Changing the lives of people with disabilities
You step up when it matters most
2025 IMPACT REPORT
One step. Then two. And suddenly, aking those first steps isn’t always easy. It requires commitment, patience, and, oftentimes, a leap of faith. But we challenge ourselves, knowing that the outcome is worth every effort.
Thanks to your support, Kessler Foundation is building
This is the path we take to discovery, innovation, and progress—step after step—with you by our side.
logical and developmental disabilities. This, in turn, is
scientific knowledge and expanding understanding of traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, autism, and other neuroleading to the breakthroughs that transform lives.
Re s e a r
page
Kn
ow
gnified
ma
is
6 12
page
r
ri e
ives
Bar
ha
page
page
is
10
ll
Yo u c
Re l i e f
page
fa
8 el
y s e m e r ge
s
s
ng
pa
wa
y
page
New
th
er
exp and
re s t s
2
v Disco
ge
er
page
4
d le
n
ev
What’s inside:
ch
on
th
ew
ay
14
a world of possibility opens. Because you step up, rehabilitation is being redefined. And now, amid the greater uncertainties we face today, we are grateful to have you walking this path with us—taking generous strides to help ensure a future of hope and progress.
On behalf of Kessler Foundation...
Thank you.
Rodger DeRose
President and CEO
F
f un
o r eve r yo n e
page
20
Michele Pignatello
Vice President and Chief Development Officer
BECAUSE YOU STEP UP, NEW PATHWAYS EMERGE
Stimulating progress E pidural spinal stimulation is one of the most promising breakthroughs in spinal cord injury rehabilitation in decades.
Thanks to support from the Joseph and Cheryl Marino Family Foundation, the Reynolds Foundation, and you, Kessler Foundation’s Tim and Caroline Reynolds Center for Spinal Stimulation is the first in New Jersey to explore this technique, which aims to reactivate damaged neural pathways. “The goal,” says Gail Forrest, PhD, director of the Reynolds Center, “is to help people with spinal cord injury live more independently and thrive.” Living with a spinal cord injury means so much more than not being able to walk. Common complications include impaired respiratory, cardiovascular, urinary, bowel, and hand function, along with issues such as spasticity, pain, pressure injuries, osteoporosis, and bone fractures.
Epidural stimulation involves surgically implanting a stimulator directly over the spinal cord. By combining this targeted stimulation with focused training, spinal circuits below the injury can begin to function more like they did before the injury, helping the nervous system interpret important sensory signals 2
related to specific activities and enabling movements previously impossible.
Scientists at the Reynolds Center are investigating how this technique helps people regain lost function and voluntary movement. “We are leading global efforts to revolutionize the outlook for people with spinal cord injury,” says Steven Kirshblum, MD, co-director of the Reynolds Center hanks to donor and chief support, “we are medical officer challenging the notion at Kessler that spinal cord injury Foundation is incurable,” says and Kessler Institute for Dr. Gail Forrest Rehabilitation. (standing, left). “With the continued generosity of our donors, we are bridging the gap between brain and body caused by spinal cord injury, and challenging the longstanding perception that it is incurable,” concludes Dr. Forrest.
Making connections Participating in the study, led by Dr. Claudia Angeli (center), makes Walt Schumacher (below) feel that “I’m part of a solution.”
