Pittsburgh, March 22, 2026 — Representatives of the University of Pittsburgh Dept. of Neurological Surgery's Neurotrauma Clinical Trials Center, led by David O. Okonkwo, MD, PhD, and Ava M. Puccio, RN, PhD, were honored to participate in the Chuck Noll Foundation for Brain Injury Research's inaugural scientific symposium, "Advances in Brain Injury Research: Transforming Lives Through Better Science," held at Acrisure Stadium on March 20, 2026.
Dr. Okonkwo delivered a presentation titled "Football and the Brain: Findings from the Brain Health Initiative." The symposium convened leading clinicians and researchers from across the country to share the latest advancements in concussion diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Our department extends its gratitude to the Chuck Noll Foundation for its past, current, and ongoing support of brain injury research.
Pictured left to right: David O. Okonkwo, MD, PhD; Ava M. Puccio, RN, PhD; Kate Edelman; Steve Benso; Shawn Eagle, PhD.
Dr. Okonkwo is speaking on 'Football and the Brain: Findings from the Brain Health Initiative'.