Professor Abdus Samad – Founder of Al-Shifa Clinic
Born into a farming family in the rural district of Natore, Bangladesh, Professor Abdus Samad has dedicated his life to education, community building, and humanitarian service. After completing his B.A. (Hons) and M.A. degrees in Economics at Rajshahi University, he went on to pursue higher studies in Canada, earning an M.A. from Lakehead University. His academic journey led him to the United States as a Fulbright Scholar, where he completed his Ph.D. at the University of Illinois-Chicago.
While pursuing his Ph.D., Dr. Samad’s passion for community work flourished. He founded the Bangladesh Islamic Community (BIC) in Chicago — a pioneering initiative that established a strong platform for Bangladeshi Muslims, culminating in the development of the Dar-us-Sunnah Center in Evanston, Illinois. His leadership demonstrated that neither small numbers nor financial hardship can prevent meaningful accomplishments when there is vision and determination.
Driven by the same spirit of service, Professor Samad turned his attention back to his roots. In his home village of Kaigram (Upazila: Singra), he founded a free high school, providing education to nearly 400 students who would otherwise have limited opportunities. The remarkable story of this initiative was featured by Utah Valley University, where Professor Samad currently serves as a full professor in the Department of Economics.
Recognizing the urgent need for basic healthcare in his village, Professor Samad transformed his ancestral home into Al-Shifa Clinic, a community health center providing critical medical services to underserved families. What began as a personal mission has now evolved into a government-supported facility, continuing to serve those most in need. Today, Professor Samad’s vision is to expand and enhance Al-Sifa Clinic — bringing hope, health, and dignity to rural Bangladesh. Your support can help him continue this incredible journey of giving back, one life at a time.