In April 2024, Walt Schumacher, a process engineer and national offroad motorcycle racer, sustained a spinal cord injury during a trip to Moab with his dad and friends. In November, he became the first person in New Jersey to undergo epidural implant surgery as part of a National Institutes of Health-funded initiative led by Claudia Angeli, PhD, assistant director of the Reynolds Center. Since his surgery, Walt has been working daily with Dr. Angeli and the Reynolds Center team. “It’s a lot of hard work, but the Kessler Foundation team is incredible and putting in tremendous effort alongside me as I strive to regain function. Even if my progress is modest, I’m part of a solution that will ultimately help everyone with spinal cord injury,” shares Walt. “Walt is helping us expand our understanding of spinal cord epidural stimulation and its benefits as we work to increase access to this life-changing technology,” notes Dr. Angeli. 3
A legacy of leadership We recognize the passing of three visionaries whose grace, integrity, and sense of purpose left an indelible mark on our organization, our communities, and the field of medical rehabilitation. Rocco “Rocky” Ortenzio, co-founder of Select Medical, whose collaboration and generous gift transformed research at our neuroimaging center that bears his name Congressman William “Bill” Pascrell, Jr., who championed the rights of brain injury survivors and secured federal funding for research, treatment, and prevention Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr., who advocated for rehabilitation research and helped earmark federal funds for the Foundation’s 4
groundbreaking studies
BECAUSE YOU STEP UP, DISCOVERY IS MAGNIFIED
A clearer picture our support delivered an AI-powered upgrade to our MRI capacity, giving scientists cutting-edge tools to drive breakthrough research. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been the cornerstone of the Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center at Kessler Foundation since its opening in 2013. This powerful, non-invasive technology enables our research scientists to capture three-dimensional images of the brain, spinal cord, nerves, muscles, and other soft tissues. This capability is crucial for gathering objective evidence of changes resulting from rehabilitation interventions. Thanks to your generosity and the support of public and private sponsors, the Ortenzio Center upgraded its MRI scanner in October 2024. Now, with the most advanced technology at hand, Kessler Foundation researchers have access to more detailed images, objective metrics, and efficient data collection and analysis. “This improved MRI scanner significantly elevates our research capacity, and we’re excited about its potential,” says Glenn Wylie, DPhil, Ortenzio Center director.
“In addition to performing both structural and functional MRIs, we can leverage the scanner’s unique new features—built-in artificial intelligence, biometrics, and sophisticated imaging controls—to gain deeper insights,” continues Dr. Wylie. For example, the scanner allows researchers to examine the structure and composition of the brain, as well as assess how different brain regions respond when a person performs specific tasks. Kessler Foundation scientists utilize biometric technology to customize scans, enabling the identification and measurement of specific individual characteristics. Adding artificial intelligence brings another dimension to understanding and interpreting research findings. Study participants benefit from specialized sensors that monitor their vital signs throughout the scanning process, ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience. Detachable tables and other equipment add-ons facilitate setup, particularly for individuals with limited mobility.
B
ecause of your support, we have the opportunity—
and the technology—to conduct
groundbreaking research into traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, aging, and Parkinson’s disease, and their related issues with pain, fatigue, memory, and speech, notes Dr. Glenn Wylie (below). “And we’re dedicated to translating what we learn to improve outcomes.”
5
BECAUSE YOU STEP UP, KNOWLEDGE EXPANDS
Learning time D
oes the timing of feedback impact retention and recall? A new donor-funded study offers a resounding “Yes!” We’ve all heard the phrase that “timing is everything.” Now, a unique pilot study on learning and memory in people with Parkinson’s disease—made possible by your support—is proving that timing is, indeed, a key factor. The study, led by Ekaterina Dobryakova, PhD, assistant director of neuroscience research in the Center for Traumatic Brain Injury Research, is examining how the timing of feedback impacts the ability of a person with Parkinson’s to process, retain, and recall new information. “Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder affecting more than one million people nationwide,” says Dr. Dobryakova.
6
Dr. Ekaterina Dobryakova speculates that changes in dopamine—a brain chemical that regulates movement and mood— may also affect thinking.
“It is typically associated with tremors and balance issues. However, the same chemical changes in the brain that lead to motor challenges may also result in cognitive impairment in more than 40 percent of this population,” she adds. Using a computer-based program, study participants were tasked with learning 180 unrelated word pairs, such as “cat” and “mug.” They then went back and attempted to identify the correct pairs in the list. Feedback as to whether their responses were correct or not was provided at three different intervals: immediately for one 60-word set, with a six-minute delay for the second, and after 25 minutes for the third.
