A generous gift from Dr Anne Spalding has secured the future of the Oxford Chair of Eastern Religions and Ethics. This essential post is one of the world's pre-eminent positions in the study of Asian religions, and its permanent endowment will help to ensure that teaching and research in this important field continue to flourish at Oxford.
The Spalding Professorship of Eastern Religions and Ethics was established in 1936 and endowed in 1949, thanks to generous philanthropic support from H.N. and Nellie Spalding. Their granddaughter, Dr Anne Spalding, has now renewed this endowment, thereby continuing the Spalding family legacy of giving to support Oxford and its activities.
A distinguished scholar
Based within the University's Faculty of Oriental Studies, the Spalding Chair of Eastern Religions and Ethics is currently held by Professor Diwakar Acharya. Professor Acharya is a scholar of the highest international calibre, with an outstanding record of research and publication. He specialises in the Indian, especially Hindu, religious and philosophical traditions and their comparison with other traditions.
An inspiring teacher, Professor Acharya attracts talented students from around the world, and has transformed and enlivened the study of these subjects at Oxford. With this support, he will be free to provide research leadership in the faculty, as well as continuing to teach students at all levels.
'We very much appreciate the Spalding family's continued support for the study of Asian cultures and religions at Oxford, especially the recent generous gift of Dr Anne Spalding,' says Professor Acharya. 'As traditional wisdom tells us: the best of all gifts is the gift of education, and the Spalding family has offered such a wonderful gift not only to the current but also future generations. I believe, given its high reputation and uncompromising support for academic freedom, there is no place better than Oxford for such a benefaction.'
Since it was first established, the Spalding Chair has been held by a number of distinguished scholars, notably Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888-1975) – a renowned teacher, academic philosopher, and the second President of India. Professor Radhakrishnan was the first Indian ever to hold a chair at Oxford. Because of his passionate belief in the importance of high-quality education, his birthday, 5 September, is celebrated as 'Teachers' Day' in India.
A long history of support
The Spalding family have a long history of providing philanthropic support to Oxford. Dr Spalding represents the third generation of her family whose generosity has benefited the University. Her father, Dr John Spalding, is an important benefactor to Oxford as well.
Dr Spalding says: 'My grandfather clearly saw the need for understanding religious traditions better, and for informed conversation exploring similarities and differences in religious perspectives. This need is even more urgent today. So, I am pleased to be able to support the Spalding Chair as part of this process, contributing greater understanding and knowledgeable conversation on Eastern Religions and Ethics.'
To honour H.N. Spalding, the Faculty Room of the Oriental Institute was recently renamed the Spalding Room.