Dr. Thomas Abraham
Founder President & Chairman, Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) Founder President, Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) of NY, NJ & CT. Dr. Thomas Abraham is a renowned community leader and social entrepreneur whose vision and leadership have profoundly influenced the global Indian diaspora for over five decades. As the founder, president, and Chairman of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), he has been a pivotal figure in uniting Indian communities worldwide. Dr. Abraham coined the term “People of Indian Origin (PIO)” in 1989 while organizing the First Global Convention of People of Indian Origin in New York, a milestone event that marked a new era for diaspora engagement.
He played a foundational role in establishing several landmark organizations, including the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), the National Federation of Indian American Associations (NFIA), the Indian American Kerala Cultural and Civic Center, the National Indian American Association for Senior Citizens, and the South Asian Council for Social Services. His advocacy also contributed to the establishment of the Jagdish Bhagwati Chair for Indian Political Economy at Columbia University.
Deeply inspired by Gandhian principles, Dr. Abraham has tirelessly promoted community unity, civic engagement, and policy advocacy. His leadership was instrumental in advancing major initiatives such as dual nationality for Indians abroad, leading to the PIO Card and the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) program. He, with his organization GOPIO), also partnered with the Government of India to launch Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, strengthening the bond between India and its diaspora, and represented GOPIO at international forums, including UN conferences on racism and human rights.
An active policy advocate, Dr. Abraham has testified before U.S. congressional committees on immigration and security issues and organized high-profile events for Indian leaders. His recent
initiatives include welcoming and integrating new Indian students in the U.S. and spearheading the India Collections of Books project in the Tri-stare New York area public libraries.
Dr. Abraham’s exemplary service has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, Bharatvanshi Gaurav Award (2008), and multiple lifetime achievement awards. In 2024, the Dr. Thomas Abraham Library was inaugurated at the Indian American Kerala Cultural and Civic Center, New York, and April 6, 2024 was declared “Dr. Thomas Abraham Day” by New York City by the New York City mayor.
A distinguished expert in advanced materials and nanotechnology, Dr. Abraham is President of Innovative Research and Products, Inc. (iRAP) and has authored over 50 technical publications. He holds graduate degrees from Columbia University and a bachelor’s degree from Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur, and has worked with leading research institutions. Dr.Abraham is married to Dr. Susy Abraham, and they have two children: Dr. Nitya Abraham, a Professor of Urology, and Jay Abraham, an aerospace engineering leader.
Dr. Naresh Parikh
Dr. Naresh Parikh stands as a respected leader in the medical community, renowned for his leadership, clinical excellence, and commitment to service. As the CEO of Georgia Clinic—a multi-specialty organization founded in 1998—he oversees a network of facilities that serve patients across more than a dozen locations in Georgia. His tenure as past president of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) further underscores his prominent role in advancing healthcare for Indian-American physicians and their communities.
Dr. Parikh’s journey began in Nagpur, India, where he graduated from Nagpur Medical College in 1972. Driven by a passion for cardiology, he pursued advanced medical training and eventually relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where he has practiced as a cardiologist for over four decades. His dedication to patient care and innovation has earned him recognition among peers and patients alike.
Throughout his career, Dr. Parikh has played pivotal roles in shaping healthcare delivery and policy. He was instrumental in founding the Independent Physicians Association (IPA) in 2016, uniting 53 providers to enhance collaboration and quality care. As an active participant in DRS Accountable Care Organization (ACO), he has championed value-based approaches to medicine, helping Georgia physicians improve HEDIS scores and Medicare Risk Adjustment (MRA) outcomes in partnership with Cigna HealthSpring. His leadership in these organizations reflects a commitment to elevating standards and outcomes in healthcare.
Beyond professional achievements, Dr. Parikh’s dedication to community service is exemplary. He founded Atlanta’s first Charitable Medical Clinic in 1996, serving as Medical Director for over ten years and providing care to underserved populations. His philanthropic efforts extend to organizing numerous health fairs, facilitating wellness initiatives, and supporting fundraising events for AAPI, including high-profile cultural programs. Dr. Parikh’s generosity with his time, expertise, and resources has benefited communities in both the United States and India, reflecting a deep commitment to humanitarian values.
