Dr. Sanjay Shewakramani is many things—an emergency medicine physician, a university professor, a fitness entrepreneur and a community wellness advocate. He’s also a proud member of the Cincinnati Parks Foundation Board of Directors and servs on our Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness committee. As Medical Director of the Emergency Department at UC Health’s West Chester Hospital and Associate Professor at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, he knows firsthand the toll our fast-paced world takes on health. That’s exactly why he’s so passionate about the healing power of nature and community connection.
We recently sat down with Dr. Shewakramani to hear more about what inspired him to join the board, what keeps him motivated, and how he sees parks playing a central role in community wellness.
A Fortunate Path to Parks
“It was really fortuitous,” he said of joining the board. “A lot of things came together. I’ve learned to appreciate nature more and more over the last eight years, and I was looking for ways to combine health, nature and community work—to improve community health and wellness through nature.”
A meeting with fellow board member Christine Schaub helped him realize he’d found the perfect opportunity to do just that.
Turning Green Spaces Into Healing Places
Of all the initiatives supported by the Foundation, two stand out most for Dr. Shewakramani: the revitalization of Owl’s Nest Park and the Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness program in collaboration with Osher Center for Integrative Health at the University of Cincinnati.
“Owl’s Nest Park project is truly inspiring. The energy and excitement from the East Walnut Hills and Evanston communities around the park’s upgrades is contagious. This revitalized space isn’t just a renovation—it’s a powerful bridge bringing two neighborhoods closer together.”
Healing the Healers
As for the Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness Program, his passion is deeply personal.
“I want to help people feel better and especially the health providers. Burnout in healthcare is a real concern, and this program is a great way to address it. If we don’t feel well, we can’t help our patients.”
He emphasizes how easy it can be to make a difference. “Spending time outside, walking, socializing are incredibly important for our wellbeing. Unfortunately, med school doesn’t put emphasis on the importance of this aspect of healthcare. But this program offers solutions that are easy to implement and the results it can bring are maximal.”
Building Momentum, One Connection at a Time
“There’s constant activity, excitement, and a push to do more for the community—it’s invigorating,” says Dr. Shewakramani, reflecting on his first year on the Board. “Personally, I’ve been focused on connecting people to people and people to ideas.“
When asked what qualities make a good board member, he keeps it simple: “Have an appreciation for parks and what they can do to bring the community together and expose us to the beauty that is life.”
Dr. Shewakramani is optimistic about the impact the Foundation can make in the next five years. “I look forward to seeing the Owl’s Nest project completed. This project is so much more than just infrastructure—it’s an example of how parks are creating a more connected, healthier city.”
Finding Purpose in the Outdoors
Giving back is a natural extension of his worldview. “I look gratefully upon my life, including the painful moments, and the effect parks had on me when I wasn’t feeling my best. I want to show others what parks can do.”
That mindset also helps him maintain balance in his own busy life. “My motto is ‘help the few to help the many.’ I focus on what I can control and who I can help. Everything I do in a day brings me joy—and when it brings me joy, it results in wellness.”
Dr. Shewakramani believes that social isolation is the greatest challenge of our time—and that parks may hold the solution. “Parks offer social connection. People can volunteer, attend an event like a concert, yoga, or skating and connect with both nature and the community.”
When asked about his favorite park, he doesn’t hesitate. “Alms Park,” he says. “When I first moved here, I missed the deer I used to see in my backyard. On my first walk in Alms, two bucks jumped ahead of me on the trail, and I knew I was home.”
A Vision for a Healthier Cincinnati
Looking ahead, he’s motivated by a larger vision: “The CEO of UC Health has a mission to make Cincinnati the healthiest city in the United States. I truly believe parks can play a major role in achieving that.”
We’re grateful to have Dr. Shewakramani on our Board of Directors—not only for his compassion and insight, but for the vision, energy and dedication he brings to our mission. His commitment to community wellness and belief in the power of parks will help shape a healthier, more connected Cincinnati for years to come.