Climb on! When John Rosiak was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2023,
“We found that retention and recall improve when feedback is delayed for about 25 minutes,” explains Dr. Dobryakova. “In other words, it appears that a long delay may help persons with Parkinson’s learn new information, which leads us to the next step in this investigation.”
he didn’t despair—he took action. He searched for programs, studies, and clinical trials to help him understand and manage the condition. He’s participated in 15 studies, including one that led him to “Up ENDing Parkinson’s,” a
R
ock star John Rosiak, a study participant, believes, “In research lies hope.”
unique rock climbing program. “In the world of neurological rehabilitation, exercise is medicine,” says John. “And climbing pushes me both physically and cognitively.” John also joined Dr. Dobryakova’s Parkinson’s study on learning, which he admits was a challenging but
With your continued support, researchers are hoping to use functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine the changes that take place in the brain when learning based on feedback given at different times.
valuable experience. “I don’t see
“Your commitment to Parkinson’s research will translate to more effective timing and delivery of therapeutic interventions, and, for that, we are all grateful,” adds Dr. Dobryakova.
John is grateful for the support of
myself as just a study participant. I view myself as a partner in advancing scientific knowledge.” donors like you who share his commitment to enhancing quality of life for people with Parkinson’s. 7
Quick study “Participating in Kessler Foundation research has given me a new purpose in life,” says Norman Lim (right), who sustained a traumatic
BECAUSE YOU STEP UP, RESEARCH NEVER RESTS
Tapping into napping
brain injury in a car accident 10 years ago. “After my injury, I struggled with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges, but I was inspired to do something meaningful… something that could help others.” Since then, Norman has participated in 15 studies, including Dr. Lequerica’s current nap investigation. “I am so appreciative of the opportunity to contribute to the science of rehabilitation,” he says. A former IT analyst and self-described “gearhead,” Norman is especially grateful to the donors who make these studies possible. “Please know that every gift makes a difference. Thank you for your support.” 8
S
leep’s impact on learning among people with a traumatic brain injury has rarely been investigated—until now.
Sleep is essential to our physical, emotional, and cognitive health. Numerous studies have shown that, among its many benefits, sleep, including daytime naps, facilitates learning in neurologically intact individuals. However, the impact of sleep on learning among people with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) has rarely been studied. The findings may change how and when therapies are delivered in the rehabilitation setting. Led by Anthony Lequerica, PhD, senior research scientist in the Center for Traumatic Brain Injury Research, a team of researchers hypothesized that periods of rest would enhance the ability of people with TBI to intake, retain, and recall new information. “Using various tools and technologies, we were able to measure how well individuals with TBI learned a new task and determine which areas of the brain were activated during the process,” notes Dr. Lequerica.
Study participants were placed in the MRI scanner at the Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center and asked to perform a new motor sequence learning exercises: a series of 30-second finger taps in a designated pattern, each followed by a 30-second rest. Participants who were assigned to the “wake” group then watched a 45-minute documentary about outer space, while members of the “sleep” group took a nap in a dark, cozy room.
When retested, the wake group showed little or no change, but the sleep group significantly improved their performance and demonstrated greater neural efficiency, meaning that less brain energy was used to complete the task. “The implications of this pilot study are tremendous,” says Dr. Lequerica. “Although further investigation is needed to understand the best way to incorporate this into practice, these findings suggest that allowing for nap time after intensive physical or occupational therapy sessions may lead to greater improvement in motor skills and independence in people with TBI. And it’s the support of donors like you who make these advancements possible.”
N
aps after therapy may lead to “greater
improvement in motor skills and independence in people with TBI,” says Dr. Anthony Lequerica (above). “The implications of this pilot study are tremendous.”
9
BECAUSE YOU STEP UP, BARRIERS FALL
Opportunity knocks
M
ore people with disabilities are working than ever before. Could the strong numbers represent a new normal? Over the past 18 months, employment rates for individuals with disabilities have reached record highs. Reports from early 2025 show that these numbers are holding steady, suggesting a possible “new normal” for people with disabilities in the workforce. That is according to the National Trends in Disability Employment (nTIDE), a monthly research report run by Kessler Foundation and the University of New Hampshire’s Institute on Disability since 2008.
Dr. John O’Neill (right) says the data show more employers recognize the value in hiring people with disabilities.
10
Your support, along with a federal grant from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, helps fund studies that track employment trends and explore new ways to create job opportunities for people with disabilities. Although these individuals encounter more obstacles in finding jobs, employers are becoming more open to hiring them, and workplace policies are improving. According to nTIDE experts, the rise in job opportunities may be due to key trends, including more remote work, greater workplace flexibility, and an overall push for inclusion.
