Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) was honored by the US Congress during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month as a truly exceptional individual whose unwavering dedication to community, culture and healing has left an indelible mark on countries and countless lives across this nation.
In an address in the US Congress on May 19, 2025 Congressman Jonathan Jackson of Illinois, stated in address to the House of Representatives, “As we proudly celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time when we honor the rich histories, cultures and invaluable contributions of the AAPI community, I rise with immense pride and heartfelt admiration to recognize a highly regarded physician, academic and leader in oncology and hematology.”
Rep. Jackson said, “Dr. Kathula is known for his exceptional intellect, compassion and integrity.” Dr. Kathula serves as a clinical professor of medicine at Wright State University. “In these capacities, he is dedicated not only to enhancing medical knowledge and patient care, but also to fostering a future where equity representation and cultural competence are integral to healthcare systems,” Rep. Jackson said.
Since becoming board certified in both Hematology and Oncology in 2002 Dr. Kathula has treated 1000s of patients, providing care that is not only scientifically rigorous, but also deeply human. “He listens with empathy, leads with conviction, and heals with heart. His expertise is complemented by his commitment to preventive and lifestyle medicine,” Rep. Jackson said.
As a Diplomat of the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine, championing holistic approaches to managing and reducing Chronic Disease, especially in underserved communities, “Dr Kathula’s contributions extend far beyond the walls of his clinic. As a visionary leader in AAPI, he has amplified the voices of Physicians of Indian religion, advocated for meaningful healthcare reforms, and promoted international collaboration in medicine and research under his leadership,” Rep. Jackson added.
Under his leadership, AAPI has tackled disparities in access to care, empowered the next generation of healthcare professionals and highlighted vital issues such as mental health, preventive care, and physician well-being, Rep. Jackson stated. “What marks Dr Kathula’s story especially inspiring is his unwavering commitment to service, whether advocating for improved healthcare delivery in rural areas, mentoring medical students, are coordinating medical relief efforts.”
According to Rep. Jackson, “Dr. Kathula brings a profound sense of purpose to everything he undertakes. He is not only a healer of individuals, but also a builder of healthier communities. Dr. Kathula’s work is a shining example of what is possible when excellence in medicine combines with compassion and a strong sense of cultural identity. His legacy is measured not only by the patients he has cared for and the policies he has helped shape, but also by the countless lives he has inspired, reminding us all that leadership grounded in empathy can transform systems and service driven by heart can change the world.”
In conclusion, Rep. Jackson said, “Mr. Speaker, in honoring Dr Kathula during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we recognize a man who embodies the highest ideals of the medical profession, the spirit of public service, and the power of cultural heritage. His journey serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that with dedication and humility and compassion, one individual can truly make a global impact.”
In his response, Dr. Kathula said, “It is indeed a great honor to receive a Congressional Proclamation on Congressional record, as one of the outstanding Asian Americans, on the occasion of the American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Washington, DC, the name of the honorees will be archived in the Congressional Records permanently at the Library of Congress.”