Over the past month, the Chuck Noll Foundation for Brain Injury Research had the privilege of hosting three unforgettable evenings in West Palm Beach, Naples, and Charlotte—each one centered on connection, collaboration, and commitment to advancing brain health.
These gatherings brought together some of the brightest minds in neuroscience and sports medicine, alongside our board members, supporters, and community champions. Each event served as a powerful reminder that when passionate people unite around a common mission, real progress follows.
West Palm Beach | March 4, 2025
Hosted by Art Rooney II, Sean Rooney, Jerome Bettis, Merril Hoge, Chuck & Tracy Warden, and Scott Swank, the West Palm event offered an inspiring look at the impact of brain injury research and the foundation’s continued momentum.
We were honored to feature Dr. Joe Maroon, renowned neurosurgeon and CNF Scientific Advisory Chair, who shared insight into how far the field has come—and what lies ahead in our mission to better diagnose, treat, and prevent concussions.
Naples | March 20, 2025
In collaboration with Magee-Womens Research Institute, A Celebration of Women’s Health brought attention to the critical connection between women’s health and brain injury. Guests engaged directly with Magee scientists, learning about the latest research developments—including our $1 million initiative exploring the link between concussions and reproductive health.
We were honored to be joined by Dr. Shelly Timmons, a valued member of our National Scientific Advisory Committee, and CNF Board Member Russ Swank, whose support and leadership continue to help drive our mission forward. Their presence added to the depth and significance of the evening, and we are grateful for their continued dedication to advancing brain injury research.
One of the most impactful moments of the night came from Sam Carter, a courageous patient advocate who shared her powerful journey of recovery following a near-fatal traumatic brain injury.
On January 14th, Sam was the victim of a drunk driving accident that left her in a coma for nine days, with severe injuries including a shifted brain, a craniotomy, and months of rehabilitation. Her story of resilience—regaining mobility, speech, and independence far ahead of medical expectations—is nothing short of inspiring.
Sam reminded us all that behind every statistic and every study, there’s a human story—and hers underscores exactly why the work of the Chuck Noll Foundation matters. We were honored to have her with us.
Charlotte | April 3, 2025
Our most recent evening in Charlotte featured national scientific advisory board member Dr. Don Whiting, alongside Dr. Anthony Kontos, who is leading one of the Magee-Womens research studies funded by CNF.
We were thrilled to have board members Jerome Bettis and Merril Hoge in attendance, and extend our sincere thanks to Doug Lebda and Steve Cherok for their hospitality and support in hosting such a thoughtful and engaging evening.
Across all three events, a clear theme emerged: brain health is a team effort. From candid conversations to emerging partnerships, the energy in the room reflected the growing momentum behind our work.
To everyone who joined us—thank you. Your presence, support, and belief in the mission of the Chuck Noll Foundation are what power the future of brain injury research.
We’re just getting started.