Dr. Satheesh Kathula, president of the American Association of Physicians of Indian origin (AAPI), was awarded the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award in a ceremony held at the Hart Senate Building in Washington, DC.
The award was presented by US Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia in recognition of Dr. Kathula’s community service, contributions to healthcare, and dedication to his patients and the broader society.
Senator Manchin, while presenting the award, praised Dr. Kathula for his achievements, saying, “I just want to thank and congratulate Dr. Kathula for all he has done,” emphasizing his impact in the healthcare sector and his deep commitment to serving the community.
Elisha Pulivarti, president of the US-India SME Council, also lauded Kathula stating, “Dr. Kathula has been a tremendous asset to the Indian American community, and he highly deserves this honor.”
Dr. Kathula, who has been a resident of Ohio for 29 years, expressed his gratitude upon receiving the award. “It’s an honor and a privilege to receive this award from Senator Joe Manchin. This award truly inspires not only me but the people, who are serving the community and their society at large,” he said.
Throughout his career, Dr. Kathula has demonstrated a strong commitment to healthcare and philanthropy. He has been an active supporter of various nonprofit organizations, including the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), and was named LLS's "Man of the Year" in 2018.
Within AAPI, he has held numerous leadership roles, including regional director and member of the board of trustees. He was also elected as national treasurer, secretary, and vice president of AAPI before becoming its president-elect for the 2023-2024 term. He officially assumed the role of president of AAPI in July 2024.
In addition to his national roles, Dr. Kathula has been a leader at the state level, serving as the founding member and president of the Association of Indian Physicians from Ohio, the Miami Valley Association of Physicians of Indian origin, and the Association of Telugu Medical Graduates in the USA (ATMGUSA).
His dedication to community service spans over two decades, both locally and internationally. Among his many accolades, he was awarded the "Hind Rattan" in 2010, in recognition of his contributions to the Indian diaspora.
Dr. Kathula is set to lead the AAPI Global Health Summit in New Delhi from Oct.19-20, 2025. Under his leadership, AAPI has launched several initiatives, including a Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Drive for Indian Americans and the “Million Miles of Gratitude” program, which honors the service of US veterans.
He is also spearheading efforts to implement preventive strategies for heart attacks specifically targeting the Indian American population.
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