The Women’s Board of Barrow Neurological Foundation was named CommonSpirit Health’s 2026 Philanthropist of the Year! This historic recognition marks the first time CommonSpirit Health has presented the award to a collective group, celebrating the Women’s Board’s extraordinary and sustained impact on neuroscience research. Since its establishment in 1965, this remarkable group of volunteers has raised over $135 million to advance life-saving discoveries, culminating in $11.4 million raised through the 2026 Barrow Grand Ball, which supported 30 critical programs at Barrow Neurological Institute.
A Legacy of Giving: Over Half a Century of Impact
Since its establishment in 1965, the Women’s Board has been an indispensable part of Barrow Neurological Institute’s success. Paul Richardson, CFRE, FAHP, System Senior Vice President for Major Gifts, Campaigns, and Engagement at CommonSpirit Health, honored their dedication:
“We cannot think of a group of volunteers, civil servants, and leaders more deserving of recognition for consistently giving of their time, talents, and treasure in meaningful ways to support our foundation over such an extended period since its establishment in 1965.” – Paul Richardson
This group of powerhouse fundraisers, currently comprising 82 steadfast philanthropists, has cultivated a remarkable legacy, raising over $135 million to date. These funds directly fuel critical neuroscience research, pushing the boundaries of medical discovery and improving countless lives.
Record-Breaking Philanthropy in FY25
The Women’s Board continues to elevate its impact, achieving a monumental milestone in fiscal year 2025. They successfully raised an astounding $14.4 million through the generosity of 290 individual donors. These vital contributions supported over 30 programs at Barrow Neurological Institute.
Dionne Najafi, 2024-2025 Women’s Board Chair, expressed her gratitude:
“What an incredible honor it is to receive Common Spirit Health’s Philanthropist of the Year Award. For 60 years, the Women’s Board has helped fuel the Barrow Neurological Institute’s most ambitious ideas by raising over $135 million to advance life-saving neuroscience research.” – Dionne Najafi
Beyond Funding: Endowments and Education
The Women’s Board’s strategic philanthropic efforts have led to significant long-term investments in the future of Barrow, including:
- Endowed chairs
- Fellowship programs
- A dedicated nursing fund that has advanced the training, education, and certification of over 400 nurses.
In 2006, the Women’s Board began a tradition of funding specific research projects on behalf of its members. These projects are carefully chosen to highlight key areas of innovative research at Barrow that make a measurable impact on patients’ lives. Katie Mueller, 2025-2026 Women’s Board Chair, highlights their ongoing commitment and selection of this year’s special project:
“We were proud to build on last year’s momentum, selecting the Ivy Brain Tumor Center as this year’s Women’s Board Project, continuing a two-decade tradition that has already invested $16 million towards groundbreaking research through the Barrow Grand Ball.” – Katie Mueller
Research, Community, and Care
The Women’s Board’s enduring dedication to a comprehensive model of philanthropy continues to make a monumental difference for Barrow clinicians, researchers, physicians, and, most importantly, patients and families living with debilitating neurological conditions.
Nancy Bussani, Chief Philanthropy Officer of CommonSpirit Health and President of CommonSpirit Health Foundation, reflects on the broader impact of philanthropy, underscoring the lasting significance of such dedication:
“Each person, each team, and each volunteer celebrated today has really left their mark. And it’s not just on CommonSpirit philanthropy, but it’s on the lives of the patients and the families who felt seen, who because of you are supported and cared for.” – Nancy Bussani
Barrow Neurological Foundation extends its deepest congratulations and heartfelt gratitude to the Women’s Board for their remarkable achievements and their unwavering commitment. Their extraordinary efforts embody the spirit of humankindness and compassion, building connection and hope for countless individuals affected by neurological conditions.
Women’s Board Key Achievements Highlighted in this Article:
- Historic Philanthropist of the Year Award: First group to receive CommonSpirit Health’s award.
- Established in 1965: Over 60 years of continuous dedicated service.
- Over $135 Million Raised: Fueling cutting-edge neuroscience research.
- Record-Breaking FY25: Raised $14.4 million for 30 programs.
- 82 Active Members: A powerful collective of passionate philanthropists.
- Six Endowed Chairs & One Fellowship Program: Securing future leadership and research.
- Nursing Fund Impact: Supporting training and continuing education
- Ivy Brain Tumor Center Support: Over $11 million raised through the 2026 Barrow Grand Ball.
About Barrow Neurological Foundation
Barrow Neurological Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Barrow Neurological Institute – an international leader in the treatment, research, and education of brain and spinal diseases, conditions, and injuries. When you donate to Barrow Neurological Foundation, 100% of your donation goes directly to research, education, and patient care, allowing us to bring hope to patients and their families.
