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