Dr. Sumaya is a seasoned academic leader with 37+ years of experience in higher education, blending exemplary scholarly achievements with visionary administrative leadership and a passion for social impact. She has served as Principal of Thassim Beevi Abdul Kader (TBAK) College for Women (Autonomous, Tamil Nadu) since 1994, transforming it from a fledgling institution into a thriving autonomous college with 2000+ women students annually. An expert in Food Science and Nutrition, she has authored 42 research publications in reputed journals and secured ₹5 Crore in funded projects (UGC, DBT, etc.), including four major UGC research projects and innovation grants, leading to 2 patents in food technology. Equally committed to community development, Dr. Sumaya spearheads numerous women empowerment initiatives as head of a prominent NGO, uplifting over 20,000 underprivileged families through education, self-help groups, and disaster relief efforts. Her contributions have earned 27 awards at state and national levels – notably the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister's 'Best Woman Social Worker' Award (2012) and the NCMEI's National Award of Excellence in Higher Education (2011) – honouring her impact in social service and minority education. She has also represented India internationally, delivering invited talks and forging academic collaborations in Malaysia, Singapore, Kuwait, Myanmar, USA, Thailand, UAE, Saudi Arabia, among others.