Dr. Davyani Srivastava realized early in life that access to comprehensive reproductive care was not just a medical issue, but a fundamental right that impacts entire communities. Her passion for women’s health issues will make her a strong advocate as an Ob/Gyn who aspires to be a leader in the field.

Davyani Srivastava, M.D.

What this award means: This award represents the culmination of the advocacy and service that have defined my medical school journey. Advocacy has always been at the heart of my values, and serving as Class President allowed me to support my peers in meaningful ways – whether by addressing equity concerns, fostering a sense of community, or amplifying student voices.

Mentor comment: Davyani has demonstrated a true gift for leadership. She is incredibly engaging and passionate in her advocacy for both patients and her classmates. It has been a joy to work alongside her to make continuous improvements to the curriculum, support services, and the learning environment. Her ability to communicate in an upbeat, constructive manner has made her very effective as a leader. – Angela Mihalic, M.D., Dean of Medical Students, Associate Dean for Student Affairs, and Professor of Pediatrics

Background and family: I was born in India and immigrated to Dallas with my family when I was 4 years old. With my parents working in both tech and education, I grew up in a household that valued learning, service, and advocacy. My Hindu upbringing further reinforced these values, emphasizing duty (dharma), compassion (daya), and the importance of helping those most in need (seva).

What led to your career path: My parents’ values shaped my passion for advocacy and education, which I carried into my roles as a tutor, mentor, and Class President. Throughout medical school, I saw firsthand how disparities in reproductive health disproportionately affect marginalized populations, reinforcing my commitment to Ob/Gyn. I believe every patient deserves to make informed choices about their health, and I am passionate about bridging gaps in access through education, policy advocacy, and compassionate care.

College: As a double major in biochemistry and Spanish at the University of Tulsa, I combined my passion for science and cultural competency to better serve diverse communities. My leadership roles included serving as a Global Scholar, senior organizer of TEDxUTulsa, senior academic tutor, and lead Peer Health Educator with the Take Control Initiative. Recognized as a Presidential and Toyota Scholar, Mortar Board, and Phi Beta Kappa member, and a finalist for Tulsa’s 2019 Woman of the Year, I developed a deep commitment to the intersection of medicine, education, and equity.

UTSW activities: I served as an officer for Future Residents of Ob/Gyn, organizing mentorship and educational events. Through that role, I founded the Parkland Ob/Gyn Patient Enrichment Program to support extended-stay antepartum patients and their families with social and self-care activities. My research with the Department of Community and Family Medicine focused on developing a culturally appropriate health literacy video series for refugees across DFW. I also launched the Dallas Chapter of the Period Education Project to address menstrual health disparities.

Surprising fact: One thing people might not know about me is my passion for painting. It’s my favorite way to relax and express creativity.

Future plans: After completing my residency at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, my future plans include becoming a generalist Ob/Gyn and possibly pursuing a fellowship in complex family planning or reproductive endocrinology. My passion lies in providing compassionate, evidence-based care while advocating for reproductive health access and education.

About the award: The Leadership Award annually goes to one or more student officers of the graduating class and includes a $1,000 award.