AAPI’s 43rd Annual Convention & Scientific Assembly in Cincinnati: A Historic Confluence of Medical Excellence, Cultural Celebration, and Leadership Transition

Cincinnati, OH: 
The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) concluded its 43rd Annual Convention and Scientific Assembly on July 27th, 2025, at the Cincinnati Marriott at River Center and Northern Kentucky Convention Center, delivering a transformative blend of medical innovation, cultural celebration, and a historic leadership transition. Over 1,000 delegates, including physicians, medical students, residents, and fellows, gathered in Cincinnati for an enriching experience that underscored AAPI’s pivotal role as the nation’s largest ethnic medical association, representing over 120,000 Indian American physicians and touching one in every seven patients in the U.S. The convention, held from July 24th to 27th, 2025, set a new benchmark for uniting medical excellence with cultural heritage, culminating in Dr. Amit Chakrabarty's ascension to the presidency with a vision to unify and amplify AAPI’s influence in healthcare.

The event’s highlight was the ceremonial passing of the gavel from outgoing President Dr. Satheesh Kathula to Dr. Amit Chakrabarty during the gala on July 26th, 2025, symbolizing a seamless transition and a renewed commitment to AAPI’s mission. Dr. Chakrabarty, an Alabama-based urologist with nearly 25 years of service to AAPI, was joined by his executive committee: Dr. Meher Medavaram (President-Elect), Dr. Krishan Kumar (Vice President), Dr. Seema Arora (Secretary), and Dr. Soumya Neravetla (Treasurer). Dr. Hetal Gor assumed the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees (BOT), while Dr. Gautam Kamthan and Dr. Priyanka Kolli took leadership of the Young Physicians Section (YPS) and Medical Students, Residents, and Fellows Section (MSRF), respectively. “This stage is illuminated by the commitment of every physician who has journeyed with faith, resilience, and passion,” Dr. Chakrabarty declared. “As the second-largest medical association behind the AMA, our membership is our strength, and our voices must resonate in the corridors of power.”

Dr. Chakrabarty’s vision centers on unifying AAPI by transcending regional, linguistic, and educational divides. He pledged to enhance transparency through regular town hall meetings, ensuring direct accessibility to members and fostering a cohesive organization. His goals include expanding membership, engaging younger physicians, and strengthening AAPI’s influence in healthcare policy. “We have the potential to make a significant impact on the healthcare landscape,” he asserted. “AAPI must bring critical healthcare issues to the forefront, raising our united voice before U.S. lawmakers.” Dr. Kathula, in his farewell address, highlighted a year of impactful initiatives, including the Global Health Summit in New Delhi and Hyderabad, research contests, charitable programs, and efforts like Bone Marrow and Share a Blanket. He presented Presidential Awards to Dr. Bhushan Pandya, Dr. Sunil Kaza, Dr. Vemuri Murthy, and Dr. Dwarkanda Reddy for their contributions. Dr. Satheesh Kathula was also honored for his unifying leadership.

The convention offered over 10 hours of Continuing Medical Education (CME) sessions, featuring world-renowned speakers who explored transformative trends in healthcare. On July 25th, Dr. Suresh Reddy delivered a CME session, followed by Dr. Vemuri S. Murthy’s presentation on global challenges in improving outcomes for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, a Padma Vibhushan awardee, explored cutting-edge advances in gastrointestinal interventions, emphasizing AI’s transformative potential in healthcare delivery while addressing ethical considerations. On July 26th, CME sessions by Dr. Namratha Kandula, Dr. Indranil Bas Ray, Dr. Venkata Raju, Dr. Nalini Guda, and Dr. Amit Sood provided insights into diverse medical advancements. The Medical Licensing Forum, led by Dr. Amol Soin, featured luminaries like Dr. George Abraham (Chair, Federation of State Medical Boards), Dr. Humayun Chaudhry (President, FSMB), and Dr. Lyuba Konopasek (Vice President, Netwealth / ECFMG), offering critical guidance on professional standards and practice pathways.

CEO forum was moderated by Dr Hetal Gor, chairwoman BOT, panelist included Dr. Raj Pandya is renowned orthopedic, sports medicine specialist, entrepreneur, restaurateur and Hollywood Movie producer. As well as Mr Sandeep Dronawat PHD , a chemical engineer, serial entrepreneur, IT business owner, hotelier , healthcare company CEO, restaurateur. Panel discussed their CEO leadership style , conflict resolution strategies, inspiration, time management etc. . They took questions from the audience and guided the young CEO and entrepreneur on how to set up & succeed. A robust research symposium showcased cutting-edge medical research, with poster presentations and cash awards recognizing outstanding contributions from medical students, residents, and fellows. Daily morning programs on July 25 and 26 included yoga, meditation, and sessions on sleep techniques and anxiety management, promoting physician well-being and holistic professional development. 

The Women’s Forum on July 25th, chaired by Dr. Divya K.Navani, empowered female physicians, fostering dialogue on leadership and resilience while facing the challenges posed by Imposter Syndrome. This was a very impactful and timely discussion on Imposter Syndrome in Women Physicians with enthusiastic audience participation. Dr. Divya K. Navani stressed that Imposter Syndrome needs to be recognized as a major contributor to Physician Burnout. The JAAPI Forum and YPS/MSRF Singles Mixer provided vibrant networking opportunities for younger members, while alumni meetings and a social hour strengthened professional connections.

