A Dalit himself, from the Villupuram District, Fr. Deva Sagaya Raj joined the seminary at age twelve. There he began his lifelong love of learning. Fr. Raj’s educational accomplishments include bachelor’s degrees in philosophy and theology, a law degree, and master’s degree in sociology. He is a strong advocate of the importance of quality education for the Dalit community, and has been instrumental in the development of Community Care Trust’s programs.