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 that building a strong and welcoming scientific community begins with supporting the next generation of researchers. Major efforts include:

• TEAM (Training, Education, and Mentoring Committee)
  Originally WiNTR (Women in Neurotrauma Research), TEAM now supports all trainees in the field. It provides mentorship, career development, and resources to expand participation in neurotrauma research.
  More on TEAM
• Opportunity Travel Awards
  These awards support trainees who may face financial or logistical barriers to attending the annual NNS Symposium.
  Details
• WiNTR VISA Award
  This program helps early-career women researchers attend the annual meeting and visit sponsor labs to build new collaborations.
  Learn More
• New Collaborative Exchange Award
  Modeled after WiNTR VISA, this initiative will extend support to trainees and early-career researchers who have historically had fewer opportunities for professional exchange.
• Local Scholars Program
  Launched in 2022, this program brings undergraduate students from nearby institutions to the annual NNS Symposium, introducing them to research, mentoring, and career pathways in neurotrauma.

Pillar 2: Encouraging Broad Participation in Leadership

We recognize the value of having a leadership team that reflects a range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Recent efforts include:

• Creation of a Community Engagement Role on Council
  This dedicated position helps ensure that programs and decisions reflect the needs and strengths of our full membership.
  Meet the Council
• Updated Nomination Guidelines
  New practices are being developed to guide nominations for leadership roles and increase awareness of how members can participate.

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.