Dr. Parikh’s influence is further recognized through his advisory roles and contributions to healthcare policy. As a leader within AAPI, he has advocated for improved access, quality, and equity in healthcare, fostering collaboration between medical professionals of Indian origin and broader healthcare networks. His impact is evident in the advancement of medical practice, the empowerment of healthcare providers, and the enhancement of patient outcomes.
In summary, Dr. Naresh Parikh’s legacy is defined by visionary leadership, clinical excellence, and unwavering commitment to service. His ongoing contributions continue to inspire colleagues and communities, marking him as a distinguished physician whose work bridges continents and transforms lives.
Dr. Suresh Reddy
Dr. Suresh Reddy stands as a distinguished figure in the field of neuro-interventional radiology, recognized for his enduring commitment to medicine, exemplary leadership, and unwavering dedication to serving both his profession and the broader community. As the 36 th President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), Dr. Reddy has played a pivotal role in advancing the interests of Indian-American physicians and fostering cross-cultural collaboration in healthcare. His tenure with AAPI was marked by significant initiatives to strengthen physician networks, promote advocacy, and support professional development among members.
In his professional capacity, Dr. Reddy serves as Chief of Radiology at Hines Medical Center and holds the position of Associate Professor of Radiology at Loyola Medical Center in Chicago. Additionally, he is affiliated with the Department of Neurosurgery at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston—one of Harvard Medical School’s prestigious teaching hospitals. Dr. Reddy’s clinical expertise is complemented by a rich academic background: after completing his medical degree in Hyderabad, India, he pursued advanced training at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, where he not only practiced but also contributed as a faculty member for over a decade and served as Chief of Interventional Neuroradiology.
Dr. Reddy’s career is distinguished by more than 35 years of contributions to clinical practice, research, education, and medical leadership. He has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and international conferences, earning recognition for his innovative approaches in neuro-interventional procedures and patient safety. His expertise has helped shape protocols and best practices in radiology and neurosurgery, benefiting both practitioners and patients.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Reddy is deeply committed to community engagement and public service. Since 2021, he has served as an elected Trustee of Oak Brook Village, Illinois, where he resides with his wife, Leela. In this role, he advocates for public health, education, and civic initiatives that enhance the quality of life for local residents. He has organized numerous health camps and workshops in partnership with organizations such as the Chicago Medical Society, focusing on CPR training, obesity prevention, and health education for underserved populations. Dr. Reddy’s dedication to service extends internationally, with various outreach projects in India aimed at improving healthcare access and outcomes in rural communities.
A dynamic and forward-thinking leader, Dr. Reddy continues to inspire colleagues and emerging physicians through his mentorship, advocacy, and commitment to excellence. His recent work includes spearheading digital health initiatives, promoting physician wellness, and supporting global medical collaborations. Dr. Reddy’s legacy is defined by a holistic approach to medicine—one that bridges clinical innovation, academic rigor, and compassionate service, making a meaningful impact on patients, peers, and the communities he serves.
Dr. Udaya Shivangi
Dr. Udaya Shivangi is a distinguished physician, renowned for her clinical expertise and visionary leadership in healthcare and community advocacy. As the Founder and Director of Magnolia Sleep Center, she has dedicated herself to advancing sleep health, offering specialized care for individuals with sleep disorders and raising awareness about the crucial role of sleep in overall well-being. Her commitment to excellence is reflected in her hands-on approach to patient care and her broader mission to educate the public on sleep-related issues.
Dr. Shivangi serves as CEO of Apple Billing & Credentialing Inc, where she leads efforts to empower healthcare professionals through improved operational efficiency and technology- driven solutions, particularly in revenue cycle management. Her innovative leadership ensures that healthcare providers have the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of billing and credentialing, ultimately enhancing patient care and practice sustainability.
Dr. Shivangi’s influence extends into health media and wellness communications. As an Advisory Board Member for Media Connect-Bangalore and Chair of the Health Connect Division, she plays a pivotal role in shaping public health messaging and promoting wellness initiatives. Her guidance ensures that health information reaches diverse audiences, fostering greater understanding and actionable change.
