Dr. Rania Elkhatib to Receive Inspiring Arab Woman Award

DSA News
October 30, 2024

Division of Student Affairs, Student Health Center psychiatrist, Dr. Rania Elkhatib, is set to be recognized for her achievements and contributions at the upcoming Arab American Cultural & Community Center’s (ACC) Annual Unity & Friendship Gala on October 26th.  

Dr. Elkhatib’s is a committed supporter of the Arab community as well as the student community at the University of Houston.

“We are so proud of Dr. Elkhatib for winning this award. Her talent and dedication are inspiring. She is a beloved member of our Student Health Center and a great healthcare professional but above all, a great human being,” said Dr. Gabriela Ortiz, Executive Director, UH Health Center.

The award, which celebrates the accomplishments and impact of Arab American women in various fields, is one of four awards being presented at this year’s gala and the only one in this category.

“Dr. Elkhatib is a great psychiatrist, who approaches her patients’ needs with a great sense of compassion. She always goes above and beyond to make sure they are connected with the resources they need in order to thrive as UH students,” Dr. Ortiz said.

A member of the American Psychiatric Association, National Arab America Medical Association and Texas Society of Psychiatric Physicians, she joined UH in 2021. Prior to her work at UH, Dr. Elkhatib was an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston. She also works with refugee families as a volunteer for the Volunteer Initiative for Acculturation (VIA) program.

Dr. Elkhatib earned her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Texas Medical Branch, Master of Policy Science from the University of Maryland and Bachelor of Science in Biology from the American University of Beirut. She has been published in several psychiatric journals.

The ACC is a non-profit, non-sectarian and non-political organization dedicated to serve the needs of Arab Americans and the general community of Houston, promoting cultural understanding and providing various community services.

Written by Lisa Raynor-Keck, Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications – Health and Wellbeing, Student Affairs