ABOUT NNS
About > Community, Opportunity and Support
NNS Commitment to Community, Opportunity, and Support
The National Neurotrauma Society (NNS) is dedicated to cultivating a professional environment that encourages connection, support, and opportunity for researchers, clinicians, and trainees from all walks of life. Our annual meetings and all related events are designed to reflect these values, ensuring that individuals at all career stages feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to contribute to the field of neurotrauma.
Our mission—to advance neurotrauma research through collaboration, communication, and career development—is strengthened by four key pillars focused on access, leadership development, and broad engagement.
PILLAR 1
Supporting Trainees and
Early-Career Scientists
We believe a strong scientific community begins with supporting the next generation. Key initiatives include:
TEAM (Training, Education, and Mentoring Committee)
Formerly WiNTR, TEAM supports all trainees with mentorship, career guidance, and resources.
MORE INFO ON TEAM
Opportunity Travel Awards
Help trainees attend the NNS Symposium despite financial or logistical barriers.
MORE INFO ON TRAVEL AWARDS
WiNTR VISA Award
Supports early-career women in attending the annual meeting and visiting sponsor labs.
MORE INFO ON WINTR VISA AWARD
New Collaborative Exchange Award
Extends support to early-career researchers with limited access to exchange opportunities.
Local Scholars Program
Introduces local undergraduates to neurotrauma research and career paths at the annual Symposium.
PILLAR 2
Encouraging Broad
Participation in Leadership
We recognize that a diverse and inclusive leadership team—one that reflects a broad range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives—strengthens our organization and supports better outcomes for the field of neurotrauma. Recent efforts to promote inclusive leadership include:
Creation of a Community Engagement Role on Council
This new position is focused on listening to and representing the voices of our full membership. The role helps guide Council decisions and programs to ensure they reflect the diverse needs, experiences, and priorities of the NNS community.
MEET THE COUNCIL
Updated Nomination Guidelines
We are implementing new practices to make the leadership nomination process more transparent and inclusive. These updates aim to broaden awareness of how members can engage with NNS leadership and encourage a wider range of individuals to step forward for nomination or to nominate others.
PILLAR 3
Strengthening and Expanding Membership
We are working to broaden engagement across the field and encourage participation in NNS by a wider range of individuals. Strategies include:
Membership Outreach Campaigns
Annual efforts are focused on converting meeting attendees and collaborators into active NNS members.
Partnerships with Colleges and Universities
Through the Local Scholars Program and future education-focused grants, NNS is building stronger ties with institutions that can help grow interest in neurotrauma research.
Recognition and Awards
A new annual award will highlight members who exemplify the values of mentorship, outreach, and expanding opportunity in the field.
PILLAR 4
Promoting Fair Access in
Research and Advocacy
We are committed to improving outcomes in neurotrauma by encouraging research that reflects the full scope of affected individuals and communities:
Encouraging Broad Patient Representation
The NNS Advocacy Committee supports efforts to ensure that research includes patient populations across a range of demographics and lived experiences.
Awareness and Outreach
Funds raised through initiatives like the annual NNS Fun Run support efforts to increase visibility and access to care across racial, gender, geographic, and economic boundaries.
How You Can Support These Goals
- Nominate Colleagues for Awards and Leadership
Help recognize those working to expand opportunity and strengthen the NNS community. - Mentor the Next Generation
Invite and support students and early-career scientists who are new to the field. - Submit Research That Reflects Broader Impact
Consider patient diversity, access, and relevance when designing and submitting your research.