Monday, November 10, 2025
Dr. Shafik Dharamsi, dean of the College of Public Health at UNT Health Fort Worth, has been accepted as a Distinguished Fellow of the Public Health Academy within
the National Academies of Practice, Class of 2026.
The National Academies of Practice is an interdisciplinary organization that brings together leading health professionals committed to advancing collaboration and transforming interprofessional healthcare. Selection as a Distinguished Fellow is among NAP’s highest professional honors, recognizing exceptional leadership and sustained contributions to the profession and to interprofessional, patient-centered care. The Public Health Academy bridges population-level and clinical perspectives to advance policies and practices that optimize systems of care, guided by NAP’s vision to collaborate to transform health and well-being. Public Health is NAP’s newest academy, welcomed in 2025.
“I am deeply honored to be elected a Distinguished Fellow of the National Academies of Practice,” Dharamsi said. “This recognition reflects the shared efforts of colleagues, students, and community partners who work tirelessly to improve health through collaboration, compassion, and competence. I look forward to contributing to NAP’s mission and to learning from peers dedicated to interprofessional practice and education.”
Dharamsi will be formally inducted during the NAP Annual Meeting and Forum in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the Induction Banquet and Awards Ceremony on Saturday, March 14, 2026, where he will receive the organization’s medallion as part of the Class of 2026.
“Dr. Dharamsi’s election as a Distinguished Fellow brings distinction to the College of Public Health and to UNT Health,” said Dr. Christopher Ray, provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs. “His leadership exemplifies our university’s commitment to community-engaged scholarship and interprofessional collaboration.”
“This honor underscores Dr. Dharamsi’s dedication to advancing public health practice
that is centered on a deep commitment to the communities we serve and improving lives
through partnership and innovation,” said Dr. Kirk Calhoun, president of UNT Health.
About the National Academies of Practice
The National Academies of Practice is a non-profit, interprofessional organization of distinguished practitioners and scholars representing multiple health professions who advocate for team-based, person-centered care. Fellows are elected by their peers in recognition of significant achievements and leadership that advance interprofessional practice and improve health outcomes.
From UNT Health Newsroom - Community by Maya McMillian