The convention celebrated excellence through numerous awards. At the BOT luncheon on July 26, Dr. Navin Nanda, Dr. P K Vedantham, Dr. Krishan Kumar, Dr. Jagdish Gupta, Dr. Ravi Parikh, and Dr. Avi Singh Gandhi received AAPI’s prestigious Service Awards for their contributions to medicine and community service. Keynote addresses by Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, President of the American Medical Association, and Dr. Mario Capecchi, a Nobel laureate in Medicine/Physiology offered profound insights. Dr. Mukkamala urged collaboration, stating, “AAPI and AMA are like my left hand and my right hand, and they must work together for exponential growth.”  Lieutenant Governor Kentucky Jacqueline Coleman praised AAPI members as “healthcare heroes,” while US Congressman Jonathan Jackson and Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval lauded their trailblazing impact. Pureval, born to Himalayan refugees, credited AAPI’s pioneers for enabling future generations to pursue their dreams.

The event was a vibrant celebration of Indian heritage, commencing on July 24 with a ribbon cutting ceremony featuring the lighting of a traditional lamp by Lieutenant Governor Coleman, Dr. Mukkamala, Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, and AAPI leadership, accompanied by Dr. Aarti Pandya’s rendition of the U.S. and Indian national anthems. That evening, delegates enjoyed a cruise on the River Queen Boat along the Ohio River, featuring live music, dance, and stunning views of Cincinnati’s skyline, followed by a midnight Biryani Nite with Bollywood music. The gala on July 26 showcased performances by Monali Thakur, a fashion show, stand-up comedy by Dr. Thirumala Raju, and the AAPI Got Talent event, highlighting the community’s artistic talents. On July 25th, the Dr. Sampath Shivangi Legacy Award and discussions on stem cell and organ donation added depth to the program. The final day, July 26th, featured executive and governing body meetings, alongside exhibit booths, ensuring continued engagement.

Dr. Hetal Gor, the new BOT Chair, shared her journey and vision for collaborating with Dr. Chakrabarty’s team to advance AAPI’s mission. Dr. Meher Medavaram emphasized the convention’s role as a platform for innovation and connection, while Dr. Soumya Neravetla highlighted its significance in shaping global healthcare. Dr. Sunil Kaza, outgoing BOT Chair, reflected on overcoming unprecedented challenges, stating, “Together, we fulfilled our promises despite a storm unlike AAPI had ever seen.” The organizing committee, led by Ms. Vijaya Kodali was lauded for its dedication to delivering a seamless experience.

The convention’s three-day agenda was meticulously crafted to balance academic rigor, professional networking, and cultural celebration. On July 24th, registration opened at 11:00 AM, followed by executives, trustee, and governing body meetings, culminating in the Ohio River cruise. July 25 featured exhibits, product theaters by Rigel and Ze bound, a welcome dance, and speeches by Lieutenant Governor Coleman and Mayor Pureval. July 26th included physician breakfasts, additional product theaters, and the gala with the leadership transition. The final day focused on strategic meetings and exhibits, ensuring a comprehensive experience.

Dr. Chakrabarty concluded by inviting members to the 44th Annual AAPI Convention in Tampa, Florida, from July 2–5, 2026. “AAPI’s mission is clear, our programs will thrive, and our impact is tremendous in benefiting society,” he said. “Join me in this noble journey to shape the national healthcare delivery system with a focus on health maintenance.” The 43rd Convention set new standards, reinforcing AAPI’s role as a vital force in American healthcare through medical excellence, cultural celebration, and a unified vision for the future.

Convention was chaired and organized by Dr. Satheesh Kathula, outgoing president of AAPI along with his convention team. Dr. Kathula expressed gratitude to all the attendees, dignitaries, sponsors and his EC, BOT and convention team for their support. He thanked all the members for their support during the last 15 years of his remarkable journey with AAPI. His tireless leadership, accounting for 75% of the event’s resounding success, ensured flawless synchronization across three days, from groundbreaking CME sessions to vibrant cultural celebrations. With meticulous attention to hospitality and arrangements, Dr. Kathula’s conservative commitment left an indelible mark, a legacy of excellence that AAPI will forever cherish.

Dr. Suresh K. Gupta, Regional Director of AAPI’s South Atlantic Region, reflected on his 40-year journey with the organization, a testament to his enduring commitment since joining as a second-year resident in 1985. “From Washington, DC’s vibrant AAPI Conventions to impactful Global Health Summits in India, my path with AAPI has been a tapestry of professional growth and personal fulfillment,” he shared. With pride, he recounted his leadership as Host Regional Director in 2000 and 2009, and his advocacy at Legislative Sessions, weaving a legacy of service that continues to inspire AAPI’s mission.

Dr Hetal Gor is a board certified obgyn in NY/NJ , gynecological & surgical aesthetics specialist, women’s advocate, political activist , awarded entrepreneur gave her vision as Chairwoman of Board of Trustees. Her plan is to implement Clarity, Transparency, Honesty, to lead with Integrity Ethics Financial stability that our organization needs. Dr. Sunitha Polepalle - a pain physician from Newburgh NY has been elected as a member of the Board of Trustees. She is a second-generation physician and is encouraging other American medical graduates to join. Dr. Sowmya Neravetla is a cardiothoracic surgeon from Ohio. She has been elected as a Treasurer. She is a second-generation physician. It's the first time in AAPI history that a second is physician has been elected as AAPI Treasurer.

Editorial Notes by Suresh Bodiwala, Chairman and Founder, Asian Media USA, Chicago, “The 43rd AAPI Convention in Cincinnati was a landmark event, seamlessly blending cutting-edge medical education, vibrant cultural celebration, and visionary leadership. It showcased the remarkable contributions of Indian American physicians and set a powerful precedent for AAPI’s future. We eagerly anticipate the continued impact at the 2026 convention in Tampa”.