uplifts its members.
He congratulated Dr Pauline Anand and Dr Shivashanker A R on their new roles and offered heartfelt wishes to Dr Hilda D’Souza for continued joy, fulfillment, and excellence in her ongoing service as professor of Pathology and in other capacities at Father Muller.
A day of transitions, gratitude, and hope
The dual ceremonies at Kankanady and Thumbay evoked pride and emotion—honoring dedicated service, welcoming new leadership, and reaffirming the enduring values of Father Muller Charitable Institutions. As the institution moves forward with renewed energy, its commitment to academic distinction, compassionate care, and holistic education remains unwavering.