Her dedication to holistic health is further demonstrated through her role as Project Director of the Healthy Mississippi Organic Millet Initiative. This program emphasizes sustainable nutrition and wellness outreach, advocating for the integration of organic millet into diets to improve health outcomes and promote community wellness.
A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in medicine, Dr. Shivangi currently serves as President of the American Association of Multi Ethnic Physicians, USA. In this capacity, she champions equitable healthcare access and celebrates the contributions of physicians from varied backgrounds. Her advisory work with Media Connect-Bangalore, Health Connect Division, and the Healthy Mississippi Organic Millet Initiative highlights her multifaceted commitment to media, nutrition, and public health outreach.
Her expertise is further sought as an advisor for platforms such as Health and Wellness News and
Global Net News, where she guides health and wellness communications that inform and inspire
communities.
Central to Dr. Shivangi’s life and work is her dedication to service—a value she embraces wholeheartedly. As she eloquently states, “A life dedicated to service never truly ends—it continues through the lives it touches.” Her ongoing community involvement and professional leadership are a testament to the lasting influence of her late husband, Dr. Sampatkumar Shivangi, and the enduring legacy of the Shivangi family. Through her tireless efforts, Dr. Udaya Shivangi continues to inspire and empower others, leaving a profound impact on healthcare and society.
Dr. Satheesh Kathula
Dr. Satheesh Kathula stands out as a respected leader, oncologist, and advocate whose career spans nearly 25 years of dedicated patient care, academic involvement, and community service. As the immediate past president of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), Dr. Kathula has been instrumental in advancing cancer treatment and addressing broader issues affecting the medical and South Asian communities in the United States.
A graduate of Siddhartha Medical College in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Kathula has continued to expand his expertise through prominent academic appointments and ongoing education. He serves as a clinical professor of medicine at Wright State University’s Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton, Ohio, shaping the next generation of physicians. His pursuit of excellence is further reflected by his completion of the Global Healthcare Leaders Program at Harvard University and a certificate in Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare from Stanford University. He is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine, underscoring his commitment to holistic and preventive care.
An accomplished author, Dr. Kathula has contributed numerous medical papers and published the best-selling book “Immigrant Doctors: Chasing the Big American Dream,” which sheds light on the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of immigrant physicians in the United States. He is currently working on a second book focused on promoting cancer awareness for the general public.
Beyond his clinical and academic achievements, Dr. Kathula is a passionate advocate for community health and philanthropy. He has organized bone marrow donor drives to address the critical shortage of South Asian donors and was named “Man of the Year – 2018” by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for his efforts in raising funds for blood cancer research and treatment.
Dr. Kathula’s philanthropy extends to India, where he founded the Pathfinder Institute of Pharmacy and Educational Research (PIPER) in Warangal, Telangana—an institution that has graduated over 1,000 students. He supports medical camps and has donated vital infrastructure, including a defibrillator, water purification system, CPR center, and library, to his native community, demonstrating his commitment to improving healthcare access and education both locally and abroad.
Dr. Kathula’s accomplishments have been widely recognized. He received the U.S. Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, the Inspirational Award from the Raising Awareness of Youth with Autism (RAYWA) Foundation in December 2024, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Indo-American Press Club (IAPC) in May 2025. He was appointed Chair of the Board of Directors of IAPC for 2026 and previously received the IAPC’s Leadership Award in 2005. Through his enduring commitment to medicine and service, Dr. Satheesh Kathula continues to inspire, educate, and advocate for better health outcomes and stronger communities.
Dharmatma Saran
For nearly four decades, Dharmatma Saran has stood at the forefront of a quiet cultural revolution—one that blends beauty, heritage, and empowerment into a global movement. As the founder and chairman of the New York–based India Festival Committee (IFC), Saran is the pioneering force behind the world’s most prominent desi beauty pageants, including Miss India Worldwide, Mrs. India Worldwide, Miss India USA, and their state-level counterparts. His mission has always been clear: to celebrate Indian culture on the world stage while empowering women of Indian origin across continents.
