IBIA Award Winners

Robert D. Voogt Memorial Award

Dr. Philippe Azouvi

The International Brain Injury Association (IBIA) proudly announces Emeritus Professor Philippe Azouvi as the 2025 recipient of the prestigious Robert D. Voogt Memorial Award. This esteemed honor recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, clinical expertise, and dedication to advancing brain injury rehabilitation and research.

With over 30 years of experience, Professor Azouvi has made remarkable contributions to the field of acquired brain injury, particularly through his leadership as head of the Raymond Poincaré Hospital’s nationally recognized rehabilitation department in Garches, France (2005–2022) and as a member of the CESP research unit (University of Versailles Saint Quentin). Under his guidance, the department provided comprehensive, multidisciplinary care across the entire recovery continuum, from sub-acute rehabilitation to community reintegration programs. His work has been distinguished by a compassionate, patient-centered approach, with a special focus on cognitive rehabilitation, self-awareness, and functional recovery.

Beyond his clinical impact, Professor Azouvi has played a pivotal role in forensic assessment of brain injury-related impairments, influencing long-term patient outcomes. His commitment extends to advocacy and support for families, serving as a medical advisor for over two decades with UNAFTC (National Union of Family Associations of Persons with Traumatic Brain Injury) and co-founding the Paris Regional Brain Injury Network, where he served as chair for 12 years.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. John D. Corrigan

Dr. John D. Corrigan has been awarded the IBIA Lifetime Achievement Award for his transformative contributions to the brain injury field over the past four decades. A Professor Emeritus in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Dr. Corrigan has been a trailblazer advocating for the recognition of brain injury as a chronic condition. His groundbreaking research has illuminated the long-term effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and underscored the importance of ongoing care and management.

As Director of the Ohio Valley Center for Brain Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation since 1992, Dr. Corrigan has advanced the understanding of TBI’s evolving nature, particularly its links to neurodegeneration, comorbid conditions, and aging. His advocacy for integrating chronic disease management into brain injury care has reshaped medical paradigms globally. Beyond his academic contributions, Dr. Corrigan serves as National Research Director for the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) and Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation, ensuring his work reaches both clinical and policy-making audiences.

Jennett Plum Award

Professor Leanne Togher

Professor Leanne Togher has been honored with the IBIA Jennett Plum Award for her groundbreaking work in communication rehabilitation for individuals with TBI. Over a distinguished 30-year career, Professor Togher has pioneered innovative approaches to improve communication outcomes, particularly through her work on communication partner training. Her methods have empowered individuals with brain injuries and their families, transforming rehabilitation practices worldwide. Professor Togher is an NHMRC Investigator Grant Fellow (Level 3) and Professor at The University of Sydney in Australia. Professor Togher is also Chair of Brain Injury Australia.

With over 250 publications and $38 million in sustained grant funding, Professor Togher is celebrated as the most published speech-language pathologist in her field. Her leadership in developing international practice guidelines and her advocacy for evidence-based care have elevated the role of speech-language pathology in brain injury rehabilitation. Professor Togher’s impact extends globally, with collaborations across 124 institutions and her dedication to improving the quality of life for brain injury survivors.

Early Career Investigator Award

Dr. Justin E. Karr

Dr. Justin E. Karr, a rising star in the brain injury field, has received the IBIA Early Career Investigator Award. Currently serving as a clinical neuropsychologist and researcher at the University of Kentucky, Dr. Karr’s prolific career includes over 90 peer-reviewed publications and more than 125 conference presentations. His research spans symptom sequelae, cognitive functioning, and biomarkers of neurological injury, with a special focus on underserved populations such as older adults recovering from brain injuries and women impacted by brain injuries related to intimate partner violence (IPV).

Dr. Karr’s contributions to understanding TBI’s cognitive and psychological effects have been recognized in leading journals, including Journal of Neurotrauma and Psychological Bulletin. His innovative work continues to address critical gaps in brain injury research, offering new insights into diagnosis and intervention strategies.