(The following profile of Father Felix Raj provides a suitable introduction for him at various events, conferences, and formal gatherings).

Rev. Dr. John Felix Raj, S.J. (born 1954) is a distinguished Jesuit priest of the Calcutta Province, renowned for his multifaceted contributions to education, administration, and philanthropy. As the founder Vice-Chancellor of St. Xavier's University, Kolkata, and former Rector and Principal of St. Xavier's College, Kolkata, he has left an indelible mark on the academic landscape.

Fr. Felix Raj's academic expertise spans Development Economics, Liberalization, Privatization, and Globalization, with a strong focus on Spirituality, Leadership Skills, and Training. His commitment to education extends beyond the classroom, with initiatives like "College to Village and Village to College" and "One Rupee Revolution," which have pioneered innovative approaches to learning.

A dedicated philanthropist, Fr. Raj has been associated with numerous NGOs and has engaged in various charitable activities. His leadership has been instrumental in the expansion of St. Xavier's College, Kolkata, including the establishment of the Raghabpur rural campus and the construction of twin hostels in 2014 respectively.

During his tenure as Principal, he introduced new undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. courses, cementing the college's reputation for academic excellence. His vision and leadership were crucial in shaping the values and framework of St. Xavier's University, Kolkata, which has become a model for alumni participation.

Fr. Raj's achievements have been recognized with seventeen prestigious awards, including the Banga Bibhushan and SikshaRatna awards from the Government of West Bengal. He has authored and co-authored twelve books and presented papers at numerous national and international conferences.

In August 2012, former West Bengal Governor M.K. Narayanan paid tribute to Fr. Raj's remarkable qualities, highlighting his distinctive blend of administrative skill, spiritual devotion, and intellectual depth. Narayanan hailed him as a “true icon in education.”

In January 2024, on the occasion of his golden jubilee as a Jesuit, Mamata Banerjee, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of West Bengal congratulated him, saying: “This milestone is a testament to your dedication and unwavering commitment throughout your illustrious career. Your long and inspiring leadership at St. Xavier’s has been marked by zeal and passion, earning the institutions a pride of place in the whole of India.”

June 2025