In 1980 along with Miss India New York, he started the first Miss India USA and Miss Teen India Worldwide. He is the Founder and Past President of Bihar Association of North America; Founder and Past Chairman of Cultural Council of GOPIO, and served as the Publicity Chairman of Federation of Indian Associations (FIA).
Saran’s journey began far from the glamour of international pageantry. After migrating from Bihar to the United States more than 40 years ago—with an LLB from Magadh University and a master’s degree in International Relations from Patna University—he founded the India Festival Committee in 1974. His early cultural shows in New York’s Central Park, featuring bhangra, garba, music, and fashion, offered the diaspora a vibrant connection to their roots. These humble beginnings laid the foundation for what would become a global cultural institution.
In 1980, Saran launched Miss India New York, a small but groundbreaking event that quickly gained momentum. By 1990, he expanded the concept globally with Miss India Worldwide—the first international Indian beauty pageant. Today, participants from more than 40 countries compete annually, and the event’s live webcast reaches over 300 million viewers. The pageant has become a symbol of cultural pride, unity, and philanthropy.
Unlike mainstream pageants, Saran’s competitions emphasize tradition and dignity. Contestants showcase Indian attire, performing arts, and values, reflecting his belief that elegance need not rely on revealing clothing. His commitment to cultural preservation and empowerment has earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Bharat Gaurav Lifetime Achievement Award at the United Nations in 2017 and a Community Service Award from GOPIO.
Beyond pageantry, Saran’s influence extends into community leadership. He has served in key roles within the Federation of Indian Associations, GOPIO, and the Bihar Association of North America. His events also champion philanthropy, with many titleholders raising significant funds for charitable causes worldwide.
Supported by his wife and co-chairperson, Neelam Saran, he has traveled to more than 35 countries, nurturing a global platform where culture, empowerment, and representation converge. Humble yet visionary, Dharmatma Saran continues to expand his mission, proving that beauty—when rooted in purpose—can inspire generations.
Andy Bhatia
Andy Bhatia’s distinguished career and steadfast dedication to community engagement have earned him recognition as a leading figure in both the airline industry and the Indian American diaspora. Trained as an engineer, Andy devoted over thirty-five years to Air India, where he rose through the ranks to assume senior sales and management roles based in New York.
His contributions spanned field assignments and pivotal positions at the airline’s North American headquarters, where he became known for his strategic leadership, relationship-building skills, and ability to drive sustained revenue growth in highly competitive markets. Throughout his tenure, Andy’s vision and innovative approach were instrumental in advancing Air India’s presence and influence across the United States.
Beyond his corporate achievements, Andy’s impact is deeply felt within the Indian American community, particularly across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. For more than a quarter-century, he has been a visible and trusted leader, dedicating his time and expertise to the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA). After serving in various leadership capacities, Andy was elected President of FIA, taking on the responsibility of guiding one of the most prominent organizations representing the Indian diaspora in the United States. Under his stewardship, FIA expanded its cultural, educational, and civic programs, including the renowned India Day Parade in New York City, which celebrates Indian heritage and fosters cross-cultural understanding. Andy’s passion for bridging cultures is further reflected in his efforts to promote tourism and cultural awareness of India throughout North America. He was the driving force behind the “Know India Seminars,” a series of programs launched across the U.S. and Canada that educated thousands of travel professionals and positioned India as a premier destination for global travelers.
His creative initiatives, such as cooperative tour marketing and the production of industry publications, showcased his knack for merging commerce with cultural diplomacy, further strengthening ties between India and the international community.
Motivated by values instilled by his parents—who were active in community service in Gujarat through the Lions Club International—Andy views leadership as a responsibility to serve others rather than merely a title to hold.
His sustained contributions have been acknowledged by organizations including FIA, the National Federation of Indian Associations, and various civic bodies in New York. Today, Andy Bhatia is widely respected for his ability to blend professional excellence with a lasting commitment to community impact, inspiring others to pursue service and connection as guiding principles in both career and life.
