Front Page
Dr. Saritha Bangara receives Discovery Foundation Grant for Research
By Austin College
Mar 13, 2026
Print this page
Email this article

Sherman, Texas -- Associate Professor of Public Health and Public Health Department Chair Dr. Saritha Bangara has received her third grant for research on “Educating Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) on Women’s Health Issues (WHIs) and IPV-associated Risk Factors using Data Driven and Trauma Informed Education Modules at the Grayson Crisis Center in Sherman, Texas.”

Bangara’s research with the Grayson Crisis Center began in 2019, with focus groups identifying the needs of individuals at the center and the gaps she and her student-interns could fill. Bangara received the first grant for her research in 2020 from the Discovery Foundation, which funded her research for three years. Last year, she received a grant from the Clara Blackford Smith & W. Aubrey Smith Charitable Foundation. Bangara has now received the third grant for her research from the Discovery Foundation which will fund her research from January 2026 to December 2026.

“I am incredibly grateful to the Discovery Foundation for their investment in our project once again and Austin College for their continued support in our mission,” said Bangara. “By fostering open dialogue and taking into consideration feedback we received during our education sessions from victims of intimate partner violence (IPV) at Grayson Crisis Center, we developed a new trauma-sensitive and data-driven curriculum regarding chronic health conditions for which IPV victims are at higher risk and identified additional barriers to healthcare to ensure these women have the comprehensive support and access to healthcare that they deserve.”

Austin College, a private national liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas, proudly celebrates 150 years in the Texoma region in 2026. Since establishing its home in Sherman in 1876, the College has formed deep and lasting partnerships with the community—collaborations that continue to enrich both campus life and the broader region. The residential student body of approximately 1,300 students and an expert faculty of more than 100 educators allow an 11:1 student-faculty ratio and personalized attention. Related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA), Austin College cultivates an inclusive atmosphere that supports students’ faith journeys regardless of religious tradition. Known for excellence in academic preparation, pre-professional foundations, and hands-on learning, Austin College is one of 44 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s Colleges That Change Lives. Founded in 1849, it is the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under its original name and charter.