Serving up confidence The National Restaurant Association, The job market has changed dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic shook the nation five years ago. For people with disabilities, these changes have created new pathways to jobs and professional growth. “The strong job numbers show that more employers recognize the value of hiring people with disabilities. The pandemic changed work culture in a way that has made it easier for people with disabilities to succeed,” says John O’Neill, PhD, director of the Center for Employment and Disability Research at Kessler Foundation.
“By investing in our research, donors like you are assisting in making workplaces more inclusive,” Dr. O’Neill asserts. “Thanks to your generosity, Kessler Foundation continues to break down barriers and build a stronger future for workers with disabilities.”
through a pilot program funded by Kessler Foundation, prepares people with disabilities to enter the food services industry. For Emily (left), the “Restaurant Ready” training, made possible through your generous support, did more than help her land a job; it gave her the confidence to succeed. Emily is now employed as a food service worker in the dietary department at a nursing home in Delaware. “I like making new friends and learning new things,” she says. “Everyone here is nice and they show me how to do things I am unsure of. I enjoy my job very much.” Over the past two years, the program has trained 200 individuals, and 55 employers have hired graduates across three states—Delaware, Colorado, and Michigan.
2015-2024 Avg. Monthly Employment-to-Population Ratio People with Disabilities Aged 16-64
11
Piloting innovation All scientific research starts with an idea. And pilot studies provide a platform for those ideas to take flight. These small investigations allow researchers to test a hypothesis and demonstrate its feasibility and real-world value, serving as a “proof-of-concept.” Pilot studies also evaluate important factors such as research protocols, recruitment strategies, data collection, and analysis— all essential for establishing a foundation for larger clinical trials. Your generous support funds pilot studies across Kessler Foundation, jumpstarting innovation and advancing discovery. Our scientists use the data gathered from these studies to secure funding for larger
BECAUSE YOU STEP UP, RELIEF IS ON THE WAY
Shock to the system C an extracorporeal shockwave therapy alleviate joint pain?
Over 53 million Americans are living with arthritis, a painful, degenerative joint disease that can limit function and mobility, and significantly impact quality of life. Now, researchers at the DerfnerLieberman Laboratory for Regenerative Rehabilitation Research at Kessler Foundation are exploring an innovative approach to easing this joint pain. Trevor Dyson-Hudson, MD, director of the Center for Spinal Cord Injury Research, and Nathan Hogaboom, PhD, research scientist, co-direct the Derfner-Lieberman Lab. They are adapting a procedure known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy to help restore damaged joints.
Originally used to break up kidney stones, this non-invasive treatment sends targeted, high-energy sound waves to affected areas in the joints, specifically to regions containing blood vessels known as bone marrow lesions, to promote healing.
“Thanks to the Derfner Foundation for their generosity in establishing this unique lab and their funding of a pilot study that seeks to determine if and how high-frequency sound waves can safely reduce inflammation in the bone marrow of damaged joints, decrease pain, and improve function,” acknowledges Dr. Dyson-Hudson.
scale research initiatives that lead to improvements in rehabilitative care. 12
“We are breaking new ground in arthritis treatment,” says Dr. Trevor Dyson-Hudson (left), “thanks to the support of donors like you.”
The current study focuses on arthritis of the knee, the largest and most complex joint in the human body. Age, overuse, injury, obesity, and other factors can contribute to the development of arthritic knees, making this a common but challenging condition to treat. Replacement surgery with its lengthy recovery period is often the only option.
Equally promising is the potential of this treatment to relieve spasticity, plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other conditions related to joint, tissue, and nerve damage. “Your support is the catalyst to advancing our regenerative rehabilitation research, and for that, we are grateful,” says Dr. Hogaboom.
That’s one reason Dr. Hogaboom expresses excitement about this nonsurgical approach: “We aim to help people maintain a mobile and active lifestyle for as long as possible.”
his non-surgical approach “holds promise for many other conditions,” says Dr. Nathan Hogaboom (right).
