The FES Center is thrilled to congratulate research participant, collaborator and long-time FES Center supporter Jen French, who was named recipient of the 2024 Craig H. Nelson Visionary Prize this month.
The prestigious award honors individuals who have contributed to improving quality of life for people living with spinal cord injury (SCI), exemplifying the spirit championed by Craig H. Neilsen throughout his life.
The Visionary Prize is accompanied by an unrestricted $1 million award, highlighting Jen’s achievements and ongoing impact.
Jen is the founder and executive director of the Neurotech Network, dedicated to advancing neurotechnology and improving quality of life for people with SCI. She is also an accomplished athlete, winning a silver medal in sailing for Team USA at the 2012 Paralympic Games.
Jen is also co-founder of the Warrior Sailing Program for wounded veterans and has worked to amplify the voices of those with spinal cord injury, promoting inclusion across work and sports and advocating for engineering innovations to help people with spinal cord injury.
For decades, Jen has been a friend, icon and hero throughout the halls of the FES Center. She first connected with the Center following a snowboarding accident in 1998 that left her paralyzed from the chest down. In 2000, she participated in a clinical trial for an implanted device that stimulated muscles in her hip and leg, allowing her to stand and be upright under her own power.
The work also paved the way for future research and technology advancements originating in Cleveland and that have been shared with thousands, including injured soldiers and Veterans.
