Satyam Saurabh Named Aggie Well-Being Champion

Ph.D. Candidate Satyam Saurabh has been named an Aggie Well-Being Champion. Saurabh is earning his Ph.D. with Dr. Frank Osterloh, in the UC Davis Department of Chemistry. His work explores perovskite oxynitride materials, including LaTaON₂, for applications in solar water splitting and sustainable energy technologies.

Satyam is a certified yoga instructor who integrates mindfulness and holistic wellness practices into his teaching and student support approach. He emphasizes balance, focus, and well-being alongside academic learning, helping students stay grounded in coursework. 

As a teaching assistant, he creates an inclusive and engaging classroom environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, building confidence, and achieving academic success. He is approachable and consistently available to support students during labs, office hours, and additional meetings when needed. By combining academic guidance with empathy and mindfulness, he fosters a supportive learning environment.

A nominator wrote that Saurabh provides flexible office hours and offers many ways for students to reach him with questions. The nominator also noted that he is encouraging and generous, adding: “He is extremely open and welcoming to many students, including those not under his sections, and a wonderful teaching assistant overall.”

Reflecting on the campus recognition, Satyam said, “This award motivates and encourages me to continue my commitment to teaching, supporting students, and fostering a positive and growth-oriented learning environment.”

“This award recognizes instructors and teaching assistants who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to fostering student well-being through compassionate, inclusive, and supportive teaching practices,” said Shantille Connolly, Associate Director of Health Promotion within the Department of Student Health and Counseling Services, which presents the award. “Their commitment to creating learning environments where students feel valued, supported, and empowered reflects the meaningful impact they have made in advancing the health and well-being of our campus community.”