President's Message
Dear Fellow AMICOSians in North America,
The Association of Mar Ivanios College Old Students in North America (AMICOSNA) has been an integral part of our alumni community since 2008. Over the years, local chapters have been established in various cities across North America, including New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, New Jersey, Toronto (Canada), Dallas, and Houston.
On October 11, 2008, a group of kindred spirits and Mar Ivanios alumni gathered at India House Restaurant in Oakbrook, Illinois, to officially establish the AMICOSNA Chicago Chapter. The founding meeting was inaugurated by our esteemed patron, the Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas, an Economics professor emeritus of Mar Ivanios College, alongside three former professors of the English Department—Rev. Dr. P.T. Thomas, Rev. Dr. Ninan Tharakan, and Mrs. Carmel Thomas.
Since its inception, I have had the privilege of leading the Chicago Chapter as its President. However, in October 2023, all local chapters unanimously decided to unite under a single organization—AMICOS North America (AMICOSNA)—and I was honored to be elected as its first President. This role has been profoundly enriching, thanks to the unwavering support of our Board of Directors, whose dedication and expertise have been invaluable in shaping our organization’s future.
About AMICOS North America
AMICOS North America (AMICOSNA) is an alumni network of Mar Ivanios College, Trivandrum, Kerala, India. Our prestigious institution, founded in 1949 by Most Rev. Geevarghese Mar Ivanios, the inaugural Archbishop of Trivandrum, has nurtured generations of scholars and leaders.
In 2024, we proudly hosted the first-ever AMICOS North America Convention, coinciding with our college’s 75th Anniversary. The convention took place from October 11-13 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Dallas, TX, with approximately 150 alumni from across the globe in attendance. This milestone event celebrated our heritage, unity, and shared commitment to the future of our alma mater.
As we progress, our association remains dedicated to strengthening the bonds among alumni, preserving our cherished traditions, and innovating new ways to support our community and alma mater.
A New Digital Era for AMICOSNA
I am thrilled to introduce the newly launched website of AMICOS North America. As the pioneer of this initiative, I consider it an honor to contribute to a centralized platform that will enhance our ability to communicate, collaborate, and serve. This website will offer a comprehensive overview of our initiatives and responsibilities as a non-profit organization committed to societal welfare.
Sincerely,
Sabu Thomas, BSEE, MSCE, MBA
President
AMICOS North America (AMICOSNA)
The Road Ahead: Our Shared Responsibility
As President of AMICOS North America, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve this dynamic community. My vision is to elevate our alumni network to new heights, providing unwavering support and service to both our members and the society in which we thrive.
Reflecting on our 17-year journey, it is crucial that we also look ahead to how we can contribute to future generations. Many of our dedicated alumni are already engaged in volunteering their time, skills, and resources to support various initiatives. Every contribution, big or small, plays a significant role in sustaining and enhancing the legacy of our alma mater.
As alumni, we are an integral part of this institution’s fabric. Your support and active participation remain vital as we embark on this new chapter in our college’s history.
I look forward to collaborating with each of you, working together toward our shared goal of making a lasting impact—not just within our alumni community, but also in the broader society we serve.
The Two Most Influential People In My Life
This photo features Most Rev. Benedict Mar Gregorios, OIC, the inaugural Principal of Mar Ivanios College and its esteemed Patron for forty years. He is pictured here with one of his students, Mr. Varghese Thomas (my father), who studied at the college from 1950 to 1952.
(Most Rev. Benedict Mar Gregorios also happens to be my uncle.)
My Inspiration
My Spiritual Guru
My Mentor
From the moment I had the privilege of meeting Bishop Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas during his tenure as our bishop in the USA, he has been a profound blessing to both my family and me. In my role as President of the AMICOS Chicago Chapter, I have had numerous opportunities to collaborate closely with Bishop Mar Thomas, and his guidance has been nothing short of transformative.
As the Patron of the Association of Mar Ivanios College Old Students (AMICOS) in North America, his influence has been extraordinary. His innate ability to inspire and uplift those around him is truly commendable. Bishop Mar Thomas’ unwavering belief in people, coupled with his keen insight in positioning individuals where they can excel, is both visionary and praiseworthy.
A beacon of excellence and an inspirational leader, Bishop Mar Thomas leads with compassion, generosity, and profound wisdom. His exceptional mentorship, communication skills, and organizational expertise make him a guiding force for all who work with him. His dedication to serving as a channel of divine guidance is truly remarkable.
It would be an honor and privilege to work under his leadership at any time, as his presence and direction are invaluable to all who have the opportunity to collaborate with him.
A Glimpse into Bishop Mar Thomas’ Journey with Mar Ivanios College
- Pre-degree student (1967–1970)
- Faculty Member & Professor, Economics Department (1986–1996)
His dedication to education and leadership continues to inspire generations, and his impact on our alumni community and beyond is immeasurable.