Pittsburgh, November 18, 2024 -- Joseph Maroon, MD, Heindl Scholar in Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, along with Mark Lovell, PhD, founding director of the UPMC Sports Concussion Program, received the first-ever Legends of Excellence Award from The Chuck Noll Foundation for Brain Injury Research at the foundation’s inaugural Legends Unite event, held November 18 at Acrisure Stadium’s Hall of Honor Museum in Pittsburgh. The award honored Drs. Maroon and Lovell for their groundbreaking contributions to concussion and brain injury research.
Dr. Maroon, a world-renowned neurosurgeon and chair of the foundation’s National Science Advisory Committee, has been instrumental in advancing neuroscience, serving as a neurological consultant for the National Footbal League's Pittsburgh Steelers and World Wrestling Entertainment. Teaming up with Dr. Lovell, the two co-created the ImPACT Test—a transformative tool in diagnosing and managing brain injuries, fulfilling a vision originally inspired by legendary Steelers coach Chuck Noll.
“Recognizing the individuals at the forefront of brain injury research is at the heart of what this foundation stands for,” said Chuck Noll Foundation chair Art Rooney II. “Dr. Maroon and Dr. Lovell are not just pioneers; they’ve fundamentally changed how we approach player safety and brain health, from the NFL and NHL to school sports and everyday activities. Their work has saved lives and set the standard for excellence.”
Dr. Maroon, in accepting the award said, “Coach Chuck Noll challenged us to come up with objective data to know when a player is actually safe to return to play. His foresight set us on the path to better diagnosis and treatment of brain injuries.” Dr. Maroon concluded by saying how honored he was to receive the award.
“This could only happen in Pittsburgh,” said Dr. Lovell, referring to the city’s leadership in brain injury research. “In addition to the creation of the ImPACT test, which has now reached 25 million tests on athletes of all levels, UPMC’s concussion center sees over 20,000 concussed patients from across the country each year. This award means a great deal to me for the part I may have played in player safety.”
The Legends Unite event—attended by numerous former Pittsburgh Steeler greats, influential donors, and leading scientists—marked a celebration of achievements, a call to action, and a tribute to coach Noll’s legacy of excellence and innovation. With the Legends of Excellence Award now established, the Chuck Noll Foundation is set to inspire and recognize future trailblazers dedicated to advancing brain health and safety.
For additional information, please contact:
Anna Havrilla
412-913-3343
ahavrilla@chucknollfoundation.org