Indian American entrepreneur Hemant P. Goradia is among nine remarkable alumni of the University of Oklahoma honored with Regents’ Alumni Awards for their achievements and contributions.
The awards celebrating OU graduates who have shown exceptional dedication and service to the university were recognized at a Nov. 21 ceremony on the OU Norman campus, according to a university release.
Presented by the OU Board of Regents and OU Alumni Association, the award highlights the profound ways in which OU alumni and supporters are helping shape the university’s vibrant future.
The recipients are awarded a commemorative plaque in recognition of their exceptional contributions, and their names are permanently inscribed on a plaque displayed in the historic Oklahoma Memorial Union.
Goradia, a chemical engineering student of the class of 1981, distinguished himself as a student with numerous achievements, including the Award for Excellence in Chemistry, the release stated highlighting his contributions.
He contributed to biochemical research through a summer research program, studying the enzymic oxidation of ethyl morphine and its effects on dissolved oxygen in human plasma.
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“His academic foundation at OU set the stage for a remarkable professional journey. As a committed alumnus, Hemant has demonstrated outstanding leadership, collaborating with alumni, faculty, students and staff to advance the university’s mission,” it stated.
Goradia joined his brother’s small business, Vinmar, in New York in 1981. He helped grow it into a global enterprise and later succeeded him as CEO for twenty years.
Goradia’s son has succeeded him as CEO, allowing Goradia to serve on a number of non-profit boards and to manage his family office, which invests in various businesses.
Goradia serves on the Board of Visitors at the Gallogly College of Engineering, offering strategic advice to shape programs and initiatives that strengthen engineering education and research.
As a member of the Board of Advisors, he supports efforts in academic excellence, faculty and student recruitment, fundraising and enhancing the college’s national and global stature.
As the leader of Vinmar International Ltd., Goradia transformed the company into a global industry leader through his visionary strategy and innovation.
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His commitment to education is further reflected in his mentorship and engagement with students, providing industry insight and supporting the next generation of engineers.
Together with his wife, Indrani, Goradia established a research fellowship at Texas Children’s Hospital Cancer Center to advance pediatric cancer research.
Their philanthropy also extends to multiple educational and research initiatives at the University of Oklahoma.
Through Pratham USA, Goradia has championed educational access for underprivileged children in India, significantly improving literacy and advancement opportunities for millions.
“From international student to global business leader, Goradia’s journey exemplifies perseverance, vision and generosity,” the release stated.
“His dedication to education, cross-cultural understanding and global collaboration underscores his belief in the transformative power of learning and unity.”