Indian American psychiatrist and healthcare leader Dr. Anitha Iyer has been selected to receive the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award from Columbia University’s Teachers College, recognizing her outstanding contributions to mental healthcare, academic leadership, and public service. The prestigious honor is among the institution’s highest recognitions for graduates who have demonstrated exceptional professional accomplishments and lasting impact in their fields.
The award will be presented during the Teachers College Alumni Awards ceremony on October 3 as part of the university’s annual Alumni Day celebration in New York.
Dr. Iyer currently serves as an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She also leads behavioral health population management initiatives within the Mount Sinai Health System, where she works to improve access to mental healthcare and strengthen patient outcomes. Her efforts focus on ensuring that quality mental health services are available to individuals from all communities, emphasizing the importance of timely and equitable care.
Throughout her career, Dr. Iyer has earned recognition as a leading voice in behavioral healthcare. She is a frequent speaker at national conferences, where she shares expertise on mental health policy, clinical care, and strategies to improve healthcare delivery. Her knowledge has also made her a trusted expert for media discussions covering mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
In addition to her clinical and academic responsibilities, Dr. Iyer plays an active role in advancing the psychology profession through national organizations. She serves on the American Psychological Association’s Board for the Advancement of Psychology in the Public Interest and is also a member of the Executive Board of the APA’s Division 18, which focuses on psychologists working in public service settings.
Dr. Iyer’s academic background reflects her commitment to interdisciplinary healthcare. She earned multiple degrees from Columbia University’s Teachers College, including a doctorate, a master’s degree, and an additional graduate qualification. She also holds a Master of Public Health degree from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, further strengthening her expertise in public health and behavioral medicine.
The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes Dr. Iyer’s sustained dedication to improving mental healthcare, advancing research, and shaping policies that promote greater access to psychological services. Her achievements continue to highlight the growing contributions of Indian American professionals to healthcare, education, and public service across the United States.
