Suri and Mala Raman
/SOURCE OF WEALTH: Microsoft
FUNDING AREAS: Education & Youth, Human Services, Arts & Culture, Environment, Education
OVERVIEW: Suri and Mala Raman move their philanthropy through the Raman Family Foundation, which gave away around $103,000. Grantmaking touches several causes including Indian causes, human services, and education.
BACKGROUND: Suri Raman graduated from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras in 1988. He joined Microsoft Corporation in 1988, and held titles such as software design engineer, software architect, and distinguished engineer. Raman was also a VP and distinguished engineer at Amazon. He’s currently a technical fellow at Microsoft.
ISSUES:
INDIAN & GLOBAL CAUSES: The Ramans support API Chaya, including its work in women’s welfare. Other grantees have included India Association of Western Washington (IAWW); Ophthalmic Mission Trust and work towards elderly eye-care in India; and Asha for Education.
HUMAN SERVICES: Mala is involved with United Way of King County, which the family steadily supports. Other grantees have included Crisis Connections; FareStart, which deals with homeless job training; Mercer Island Youth and Family Services Foundation; and The Sophia Way, which supports homeless women.
ARTS & CULTURE: Grantees have included Youth Theatre Northwest, Seattle Art Museum, NPR Foundation, and KCTS.
OTHER: The Ramans support Seattle University, Mercer Island School Foundation, Summer Search, Washington Trails Association, and Washington National Park Fund.
LOOKING FORWARD: Perhaps more funds will go towards the couple’s established interest areas in the coming years. Mala works in the health and fitness space, which may come into play in the family’s giving down the line.
CONTACT:
Raman Family Foundation
8212 Avalon Dr.
Mercer Island, WA 98040
