Chicago: Dr. Bharat Barai, a distinguished Indian American physician and respected community leader, was honored with the inaugural Dr. Sampat Shivangi Legacy Award during the 43rd Annual Convention of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), held on July 26, 2025, in Cincinnati. The award recognizes Dr. Barai’s exceptional leadership, societal contributions, and long-standing association with the late Dr. Shivangi.
Congressman Jonathan Jackson, representing Illinois' 1st District, presented the award before an audience of nearly 1,000 physicians, dignitaries, and community members. The ceremony served as a moving tribute to Dr. Shivangi, whose lasting impact on healthcare, politics, and U.S.–India relations continues to resonate deeply across communities. His passing on February 10, 2025, in Jackson, Mississippi, marked the loss of a visionary leader whose legacy endures.
In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Barai reflected on his decades-long friendship with Dr. Shivangi and their shared mission to elevate Indo–U.S. relations. He highlighted how their joint efforts helped shape policy and deepen cross-cultural understanding between the two nations.
Born in Mumbai, Dr. Barai is a renowned physician and a prominent figure in the Indian American diaspora. He serves as Medical Director of the Cancer Institute at Methodist Hospitals, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at Indiana University Medical School, and Secretary—and former President—of the Indiana State Medical Licensing Board, a position he has held since 2000.
Dr. Barai’s medical education includes an MD in Medicine from the University of Illinois, and additional MDs in Medical Oncology and Hematology from Northwestern University and Rush University Medical Schools, respectively. He has held several leadership roles, including President of the Medical Staff and Chairman of the Medical Executive Committee at Methodist Hospitals. He also sits on the hospital's Board of Directors and the advisory board of Indiana University’s School of Business. Nationally, he has served on medical advisory panels for U.S. Senators and Members of Congress.
The Dr. Sampat Shivangi Foundation, which presented the award, is known for its unwavering belief that every individual deserves a chance to thrive. The foundation stands as a beacon of compassion and resilience, dedicated to fostering a more inclusive and harmonious world. Its work spans education, healthcare, mental wellness, tribal upliftment, women’s empowerment, and sports development—addressing the multifaceted needs of underserved communities.
Dr. Shivangi, a physician, philanthropist, and influential AAPI leader, played a critical role in strengthening Indo–U.S. relations. Notably, he contributed to the landmark Indo–U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement and worked with President George W. Bush to enhance bilateral cooperation. He also coordinated efforts with the Clinton administration to lift U.S. sanctions against India, further solidifying his role as a bridge-builder between the two nations.
Over the years, Dr. Shivangi received numerous accolades, including the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, the U.S. Congressional Recognition Award, the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Indo-American Press Club. His life’s work exemplified a steadfast commitment to healthcare, philanthropy, and diplomacy.
Reflecting on the philanthropic potential of the Indian American physician community, Dr. Shivangi once said, “I always wondered why our community, especially the 100,000 Indian American physicians in the U.S., have not taken on more philanthropic responsibility—either here or in our homeland. My hope and prayer is that many more will follow in this path. Let us be the change and bring about a better tomorrow. I dream of a world where all humanity lives with dignity and hope.”
His vision now lives on through the foundation that bears his name—and through leaders like Dr. Bharat Barai, who continue to uphold his mission.
