Doisy College Names 2026 Precommencement Speaker
Richa Shashank Kulkarni, a 2026 Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences candidate, was selected to serve as the student speaker at the Edward and Margaret Doisy College of Health Sciences precommencement ceremony on 4:30 p.m. on Friday, May 15, in Chaifetz Arena.
Enrolled in the health sciences program on the pre-med track, Kulkarni minors in psychology and biology. She has maintained an outstanding academic record while building a history of deep involvement and advocacy for the student body at multiple levels in Saint Louis University and engaging in service of the wider St. Louis community.
“Richa Kulkarni is a student who reflects the values and mission of Saint Louis University and the Doisy College of Health Sciences,” said Teresa Neal, associate professor and one of Kulkarni's nominators for student precommencement speaker. “It has been rewarding to witness her growth from a quiet, serious freshman into a confident and respected university student leader. Grounded in the Jesuit values, Richa approaches her work with a sense of responsibility to others and an understanding of leadership as service.”
Kulkarni is graduating with a 3.98 GPA and a consistent record of being on the dean’s list at Saint Louis University. She engaged in research as a member of the Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy Research Team and a head EEG technician at the Luking Research Lab. One of the highlights of Kulkarni's university career is the impressive portfolio of leadership and service commitments, on and off campus, she has built.
During her time at SLU, Kulkarni held multiple roles with the Student Government Association, including senator for the Doisy College of Health Sciences, vice president for academic affairs and, most recently, vice president of finance, overseeing the allocation of over $1 million in funding to the 200-plus student organizations on campus.
She has fostered community, engagement and modeled values-based leadership for students through participation in the Billiken Buddies, Fall Welcome committee, Senior Year Experience committee and the planning group for the National Student Jesuit Leadership Conference.
In the true spirit of being “men and women for and with others” and service for a “higher purpose, greater good," Kulkarni’s time at SLU is also marked by unwavering commitment to creating a positive impact for the greater St. Louis community. Through long-term commitments to the St. Benedict Joseph Labre Ministry with the Homeless, Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital playroom and Overground Railroad to Literacy, she touched the lives of numerous community members in need of support.
“What truly distinguishes Richa, however, is the spirit with which she leads," said Julie Howe, associate professor in the Department of Clinical Health Sciences. "She embodies cura personalis in every interaction, approaches service with humility and consistency and understands leadership as a responsibility. She listens sincerely, engages thoughtfully and serves wholeheartedly."
Kulkarni’s achievements have earned her recognition and membership in multiple honor societies, including Alpha Eta, the national honor society for allied health professions; Alpha Sigma Nu, the national honor society of the Jesuit colleges and universities; Psi Chi International Honor Society; and Alpha Psy Omega Honor Society.
“Richa Kulkarni’s journey at Saint Louis University embodies embracing the Jesuit values of our institution and striving for magis,” said Tricia Austin, Ph.D., interim dean of Doisy College of Health Sciences. “She has excelled in her academic program, led in various capacities, strengthened our college and university community, and spread the gift of service to our greater community. She exemplifies the spirit and actions of a stellar member of our college. We wish her continued success in her studies and next steps.”
About SLU’s Edward and Margaret Doisy College of Health Sciences
The Doisy College of Health Sciences has provided students with the tools and education to become well-prepared healthcare professionals since 1929. The Doisy College of Health Sciences offers healthcare education at the baccalaureate, master’s, doctoral and professional levels in a variety of health-related fields.
About Saint Louis University
Saint Louis University is a Catholic, Jesuit institution that values academic excellence, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service. Founded in 1818, the University fosters the intellectual and character development of more than 13,000 students on two campuses in St. Louis and Madrid, Spain. Building on a legacy of more than 200 years, Saint Louis University continues to move forward with an unwavering commitment to a higher purpose, a greater good.