Udupi/Shirva, 13 February 2015:Louis Mendonca (89), former principal of St Mary’s Pre-University College, Shirva, passed away on Thursday, 12 February 2015.
Born on 19 May 1926 in Shirva, late Louis Mendonca, after his SSLC education continued college education in St. Aloysius College, Mangalore. He became the headmaster of St, Mary’s High School in 1949 and served the institution in this capacity for 32 years. It was under his leadership and tireless work that the school gradually progressed into a college. Louis Mendonca had the privilege of becoming its principal from where he retired.
Late Louis Mendonca was a popular teacher, headmaster and principal of St. Mary’s Educational Institutions. He promoted sports and other cultural activities among the students and encouraged and inspired them to win many prizes and trophies. He was instrumental in shaping the future of many students by his excellent teaching and fine example.
Realizing his social responsibility, late Louis Mendonca was responsible in the development of the Shirva township. After retirement he started the higher primary school in Belur which is now a high school and bagged the best school award. He served as the president of Medical Relief Association of Shirva, president- Lions Club, Udupi, Lions Zonal president and president of Headmasters Association of South Kanara. He established 500 self-help groups for women empowerment.
Among the awards he won were the Papal Award Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, Sandesha state award 2010 and the best teacher award from the Karnataka government.
In the year 2012, USWAS Shirva honoured him with special USWAS Decennial Award.