Walter J. Koroshetz, M.D. Appointed to Invisible Wounds Foundation Board
On March 18, 2026, the Invisible Wounds Foundation, a nonprofit organization headquartered in Chicago, announced a significant addition to its leadership team. Dr. Walter J. Koroshetz, M.D., who previously served as the director of the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), has been appointed to the Foundation’s board of directors and will also act as a senior advisor. This move underscores the Foundation’s commitment to addressing brain health issues, particularly for military service members who experience traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) due to exposure to blasts and concussive events.
Dr. Koroshetz has an extensive background in neurological research and advocacy. He joined NINDS in 2007 and has been integral in numerous initiatives, including the NIH’s BRAIN Initiative aimed at advancing neurotechnology and understanding brain function. His leadership also extended to the collaboration between NIH and the Uniformed Services University on research related to traumatic brain injuries and their impact.
Before his tenure at NINDS, Dr. Koroshetz gained significant experience as vice chair of the neurology service and director of stroke and neurointensive care services at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. His academic credentials include professorship at Harvard Medical School, where he played a vital role in neurology resident training, shaping the next generation of neurologists.
Expressing his enthusiasm about joining the Invisible Wounds Foundation, Dr. Koroshetz stated, "I'm thrilled to join the Board of the Invisible Wounds Foundation. The Foundation plays a critical role in addressing one of the most serious health issues facing our military service members—brain injuries caused by exposure to blasts and concussive events." He highlighted the importance of a coordinated research strategy supported by private sector investment to provide practical solutions that can benefit warfighters.
Shannon Finn Connell, Ph.D., the Founder and CEO of the Invisible Wounds Foundation, expressed profound gratitude for Dr. Koroshetz’s appointment, calling his expertise invaluable. She stated, "We are profoundly honored to have Dr. Koroshetz join the Invisible Wounds team. His knowledge and experience are essential as we strive to improve our methods for diagnosing and treating invisible brain injuries among service members and veterans."
Annually, the Department of Defense reports around 20,000 brain injuries among service members, emphasizing the urgent need for effective solutions. Since the onset of various conflicts tied to the Global War on Terrorism, it is estimated that over half a million U.S. service members have encountered brain injuries, with many remaining undiagnosed and untreated. This startling statistic highlights a public health crisis that necessitates immediate and effective intervention.
The Invisible Wounds Foundation is dedicated to safeguarding the brain health of American warriors through collaborative efforts with leading medical researchers, scientists, and government agencies. Its mission focuses on advancing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of traumatic brain injuries within the military context, especially targeting Special Operations Forces (SOF). Interested parties can learn more about the foundation's initiatives and ongoing projects by visiting their official website at www.invisiblewounds.org.
Dr. Koroshetz’s appointment is expected to propel the Foundation toward new advancements in brain health for military personnel, reinforcing its commitment to addressing the hidden injuries of war. With his extensive experience and deep commitment to neurological health, he will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the Foundation’s future directions and strategies.