13
2024 KESSLER SOCIETY: THANK YOU FOR STEPPING UP
You change lives our support empowers groundbreaking rehabilitation research and employment for people with disabilities. As a Kessler Society member, you continue the illustrious legacy of Henry H. Kessler, MD, PhD, who founded Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation after serving in World War II. His vision was “…to treat the whole individual…to help people successfully regain physical, mental, social, vocational, and economic usefulness to the fullest possible degree.” Thanks to your generosity, people with disabilities can restore their function and mobility, improve cognition, and secure meaningful jobs and careers. Kessler Society membership is extended to friends who make annual gifts totaling $500 or more to Kessler Foundation. We’re proud to recognize these individuals, families, and organizations in our 2024 honor roll. Thank you for your shared vision and commitment.
14
Champions $100,000+
The Derfner Foundation Provincia Tapia LLC Tim and Caroline Reynolds / The Reynolds Foundation Sea Grape Foundation Understood for All, Inc. Anonymous
Ambassadors
Benefactors
Patrons
Joy and Avi Avidan
Myrna and Leonard Comerchero / Selma T. and Jacques H. Mitrani Foundation
The Brave Heart Foundation
The Walter Henry Freygang Foundation
Francine and Michael Davis
$25,000-$99,999 Baylor Biosciences, Inc. The Carson Family Charitable Trust Jane and Joseph Concato Gibbons P.C.
$10,000-$24,999
Ellen and John Germain Dr. and Mrs. A. R. Giaquinto
Terri and Michael Goldberg
Lesley and Neil Greenstein
Dean Janeway Endowment Fund at New Jersey Health Foundation
Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, Inc. Liz and David Lowenstein
MaryAnn and Dean Janeway
Myriad Canada
Christine and Robert Kleinert
Noreen and Richard Oelkers
David Legow and Sarit Catz
Carol and Mark Pollard
Stuart and Leslie Milsten
Glenn M. and Marilyn B. Reiter
Morgan Stanley
Lindsey and Tyler Rhoten
Lisa J. Peterson and Daniel J. Peterson
Richard and Linda Ritholz
Reitman Foundation
Marion and Michael Saffer
VIA Institute on Character
Ellen Salsburg
Wakefern Food Corporation
Erin and David Schonbraun
Wallerstein Foundation for Geriatric Life Improvement
Susan and Guy Tufo Anonymous
$5,000-$9,999 Crewcial Partners LLC Ellen and Rodger DeRose Shirley and Marty Diamond Carol and Lawrence Gelber William Gilman Alyce C. Halchak, Esq. Linda D. Howard Rhona and George Jacobs Gerald C. Legow Mandelbaum Barrett, PC Sean Masterson Mary Anne McDonald and Joseph F. Benning Mary Rose Migliazza, Esq. and Carl Guzzo, Jr. Novartis Corporation The Philip W. Riskin Charitable Foundation Andrew Rubenstein James J. Ryan Lyn Rosensweig and Bruce Schnelwar Saul M. Simon Sunrise ShopRite, Inc. Thomas and Mieke Venino
“Rehabilitation is the precious gift of hope translated into action.”
Mary Lou and Bill Weisser
15
2024 KESSLER SOCIETY
Sponsors
Alan and Marion Garfield
Wendy and Nikhil Minocha
Diane and Saverio Garruto
Mobius Mobility
Edith and Michael Gelfand Foundation Inc.
