We are thrilled to announce Jennifer French as the recipient of the 2024 Craig H. Neilsen Visionary Prize. This prestigious award honors individuals whose innovative work and dedication have significantly improved the quality of life for people living with spinal cord injury (SCI). Jennifer’s contributions to the SCI community exemplify the pioneering spirit and commitment that Craig H. Neilsen championed throughout his life. The Visionary Prize, accompanied by an unrestricted $1 million award, highlights her remarkable achievements and ongoing impact. The Visionary Prize honors Craig H. Neilsen’s relentless drive and commitment by recognizing individuals who embody his values of determination, innovation, and the ability to inspire others.
This year, as we honor Jennifer, Founder and Executive Director of the Neurotech Network, she has dedicated her life to advancing neurotechnology and improving the quality of life for people with SCI. After a snowboarding accident in 1998 left her paralyzed from the chest down, Jennifer refused to accept the limitations imposed on her. She participated in a clinical trial for an implanted device that stimulates her hip and leg muscles, enabling her to stand. Her determination not only helped her be upright under her own power but also advanced the technology for thousands of other potential recipients, including injured soldiers returning from war.
In her TED Talk, Jennifer emphasized the profound impact of technology, stating, “Enabling technologies like implanted devices and some very savvy external ones give people with disabilities the ability to partake in activities that they never were able to do before or that they miss so much. So, at the end of the day, it all comes down to how we treat each other as people, how we treat each other as human beings.” Her passion for inclusion and technological advancement shines through in her public speaking engagements, where she has inspired audiences at the National Academy of Sciences, the National Institutes of Health, and various TEDx events.
Jennifer’s influence extends beyond the technological realm. As an accomplished athlete, she won a silver medal in sailing for Team U.S.A. at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London. She co-founded the Warrior Sailing Program, providing wounded veterans with the opportunity to experience the freedom and empowerment that sailing offers. Jennifer’s efforts have significantly advanced the inclusion of people with disabilities in various fields, earning her the title of U.S. Sailing’s Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year. She has also been an outspoken advocate for engineering innovations to help people with spinal cord injuries, ensuring their voices are included within the research community.
The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation is honored to recognize Jennifer French for her tireless efforts and remarkable contributions. Her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those with SCI make her a deserving recipient of this year’s Visionary Prize. We look forward to witnessing her continued impact and supporting her future endeavors in transforming the landscape of spinal cord injury care and technology.
Discover the inspiring stories of our past Visionary Prize winners and their groundbreaking contributions to the SCI community here.