30/05/2025
Highlights from IAPA's 46th Annual Meeting in Los Angeles.
If you weren't there, you missed out! The Indian American Psychiatric Association (IAPA) hosted its 46th Annual Meeting on May 17th at the historic Alexandria Ballrooms in Los Angeles. The event was a resounding success, bringing together leading figures in the psychiatric community for a day of insightful presentations, meaningful discussions, and vibrant camaraderie.
The afternoon kicked off with a resident poster session, featuring 17 impressive presentations. Congratulations to Dr. Neetu Scariya, Bhargav Patel, and MS3 Samuel John, who were awarded first, second, and third prize for their outstanding posters.
A highlight of the meeting was a compelling lecture by Shekhar Aanatha, Dean of the University of Pittsburgh and winner of the Outstanding Academician award. His presentation on the newer receptors was exceptionally well received. Following this, Drs. Karuna Poddar and Rohit Chandra led a crucial discussion on the pressing issue of violence towards healthcare workers. The business meeting also included important updates on IAPA Bylaws changes and financial reports.
The evening culminated in a dazzling banquet attended by 170 members and numerous dignitaries from the American Psychiatric Association (APA), including Drs. Viswanathan, Miskimen-Rivera, Wills, and Madaan.
We were also honored to host international guests, including Dr. Savita Malhotra (IPS President), Dr. Vijay Seetapatti (President-elect of the Canadian Psychiatric Association), and Dr. Subodh Dave (Dean of the Royal College of Psychiatrists).
The IAPA recognized several individuals for their exceptional contributions: Dr. Ravi Kolli for Public Service, and Bhargav Patel and Kaushal Shah for Outstanding Residents. The event also marked a transition in leadership, as Drs. TARAK VASAVADA, MD and Vani Rao concluded their terms as president and Chair of the Board of Trustees, respectively. Dr. Tanuja Gandhi, MD, FAPA, President of IAPA 2025-27, introduced her promising young team, and Dr. Dilip Patel officially took over as the new Chair of the Board of Trustees (BOT).
The evening was filled with laughter, fostering both old and new connections. Guests enjoyed a delightful array of Indian appetizers and a buffet. True to IAPA tradition, the banquet concluded with members enthusiastically dancing to Bollywood music, courtesy of the DJ.
The success of the 46th Annual Meeting would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors: PRMS, Bristol Myers, AbbVie, Intracellular, Otsuka, Alkermese, Ignite Investments, and Modi Financial Group.
