In 2015, our journey began with a simple yet powerful mission: to support bright, driven students in achieving their educational dreams. We started by awarding scholarships to students pursuing engineering degrees, and extended our commitment by supporting Nagarajan Academy—a school that now provides free, high-quality education to over 250 students in need. As our vision grew, so did our impact. Today, we have expanded our support model to include interest-free educational loans through our Pay It Forward program for students pursuing advanced and professional degrees, ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of talent, ambition, and the desire to give back. This evolution reflects our belief in creating sustainable opportunities that multiply with every student we empower.
Inspired by the vision and compassion of the Founder’s grandmother, Mrs. Varalakshmi — who established the Oldage Welfare Centre in the 1980s and later founded the Om Shanti Nagarajan Academy in the 1990s—and guided by the legacy of family members who have been lifelong academicians and committed philanthropists, we launched this education nonprofit with a singular mission: to make education accessible to all. Rooted in generations of service and a deep belief in the transformative power of learning, our organization is a tribute to those who came before us and a promise to those who come next. Through scholarships, mentorship, and community engagement, we aim to bridge opportunity gaps and ensure that every student, regardless of background, has a fair chance to thrive.
Madhu Garlanka is a seasoned technology and business leader with over two decades of experience driving innovation and transformation in technology services. As the Founder of the Next Step Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making education more accessible for underprivileged students, her work is deeply influenced by a family legacy of service and continues a tradition of philanthropy and academic excellence.
Dr. Todd Demmy, a distinguished thoracic oncologist at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, has been a steadfast supporter of the Next Step Foundation and its mission to expand access to education for underserved students. With a career rooted in both clinical excellence and compassionate care, Dr. Demmy brings a unique perspective to the foundation’s work—believing deeply in the power of education to transform lives, just as access to care transforms patient outcomes. His continued advocacy, mentorship, and generous contributions have played a pivotal role in advancing the foundation’s scholarship and outreach initiatives, reinforcing a shared commitment to equity, opportunity, and long-term impact.
Dr. Jayashree Parekh is a distinguished physician leader with a career spanning both academic medicine and healthcare strategy. She has held impactful roles at VCU Health and the University of Virginia (UVA), where she has contributed to advancing clinical quality and has been a strong advocate for patient-centered care and interdisciplinary collaboration, helping shape innovative approaches to health equity and population health. Beyond her work in medicine, she is a passionate supporter of the Next Step Foundation, where she lends her leadership and insight to further the foundation’s mission of expanding educational access for underserved students.
Padma Sravani is a dynamic program leader with a strong background in education, data-driven project management, and technology integration. She has successfully led large-scale initiatives across Telangana, including the deployment of child life cycle management systems and chatbot-based learning solutions that have impacted over 40,000 students. With a Master’s in Electronics and hands-on experience in project management technologies, she combines analytical rigor with a deep passion for social impact. As Program Coordinator of the Next Step Foundation, Sravani plays a pivotal role in driving the foundation’s mission to make education accessible for underserved students. Her ability to bridge technology and grassroots engagement brings energy, innovation, and operational excellence to every project she leads.
Our Advisory Circle brings together a dynamic group of passionate individuals who offer valuable insights, expertise, and support to help guide our organization’s direction. Unlike a traditional board, the Circle operates with flexibility and fosters open, collaborative discussions that reflect the diverse voices within our community. Comprised of volunteers, community leaders, and experts, the Advisory Circle ensures we remain responsive, innovative, and true to our mission—empowering us to make a meaningful difference together.
Teena Lavu is an accomplished technology executive and product leader with a strong track record of driving digital transformation across healthcare and public sector domains. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a passionate advocate for diversity in tech and supports mission-driven organizations like the Next Step Foundation, where she contributes to efforts aimed at making education more accessible and inclusive for all.
Geeth Chettiar is a successful executive with a distinguished career in engineering leadership with a deep passion for education and equity. For over five years, Geeth has been a dedicated supporter of the Foundation’s mission, championing its efforts to provide access and opportunity to underserved students. Her commitment to educational empowerment and her belief in leveling the playing field have made her an invaluable advocate for the Foundation’s work. Geeth’s strategic insight, combined with her heart for service, continues to guide and strengthen Next Step Foundation’s impact in communities.
Keerti Yendamuri is a recent college graduate and aspiring physician from the University at Buffalo with a major in Biological Sciences and a minor in Public Health. She is dedicated to advancing healthcare in underserved populations through education and service. Keerti has spent time working at the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology in Hyderabad, India to better understand the Indian healthcare system and public health policy affecting underprivileged communities. Growing up, she has helped raise donations for the Next Step Foundation, volunteered at Vive Shelters for refugees seeking healthcare, and advocated for developing inclusive healthcare systems and community advancement. Driven by a deep commitment to service, Keerti hopes to bridge the gaps in access, find community-centered solutions, and grow into a future healthcare leader committed to equity and impact. She hopes to contribute to making education more accessible by fostering environments where students are supported, heard and empowered.