Josie and Jeffrey Morris
Marc Gerber
Maria Moser-Meister
Getty Images
Jayashree and Mohan Naik
Thomas P. Giblin
Kirstjen Nielsen
Cherie Giraud
NK Architects
Susan Goodin
Northeast Capital Group
Jeanne Gorman
Numotion Foundation
Michael Haydinger
Shay O’Neil
Louis V. Henston
Mustapha Osuman
Norma Hernandez
Therese and Thomas Paragano
Bret Hirsh and Amanda Kate Hirsh
Petry Engineering LLC
The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey
Michele Pignatello and Daniel Cordasco
Integra Foundation
Gretchen and Sanford Prater
Lynn and Douglas Borck
Susan Rosenthal-Jay and Mark Jay
Randi and Rob Rudnick
Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation Matching Gift Program
Jewish Vocational Service of MetroWest
Sara-Ann and Robert Sanders
Elaine and Dan Katz
Susan and Richard Sandler
Betty Ann and Jack Cannell
Mary Kennon
Robert and Roberta Silman
Sidney Church
Anna and Steven Kirshblum
Ronald Slevin
Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
Karin and John Kukral
Stephanie and Warren Spar
The Cormac Group
Susan Larnerd
Seth R. Stoller, MD
Gayle L. Czeizler
Nancy and John O. Lasser
Jane and Leo Swergold
Dr. John DeLuca and Mrs. Carmen Fritsche DeLuca
Peter Lasser and Cynthia Potter
Ilene K. Tamburri
Timothy Dineen
Lincoln Financial Foundation
Chris and Philip Taylor
Tobey Lipschitz
TD Bank
Margarita and Castor Losada
Vander Sterre Brothers Construction
Elberon Development Group
The Margetts Foundation / Donna and Tom Margetts
Velochair Company LLC
Aaron Essner
MarshMcLennan
Sean Flaherty
Patricia and Winslow Marston
Wellspect Healthcare
Fox Rothschild LLP
Celeste Maslovsky
Dr. Bruce M Gans and Mrs. Linda Gans
Diane and Nicholas Masucci
$1,000-$4,999 ABC Medical Anne and Victor Ammons Laurence S. Aronson Henry and Diana Asher Linda Bacha Ballem Family Foundation Martin Barber Brian Barringer Kerry and Brian Barringer Mehmed Bayram Thomas W. Berry and Theresa A. Berry / Berry Family Fund Peter J. Bondy
Trevor Dyson-Hudson, MD Ekso Bionics
16
Eleonore and Russell McCabe
Wandercraft Withum Margaret and Paul Zeuner Anonymous
Members
$500-$999 Mrs. Joan Alberto Bayshore Recycling Corp. Debra and Jonathan Bell Julius M. Blatt Karen and Raymond Blau Cassandra and Scott Bollinger Josh Breighner Tracy R. Cate CBRE Nancy and Nicholas Chiaravalloti Deborah and Christopher Corsico CTR Services, Inc. Cushman & Wakefield Steven Diamond Mrs. Alice Dillon Joseph Falkenstein FannieMae Foundation Jennifer and Andrew Gandolfo Amy and Jeffrey Halper Craig Hirsh Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey David Jarvis Johnson & Johnson Foundation Matching Gifts Program Punam and Satish Kashyap Elizabeth Anne Keat Jane and Andy Kessler Sue Kida Mike Kolster
Mrs. Blanche Lerner Anthony Lightner Larry and Merle Lomrantz Leslie and Barry Mandelbaum The Margetts Foundation / Donna and Tom Margetts Matia Mobility Joseph Maurillo Mr. Neal Myrick Jeremiah J. Nelson, Jr. NJM Insurance Group Permobil Foundation Catherine and Vincent Pignatello Premio Foods, Inc. PSEG, Inc. Right at Home of Essex County Albert E. Roemer, Jr. Harmandip Sandhu Rojon
Matching Gift Organizations In 2024, civic-minded organizations generously matched gifts made by individual donors. Bank of New York Mellon Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation CBRE FannieMae Foundation The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey Johnson & Johnson Foundation Matching Gifts Program Lincoln Financial Foundation Novartis Corporation Pfizer Foundation Total Quality Logistics UPS Foundation
Donald N. Schatz Ms. Carmen Sutter Owen M. Toolen III Esther and Rinaldo Toporovsky Richard Travia The UPS Foundation Volkswagen The Wawa Foundation Jeffrey Way West Orange Democratic County Committee Guang Yue, PhD and Nancy Yue Donald and Joan Zief Anonymous
Donald and Ellen Legow
17
Fundraisers In 2024, inspired leaders raised funds to champion research and employment for people with disabilities. Ghaith Androwis Sol Atencio Peter Barrance Olga Boukrina Joshua Breighner Melissa Bristol Katie Broderick Rachel Byrne Tracy Carson Daniela Cassano Nancy Chiaravalloti Jane Concato Sharon Cross Christina Dandola Erin Davis Lindsay Dodge Trevor Dyson-Hudson Naphtaly Ehrenberg Karen Ferrara Gabriella Franchino Denise Fyffe Helen Genova Samantha Good Carl Gropper
18
Legacy Circle
David Margolis Lisa Peterson
Pat Kinsey
We are grateful to these friends who have included Kessler Foundation in their estate plans.
