Minneapolis Area Kodai Lunch – May 9, 2026

Minneapolis Area Kodai Lunch – May 9, 2026

The Minneapolis area Kodai lunch reunion was held in May 2026, with 29 Kodai alumni and friends in attendence.  This reunion happens twice a year, in May and October, with the great organization team headed by Joe Rittmann and Jody Ramer Chrastek.  This is a great event where alumni in the region can get together for a nice Indian lunch, and catch-up with other Kodai friends in the area.

We were twenty-nine (29) KIS alum and friends from across MN and from California and Washington State at Park Ave United Methodist Church, 3400 Park Ave, Minneapolis on Sat, May 9, 2026. We honor Rev. Mark Garrison from class of 1958 our eldest and Lisa Lindell, class of 81, our youngest. 

With Joe’s help, this event has brought in donations for KFI in our support for KIS.  Much appreciation to all those who donate at this event.  If you would like to know more about this event, please email Joe at: joeritt@gmail.com

 

 

STEM Scholarship for Women, 2025-26

STEM Scholarship for Women, 2025-26

Recipient: Anastasiya Tserakhava

Joining us from Belarus, Anastasiya is known for her intellect, and deep passion for Science. Juggling an intense combination of Higher Levels in Physics, Mathematics and Psychology, Anastasiya has maintained a GPA of 3.82. An active ambassador for KIS, Anastasiya is constantly looking for ways to spread word about her KIS experience to her fellow country mates. In her own words:

“My name is Anastasiya and I’ve been a student at KIS for a year now. At KIS, I’ve undergone a transformative journey where I learned a lot not only in the classroom but through the experience of living in a residential school. I have tried to engage with the vibrant social life here and by participating in events like Dorm Dance, Hiking (I completed 6 hikes in total last year!) and being part of the Psychology club. Thanks to the Award for Women in STEM, I keep pursuing my passion for science here. Collaborating with my classmates, we recently created biodiesel from used cooking oil and conducted an outreach session educating children from Kodaikanal about sustainability. My passion for Math has led me to winning 2 global distinctions at Math competitions organized by the University of Waterloo. This year I was honored to join the school’s NHS and plan to keep pursuing my dreams her. As the college application process is approaching, life has become more intense but I still find time to enjoy with my new friends. I sincerely thank my donors for my KIS experience and for changing my life”