Dr. Srinivas Tantravahi: 2026 Binaytara Volunteer of the Year Spotlight

Dr. Srinivas Tantravahi has been named the 2026 Binaytara Volunteer of the Year, recognizing his exceptional commitment to advancing cancer health equity, strengthening global oncology education, and supporting underserved communities through Binaytara’s mission-driven initiatives.

Dr. Srinivas Tantravahi is one of the 2026 recipients of the Binaytara Volunteer of the Year Award. This award honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to Binaytara’s mission through their volunteer work, actively contributing to its efforts to improve access to cancer care and to make a meaningful impact in the community. He is among the honorees of the Binaytara Annual Gala Celebration held at the Summit on Cancer Health Disparities (SCHD26) on Saturday, March 27th, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency in Bellevue, Washington.

Meet Dr. Srinivas Tantravahi: A Champion for Cancer Health Equity at Huntsman Cancer Institute

An Associate Professor of Hematology and Hematologic Malignancies at the University of Utah’s Huntsman Cancer Institute, Dr. Tantravahi has established himself as a dedicated clinician, educator, and advocate for equitable cancer care. His expertise in hematologic malignancies, paired with a deep personal commitment to underserved communities, has made him a natural and invaluable partner in Binaytara’s work.

“It is my honor to receive this award,” he shared. Dr. Tantravahi has been a cornerstone of Binaytara’s educational infrastructure, serving on the Education Committee, presenting on targeted therapies in acute leukemia at the International Cancer Congress in Nepal, and moderating sessions on hematologic malignancies at Summit on Cancer Health Disparities events. His consistent presence, whether as faculty presenter, session leader, or education committee member, has helped shape the continuing medical education programs that are central to Binaytara’s impact.

From the Himalayas to the Clinic: How Dr. Srinivas Tantravahi Lives Binaytara’s Mission

Few commitments demonstrate dedication quite like trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in the Himalayas, but for Dr. Tantravahi, it was a testament to his unwavering support for Binaytara’s mission. He was among the 12 participants who undertook the arduous 2025 Annapurna trek to raise awareness and funds to advance cancer equity. His reflection on the experience, noting the kindness of local people and his gratitude for the opportunity, captured the humility that characterizes all his work with Binaytara.

The trek was a visible expression of the values that guide his volunteerism: showing up, going the distance, and doing it with gratitude.

Dr. Tantravahi during the trek to Annapurna Base Camp

What the Binaytara Volunteer of the Year Award Means to Dr. Tantravahi

Receiving this recognition carries real weight for Dr. Tantravahi, rooted in his deep respect for the organization and the people behind it.

“Binaytara is such a fantastic organization doing meaningful work in cancer health equity, so to be recognized in this way is a real honor. I feel grateful to be part of a community that is so committed, compassionate, and mission-driven.”

He further shared that the award is a reflection of the collective spirit of everyone who gives their time and expertise to Binaytara’s cause.

Why Dr. Tantravahi is Dedicated to Cancer Health Equity and Binaytara’s Work

Dr. Tantravahi’s path to cancer health equity work is deeply personal. Growing up in a country where access to healthcare, especially cancer care, is severely limited, he witnessed firsthand how difficult it can be for patients to receive a diagnosis or access proper treatment.

“Those experiences stayed with me and inspired me to get involved in cancer health equity work. Volunteering with Binaytara felt like a natural way to contribute to improving those gaps.”

What began as a personal reckoning with inequality in healthcare has grown into a sustained commitment to changing the systems that perpetuate it. “Binaytara offered both the platform and the community to make that commitment count,” Dr. Tantravahi noted.

How Binaytara's Work in Resource-Poor Communities Fuels Dr. Tantravahi's Commitment

After years of sustained involvement, what keeps Dr. Tantravahi returning to this work is a conviction that no effort is too small.

“What keeps me going is knowing that even small steps can make a big difference. Improving access to cancer care in resource-poor areas like Nepal, Africa, and India can truly change lives. Whether it’s through education, screening, or better treatment access, every effort brings us closer to more equitable care.”

This perspective, that incremental progress compounds into meaningful change, shapes not just his volunteerism but his approach to education and advocacy across every platform Binaytara offers.

Vision for Cancer Stigma, Early Detection, and Equitable Care in Underserved Communities

When it comes to the future of cancer care for underserved populations, Dr. Tantravahi’s hopes are both ambitious and grounded in practical action. He points first to stigma as one of the most persistent barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment.

“I would really love to see the stigma around cancer disappear. In many communities, fear and misunderstanding delay diagnosis and treatment.”

He also calls for a stronger emphasis on early detection and prevention, particularly for cancers like cervical and oral cancer, where screening and education can dramatically improve outcomes. He is encouraged by Binaytara’s grassroots efforts, including medical camps and community education programs focused on preventive care. “That kind of grassroots effort can truly make a lasting impact,” he says.

Dr. Srinivas Tantravahi’s Message to Oncologists Considering Volunteering with Binaytara

To fellow oncologists weighing whether to get involved, Dr. Tantravahi’s message is straightforward and warm.

“Go for it. I know most cancer physicians have incredibly busy schedules, but even a small amount of time and effort can make a huge difference. Volunteering in this field gives you a real sense of purpose and fulfillment.”

He speaks from experience when he describes what awaits those who leap: meaningful friendships, a sense of purpose that extends beyond the clinic, and the knowledge that their expertise is reaching communities that truly need it. “You won’t just make an impact,” he adds, “you’ll also build meaningful friendships along the way.”

Join Us in Honoring Dr. Srinivas Tantravahi at Binaytara’s Annual Gala

Our recognition awards reflect the compassionate, scholarly, and community-driven spirit of Binaytara. We will celebrate the awardees at our annual Binaytara gala at SCHD26. To attend this event, register for SCHD26 here.