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Kessler Foundation Named Healthcare Hero in Four Categories by NJBIZ

The Kessler Foundation, a prominent nonprofit organization focusing on disability, has recently been recognized with several prestigious NJBIZ Healthcare Heroes Awards. The Foundation earned these accolades in four distinct categories: Innovation Hero, Workplace Wellness Hero, Education Hero, and Physician of the Year. These awards celebrate excellence and innovation while highlighting the contributions of individuals and organizations that significantly enhance healthcare quality in New Jersey.

Recognition for Exceptional Work

Rodger DeRose, Kessler Foundation’s president and chief executive officer, expressed gratitude for this significant recognition. He stated, "Receiving recognition from NJBIZ's Healthcare Heroes Awards is a tremendous honor. We take great pride in our collaborative efforts and dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of people with disabilities in New Jersey, across the U.S., and around the world."

Each award reflects the Foundation's commitment to advancing healthcare innovation and supporting individuals with disabilities and neurodiverse conditions.

Award Highlights

The Innovation Hero award went to the Kessler Foundation's Tim and Caroline Reynolds Center for Spinal Stimulation. This center has been transformative in the treatment and rehabilitation of spinal cord injuries, marking a historic achievement by being the first in New Jersey to implant an epidural stimulator in a patient with paralysis.

The Workplace Wellness Hero award was bestowed upon the Kessler Foundation's Center for Autism Research. This recognition acknowledges the center's work in enhancing workplace environments for neurodiverse individuals. A standout initiative is the Kessler Foundation Strength Identification and Expression (KF-STRIDE®) program, which assists autistic young adults in recognizing and articulating their strengths. The program aims to empower them during job interviews and in professional settings.

Honored with the Education Hero award, Dr. John DeLuca, senior vice president of Research and Training at Kessler Foundation and a professor at Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, has made significant contributions to shaping future leaders in rehabilitation research. His mentorship has been pivotal in influencing the career paths of countless aspiring professionals in the field.

Lastly, Physician of the Year recognition was awarded to Dr. Steven Kirshblum, the chief medical officer at Kessler Foundation and Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation. Dr. Kirshblum is not only celebrated for his expertise in spinal cord injury rehabilitation but also for conducting groundbreaking research that has earned him nationwide acclaim, including the notable reputation as