Maria LaQuaglia
John J. Brauss, Jr.
Ellen Salsburg
Jeannie Lengenfelder
Vincent Comperatore
Dara Sblendorio
Michelle Lopez
Jane and Joseph Concato
Leighann Martinez
David Legow
Nancy Moore
Barbara and Gary Lewis
Lauren Murphy
Kenneth P. Middleton
Shelby Nielsen
Deborah Perelmuter
Karen Nolan
Glenn M. and Marilyn B. Reiter
Trustees Emeriti
Ryan Perry
Joanne and Fred Salzmann
John R. Cannell
Lisa Peterson
James A. Schmitt
Richard C. Fowler, Jr.
Suchir Pongurlekar
Stephen G. Sudovar
Alexander R. Giaquinto
Katarina Reduzzi
Guy Tufo
Rosalie Hannigan Jesse Henshaw Kiran K
Jacob Richards Robert Rudnick Megan Rusco
Daniel Sullivan
Lawrence J. Gelber
Guang Yue Jeanne Zanca
Thomas M. Venino, Jr. C. William Weisser Diane Zezza
Robert H. Herz
Barbara Lewis
Joseph Carnevale Rodger L. DeRose
Corinne Woeste
Guy M. Tufo
Trustees
Manuela Soto Restrepo
Kathy Woeste
Saul Simon
Dean Janeway
Michael P. Davis
Lauri Wactlar
Michael Saffer
Anonymous
Angela Smith
Carolina Tejada
Helen Mazarakis
William Gilman Terri Goldberg Neil Greenstein Alyce C. Halchak Michael Herz George H. Jacobs David Legow
John O. Lasser Elizabeth Lowenstein W. Thomas Margetts Antonia S. Marotta-Brinton Mary Anne McDonald Mark L. Pollard Glenn M. Reiter Wendy M. Richman Bruce Schnelwar Allen J. Sinisgalli Stephen G. Sudovar
To learn more about the research that your support makes possible, visit KesslerFoundation.org/giving or scan the code ►
$25,000
$15,000
Sponsors one research participant with spinal cord injury in a transcutaneous spinal stimulation study
Sponsors one research participant with brain injury, stroke, or MS in a study to restore mobility using a robotic exoskeleton
$10,000
Sponsors one research participant in a study exploring new treatments using regenerative rehabilitation
$7,500
$5,000
Sponsors one research participant with brain injury or MS in a study to improve thinking, learning, and memory
Sponsors one research participant in a study to improve quality of life after spinal cord injury
Every gift makes a difference $5,000
$3,000
$2,500
$1,000
Sponsors one research participant in a study to treat hidden disabilities after stroke
Covers the cost of one study’s Institutional Review Board approval, required to protect research participants
Underwrites a functional MRI scan and analysis to determine changes in the brain or spinal cord
Covers the cost of one study’s Institutional Review Board renewal
$500
Covers the cost of recruiting a research participant
19
20
Come to Fall Fest 2025! Sunday, Sept. 21 Noon-3:00 PM Kessler Campus West Orange NJ Visit kesslerfoundation.org/fall-fest or scan code to learn more.
K
essler Foundation’s Fall Fest 2024 was a celebration of accessibility and inclusion. The festivities brought together people with disabilities, their caregivers and families, and our communities for a day of fun, food, and friendship to champion rehabilitation research and employment equity. One-hundred percent of every dollar you gave means more is possible—more life-changing research, more progress, and more opportunities for all. 21
Changing the lives of people with disabilities
120 Eagle Rock Avenue, Suite 100 East Hanover, NJ 07936-3147 tel. 973.324.8430 | fax 973.386.1361 @KesslerFoundation | @KesslerFdn @KesslerFdn | @Kessler-Foundation @KesslerFoundation @KesslerFoundation KesslerFoundation.org
Thank you