Mangaluru: In a ceremony filled with reverence and hope, Rev. Dr Michael Ligory Santhumayor officially took charge as the new Administrator of Father Muller Medical College (FMMC), Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences (FMCOAHS), and Father Muller College of Physiotherapy (FMCOP) on 4 August 2025.
Ceremonial welcome held at St Joseph Chapel
The solemn welcome was held at the St Joseph Chapel of Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) at 4:00 PM. Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director of FMCI, received Rev. Dr Santhumayor at the chapel entrance, accompanied by priests of the management, the Governing Board, Management Committee, and other dignitaries. A prayer service led by Rev. Fr John Vas invoked divine blessings on the incoming administrator.
The official transition of responsibilities had taken place earlier, on 2 August, during a farewell for outgoing Administrator Rev. Fr Ajith B. Menezes, marking the culmination of his commendable service and the beginning of a new chapter under Rev. Dr Santhumayor.
Diocesan procedures and formalities
Following the chapel service, official documentation was signed in adherence to diocesan protocols, formally installing Rev. Dr Santhumayor into his new role. A felicitation function followed at the Silver Jubilee Hall, where Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo welcomed the new administrator and praised his academic and pastoral background.
Address by clergy and dignitaries
Rev. Fr Bonaventure Nazareth, Parish Priest of St Milagres Church, drew an inspiring comparison between Rev. Dr Santhumayor and Archangel Michael—portraying him as a defender of values. He described FMCI as a sanctuary of healing and academic wisdom, expressing confidence in the new leadership’s capacity to carry forward its mission.
Inaugural address by Rev. Dr Santhumayor
In his inaugural address, Rev. Dr Santhumayor invoked the words of Helen Keller: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” He stressed the importance of unity and collaboration, grounding his vision in faith, compassion, and teamwork. Thanking the Director and institution for their trust, he pledged to work closely with staff, students, and faculty to uphold FMCI’s legacy.
Background and academic excellence
A native of Moodbidri, Rev. Dr Santhumayor brings a wealth of academic and administrative experience. He holds a Ph.D. in Management, and postgraduate degrees in Economics, Business Administration, and Konkani. Over the years, he has held leadership roles at Padua PU College, Padua College of Commerce and Management, and Milagres College, Mangaluru, where he served as Principal and Campus Director.
His scholarly contributions span national and international journals, especially in education, management, and culture. He has been the recipient of numerous awards including the Outstanding Administrator Award (2024) and the Inspiring Teacher Award. Under his stewardship, institutions have seen landmark achievements in accreditations, infrastructure, and curriculum innovation.
Dignitaries at the welcome event
The welcome programme was compered by Mrs Jyothi Pinto, HR Manager, FMCI. Dr Antony Sylvan Dsouza, Dean of FMMC, formally introduced Rev. Dr Santhumayor to the gathering. A vote of thanks was delivered by Rev. Fr William Dsouza, Assistant Administrator, FMMCH. The event witnessed participation from FMCI’s Management Committee and representatives from all three colleges.
With his assumption of duties, Rev. Dr Michael Santhumayor is expected to infuse FMCI with visionary leadership rooted in Catholic values, academic advancement, and inclusive service.
