New York Institute of Technology Confers Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa)upon Dr. Krishan Kumar

The New York Institute of Technology has conferred the honorary degree of Doctor of Science upon Dr. Krishan Kumar during its 2026 Convocation Ceremony in Old Westbury, New York. The honor recognizes Dr. Kumar’s more than 50 years of contributions to pediatrics, emergency medicine, and regional emergency medical services. By receiving this dual distinction, Dr. Kumar joins an elite cohort of fewer than 200 physician-scholars nationwide holding both an MD and a D.Sc. degree, highlighting his extensive impact on clinical practice, academic mentorship, and the training of over 5,300 emergency medical personnel in Nassau County.

The New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) conferred the prestigious Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) degree upon Dr. Krishan Kumar, MD, D.Sc., FACEP, FAAP, FAEMS, during its 2026 Convocation Ceremony, attended by more than 7,000 graduates, faculty members, families, and distinguished guests.

This distinguished academic honor recognizes Dr. Kumar’s lifetime of extraordinary contributions to medicine, medical education, emergency medical services (EMS), and public service. The Doctor of Science degree is among the highest recognitions bestowed by the institution, reserved for individuals whose careers demonstrate sustained scholarly achievement, leadership, and societal impact.

This rare distinction places Dr. Kumar among an exceptionally small and distinguished group of physician–scholars in the United States. Among approximately 1.1 million active licensed physicians nationwide, fewer than 200 are estimated to hold both Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Science degrees. Dr. Kumar is also the only known Indian American physician to receive this honor from NYIT, underscoring both the exclusivity and academic significance of the award.

Recent recipients of this degree include prominent leaders such as Dr. Anthony Fauci, recognized in 2022 for his contributions to immunology and public health leadership. Within this distinguished tradition, Dr. Kumar’s recognition reflects a career spanning more than five decades of excellence in pediatrics, emergency medicine, EMS, and medical education.

As highlighted in the official NYIT resolution, Dr. Kumar is recognized “for his enduring dedication to medical education and public service, exemplified by his leadership as Medical Director of the Nassau County Fire Police EMS Academy, his service on the New York State Board of Medicine, and his role as Vice President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), along with his longstanding commitment to mentoring future physicians and advancing healthcare education.”

A Career of Leadership and Impact

Dr. Kumar currently serves as Clinical Professor of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM), where he has been a faculty member since 2011. Over more than four decades, his association with NYIT has reflected a deep commitment to academic excellence, mentorship, and institutional growth.

In 2024, he further demonstrated this dedication by establishing the Kumar Family Scholarship, supporting fourth-year medical students and reaffirming his belief in the transformative power of education.

Previously, Dr. Kumar served as Chair and Residency Program Director of Pediatrics at Nassau University Medical Center (NUMC), where he played a pivotal role in advancing clinical care, expanding residency training programs, and serving underserved communities. He also served as Chair of Emergency Medicine and held multiple academic and clinical appointments across leading institutions in New York.

Pioneering Contributions to Emergency Medical Services

One of Dr. Kumar’s most enduring legacies is his transformative contribution to EMS education. As Medical Director of the Nassau County Fire Police EMS Academy, he has trained more than 5,000 EMTs and over 300 paramedics, significantly strengthening regional and national emergency response systems.

His influence extends globally, with trainees contributing to healthcare delivery, academic medicine, and specialized fields across the United States and internationally.

National and Global Leadership

A respected leader in organized medicine, Dr. Kumar serves as Vice President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI)and he will be President of AAPI from July 2027 which represents the interest of more than 150, 000 physicians. AAPI is second biggest medical association after American Medical Association.

Dr Kumar has contributed to the AAPI for over 25 years in multiple leadership roles. He is also a member of the New York State Board of Medicine and a Fellow member of the Federation of the State Medical Boards. He has served the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Emergency Physicians, American College of Sports Medicine and the Indian Academy of Pediatrics as their member.

Internationally, he has played a pivotal role in advancing Emergency Medicine, EMS, and Disaster Medicine training programs in India, contributing to the development and formal recognition of these critical specialties.

Recognition of a Lifetime of Service

Dr. Kumar’s numerous honors include the “Honorary Alumnus Award from NYIT 2026, AAPI Most Distinguished Academic Physician Award (2025), the Pravasiya Bharatiya Award (Highest civilian award) from the Government of Uttar Pradesh, India, and recognition as one of America’s Top Pediatricians by the Consumer Research Council of America. Reflecting on the honor, Dr. Kumar stated:
“This recognition reflects the collective efforts of countless students, colleagues, and communities. Medicine is ultimately about service, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve.”

About New York Institute of Technology

New York Institute of Technology is a leading global university committed to advancing innovation, education, and research across disciplines, including the health sciences, engineer