The New York Institute of Technology has awarded Dr. Krishan Kumar the honorary Doctor of Science degree, recognizing his extensive contributions to medicine and education during its 2026 Convocation Ceremony.
The New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) conferred the honorary degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) upon Dr. Krishan Kumar during its 2026 Convocation Ceremony held in Old Westbury, New York. This prestigious honor acknowledges Dr. Kumar’s more than 50 years of dedicated service in pediatrics, emergency medicine, and regional emergency medical services.
By receiving this dual distinction, Dr. Kumar joins an elite group of fewer than 200 physician-scholars across the United States who hold both an MD and a D.Sc. degree. This recognition underscores his significant impact on clinical practice, academic mentorship, and the training of over 5,300 emergency medical personnel in Nassau County.
The ceremony was attended by more than 7,000 graduates, faculty members, families, and distinguished guests, marking a momentous occasion for both the institution and Dr. Kumar. The Doctor of Science degree is one of the highest honors awarded by NYIT, reserved for individuals whose careers exemplify sustained scholarly achievement, leadership, and societal impact.
Dr. Kumar’s recognition places him among a select group of physician-scholars in the United States. With approximately 1.1 million active licensed physicians nationwide, fewer than 200 are estimated to hold both Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Science degrees. Notably, Dr. Kumar is the only known Indian American physician to receive this honor from NYIT, highlighting the exclusivity and academic significance of the award.
Recent recipients of the Doctor of Science degree include prominent figures such as Dr. Anthony Fauci, who was recognized in 2022 for his contributions to immunology and public health leadership. Dr. Kumar’s accolade reflects a career that spans over five decades, characterized by excellence in pediatrics, emergency medicine, emergency medical services (EMS), and medical education.
According to the official NYIT resolution, Dr. Kumar is honored “for his enduring dedication to medical education and public service.” His leadership roles include serving as Medical Director of the Nassau County Fire Police EMS Academy, a member of the New York State Board of Medicine, and Vice President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI). He has also been committed to mentoring future physicians and advancing healthcare education throughout his career.
Currently, Dr. Kumar serves as Clinical Professor of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM), where he has been a faculty member since 2011. His long-standing association with NYIT reflects a deep commitment to academic excellence, mentorship, and institutional growth.
In 2024, he further demonstrated this dedication by establishing the Kumar Family Scholarship, which supports fourth-year medical students and reaffirms his belief in the transformative power of education. Previously, Dr. Kumar held the position of Chair and Residency Program Director of Pediatrics at Nassau University Medical Center (NUMC), where he significantly advanced clinical care, expanded residency training programs, and served underserved communities.
One of Dr. Kumar’s most notable legacies is his transformative contribution to EMS education. As Medical Director of the Nassau County Fire Police EMS Academy, he has trained more than 5,000 EMTs and over 300 paramedics, significantly enhancing both regional and national emergency response systems. His influence extends globally, with many of his trainees contributing to healthcare delivery, academic medicine, and specialized fields across the United States and internationally.
A respected leader in organized medicine, Dr. Kumar serves as Vice President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) and is set to become President in July 2027. AAPI represents the interests of more than 150,000 physicians and is the second-largest medical association in the United States, following the American Medical Association. Dr. Kumar has been actively involved with AAPI for over 25 years in various leadership roles.
Additionally, he is a member of the New York State Board of Medicine and a Fellow of the Federation of State Medical Boards. His contributions extend to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Emergency Physicians, the American College of Sports Medicine, and the Indian Academy of Pediatrics.
Internationally, Dr. Kumar has played a pivotal role in advancing emergency medicine, EMS, and disaster medicine training programs in India, contributing to the development and formal recognition of these critical specialties.
Dr. Kumar’s numerous honors include the Honorary Alumnus Award from NYIT in 2026, the AAPI Most Distinguished Academic Physician Award in 2025, and the Pravasiya Bharatiya Award, the highest civilian award from the Government of Uttar Pradesh, India. He has also been recognized as one of America’s Top Pediatricians by the Consumer Research Council of America.
Reflecting on this significant recognition, Dr. Kumar stated, “This recognition reflects the collective efforts of countless students, colleagues, and communities. Medicine is ultimately about service, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve.”
About the New York Institute of Technology: NYIT is a leading global university committed to advancing innovation, education, and research across various disciplines, including health sciences, engineering, and technology.
According to NYIT.