Chairman's Message
Dr. Ramanathan Vairavan — Chairman & Secretary, Alagappa Group
Dr. Ramanathan Vairavan
Chairman & Secretary
As the grandson of Padma Bhushan Dr. R.M. Alagappa Chettiar, I carry both the privilege and the responsibility of continuing a legacy built on the conviction that education transforms lives. For over 40 years, I have worked at the intersection of healthcare and education, and I believe deeply that the world needs more compassionate, skilled healthcare professionals — especially nurses.
At Alagappa College of Nursing, our commitment is to produce nurses who combine clinical excellence with genuine compassion. We invest in modern facilities, experienced faculty, and a curriculum that prepares our students for the realities of contemporary healthcare. Our graduates do not simply fill positions — they lead, they care, and they make a difference in the communities they serve.
Nursing is among the noblest of professions. I invite students who share this belief to join us in Karaikudi, where the Alagappa tradition of service and scholarship continues to thrive.
“Entrepreneurs need the heart to give back to society.”
— Dr. Ramanathan Vairavan
Background & Credentials
Dr. Ramanathan Vairavan brings a distinguished academic and professional background to the leadership of the Alagappa Group:
- ✓ BS in Chemical Engineering — AC College of Technology (AC Tech), Chennai
- ✓ MS in Biomedical Engineering — Washington University, St. Louis
- ✓ MBA — Fairleigh Dickinson University
- ✓ Honorary Doctorate — Alagappa University, 2018
- ✓ Founder, Alagappa Performing Arts Academy (2005)
- ✓ Founder, Alagappa Institute of Technology (1999)
- ✓ President, Tamil Isai Sangam
- ✓ Syndicate Member, Alagappa University
- ✓ Leads DiaCarta, a molecular diagnostics company
Vision for Healthcare Education
With over 40 years of experience in healthcare and education, Dr. Vairavan has expanded the Alagappa Group's reach significantly. Today, the group manages over 8,000 students across primary, secondary, and collegiate education.
His plans for the future include establishing a College of Medical Sciences and a centre for Ayurvedic Medicine in Karaikudi, further strengthening the region's position as a hub for healthcare education and research. These initiatives build on the same foundation that Dr. Alagappa Chettiar laid decades ago — the belief that quality education, especially in healthcare, is the most powerful force for social progress.
Mrs. Devi Alamelu Vairavan
Management
Mrs. Devi Alamelu Vairavan plays a vital role in the management of the Alagappa Group, with a special focus on student welfare and the development of healthcare education programmes. She is committed to empowering students, particularly women, through quality education, supportive campus environments, and mentorship.
Her involvement ensures that the nurturing, student-centred ethos of the Alagappa institutions remains at the heart of every programme and initiative.
Join the Alagappa Nursing Family
Admissions open for B.Sc Nursing, B.Sc Nursing programs.