In a heartwarming recognition of a life dedicated to education and service, Professor J. Philip, the visionary founder of Xavier Institute of Management and Entrepreneurship (XIME), has been honored by Pope Leo XIV with the distinguished title of "Commander of the Order of Saint Gregory the Great."

This papal honor celebrates not just one man's achievements, but a remarkable journey that has touched thousands of lives across India. From humble beginnings in the backwater village of Pulincunoo, Kerala, born in 1936, Prof. Philip has quietly revolutionized management education in India, always viewing his work as a calling rather than merely a career.

Receiving the honor with characteristic humility, Prof. Philip reflected on how personal tragedy—the loss of his beloved daughter Maria in 1986—redirected his path toward deeper service. What emerged from that profound sorrow was a renewed commitment to education and community upliftment that would benefit countless students and families.

Prof. Philip's contributions to Indian education read like a masterclass in transformative leadership. As the first lay Dean at XLRI Jamshedpur, he co-founded the institution's flagship PGDM programme, helping define modern business education in India. His tenure as Director of IIM Bangalore saw the institution through crucial academic reforms, while his work at The Oberoi Group championed a people-first philosophy that continues to influence organizational culture today.

Perhaps his most enduring legacy is XIME itself, founded in 1991 in memory of his daughter Maria Teresa Philip. What began as one campus in Bangalore has blossomed into three thriving campuses across Bangalore, Kochi, and Chennai. Today, XIME stands as one of India's premier business schools and proudly holds the distinction of being the first Indian B-School to receive EFMD accreditation for five years—a testament to its exceptional quality.

But Prof. Philip's vision extends beyond business education. In 2023, he established XIME International School in Kerala, partnering with the Archdiocese of Changanacherry to provide affordable, values-based education to young children. Now serving over 100 students from kindergarten to Class 4, the school embodies his belief that education should nurture curiosity, creativity, and character in every child.

Archbishop Thomas Tharayil of Changanacherry praised Prof. Philip's distinguished service, noting his efforts to promote integral human values among students. "Through his leadership in the education sector and through many charitable and social initiatives, he has given distinguished service to the Church and society," the Archbishop remarked.

Mr. Anil Philip, President of XIME Society, expressed the institution's delight at this recognition, emphasizing the commitment to carry forward the legacy of excellence in higher education that Prof. Philip exemplifies.

The Order of Saint Gregory the Great, established in 1831, is one of the highest honors the Pope can bestow upon lay people, recognizing exceptional service to the Church and society. For Prof. J. Philip, this honor represents not an endpoint but a continuation of his lifelong mission to serve through education, compassion, and unwavering dedication to human dignity.

His story reminds us that from personal loss can emerge profound purpose, and that one person's commitment to service can transform entire communities for generations to come.