St. Stephen’s College has appointed Professor Susan Elias as its 14th principal and first woman to lead the historic college in its 145-year history. The appointment was announced May 12 by the Rt. Rev. Dr. Paul Swarup, Bishop in Delhi in the Church of North India and chairman of the college’s Supreme Council. Professor Elias will assume office June 1, 2026, succeeding John Varghese, whose term concluded in February.
“The Supreme Council of the College is pleased to announce that Prof Susan Elias will take charge as the XIV Principal of the College and as its first lady Principal with effect from the 1st of June 2026,” the official notification stated.
The appointment represents a significant milestone for the college, which was founded February 1, 1881, by the Cambridge Mission to Delhi in conjunction with the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel. Named after Saint Stephen, the patron saint of Delhi, the institution operated as an all-male college from 1950 until 1975, when it became fully co-educational. St. Stephen’s College, affiliated with Delhi University, remains a religious foundation of the Church of North India, and is considered India’s premier private university.
Professor Elias brings extensive academic credentials to the position. A computer scientist specializing in artificial intelligence and deep technology research, she most recently served as Pro Vice Chancellor for Research at Chandigarh University in Uttar Pradesh from January to May 2026. Her career spans more than 34 years in academia, research, and leadership, including a previous role as Director of Research at Hindustan University.]
In interviews following the announcement, Professor Elias outlined an ambitious vision that seeks to bridge liberal arts education with cutting-edge technology. “We need to be AI-ready and quantum-aware,” she told the media, indicating plans to introduce an MSc in Quantum Computing, develop short AI courses for professionals including lawyers and journalists, and strengthen collaboration with the college’s distinguished alumni network.
The new principal emphasized her commitment to preserving the institution’s legacy while preparing it for contemporary challenges. “I will protect the legacy and make the institute AI-ready,” she stated, acknowledging the college’s reputation as one of India’s leading educational institutions.
The principal’s position had been officially vacant since March 1, following administrative discussions regarding the conclusion of the previous principal’s term.
Bishop Swarup, who has served as the tenth Bishop of the Diocese of Delhi since his consecration in October 2022, signed the official appointment notification. The Diocese of Delhi, part of the Church of North India, maintains its historic Anglican connection and continues to oversee the college’s spiritual mission and governance.