Late Prof. R.V. Dhanapalan, B.A., M.L., was a visionary leader whose life was dedicated to the transformative power of education. Born with a passion for learning and a commitment to societal betterment, he pursued an illustrious academic journey. Prof. Dhanapalan graduated in Economics from Government Arts College, Salem, and earned his M.A. in Economics from Presidency College, Chennai. He later pursued his legal education at Madras Law College and completed his master’s in law from the University of Madras.

Beginning his career as an apprentice to Prof. N.A. Subramanian, he gained invaluable experience working under Justice S. Mohan at the Madras High Court for a decade. His passion for education soon led him to academia, where he served as a faculty member and later as Senior Professor of Constitutional Law at Madras Law College. His deep expertise and dedication extended beyond teaching, as he contributed significantly to shaping education policy through his roles in the Academic Council, Board of Studies, Syndicate, Senate, and Planning Commissions at various universities.

Prof. Dhanapalan's contributions to higher education in India have been monumental. He was instrumental in establishing India’s first law university, Dr. Ambedkar Law University, as a special officer. He also served as an Advisor to the Governor of Tamil Nadu on University Education and as Vice-President of the Indian Institute of Public Administration, New Delhi, a premier national institution for excellence in public administration.

Prof. Dhanapalan’s greatest legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to providing quality education to women and students in rural areas. Founding Prof. Dhanapalan College was a manifestation of his lifelong vision to empower underserved communities through education.

Guided by his cherished conviction, the institution upholds his vision of holistic and inclusive education, striving to transform lives and create opportunities for generations to come.