BIAV Honors Executive Director’s 20th Year

The Brain Injury Association of Virginia (BIAV) is honoring Executive Director Anne McDonnell’s 20^th anniversary with the organization this month. The only statewide association dedicated exclusively to improving the lives of people impacted by brain injury in Virginia, BIAV has seen tremendous growth under Ms. McDonnell’s direction. “She is the epitome of leadership and excellence among the brain injury community and we are truly blessed to have her at the helm of leadership here at BIAV,” said BIAV’s Board President, Dr. Kelli Williams Gary.

Ms. McDonnell’s journey with BIAV began in 1987 when she started working at Camp Bruce McCoy, BIAV’s summer recreational camp for adults with brain injury. Several years later, she joined the organization as the Special Projects Director, and in 2006 was promoted to Executive Director. During her career serving the brain injury community, Ms. McDonnell played a pivotal role in increasing core “safety net” brain injury services funding by 415%. She also championed many successful legislative efforts, including return-to-learn protocols and ensuring crisis intervention teams are trained on brain injury. She has received numerous awards and accolades acknowledging her contributions and dedication to improving the lives of people impacted by brain injury.  

On June 24 at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, BIAV will recognize this important milestone at the association’s annual Legacy Celebration, a fundraising and public awareness event honoring advocates and trailblazers working to serve Virginians impacted by brain injury. The event will also honor Joann Mancuso with the Weinstock Award, Delegate Tony Wilt with the Legislator of the Year Award, Dr. Jeffrey Kreutzer with the Legacy Award, and Malvina Sandidge-Penn with the Member of the Year Award. The Legacy Celebration is proudly sponsored by four Mission Partners: Breit Cantor Grana Buckner, Tree of Life Services, Brain Injury Law Center, and NeuroRestorative.

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About The Brain Injury Association of Virginia: The Brain Injury Association of Virginia is the primary source of information and personal support for thousands of individuals, families, and professionals living in Virginia whose lives have been touched by a life‐altering, often devastating brain injury. The mission of the Association is to advance education, awareness, support, treatment and research to improve the quality of life for all people affected by brain injury. For more information visit biav.net.