Reunion Keynote to Spotlight Baylor’s Bold New Brain Institute
Our brains hold our memories, shape our thoughts, guide our emotions and connect us with the people we love. Emotions define us. But for millions, disorders of the brain and mind—ranging from neurodegenerative disease to depression, addiction and neurodevelopmental conditions—steal what makes us human.
On April 25, during Alumni Reunion in Houston, three of Baylor College of Medicine’s leading neurological experts will discuss a transformative response to one of medicine’s greatest challenges. As Baylor celebrates 125 years of impact on research, education and patient care, the keynote luncheon panel—including Wayne Goodman, M.D., professor and chair of the Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences; Ganesh Rao, M.D., professor and chair of the Department of Neurosurgery; and Sameer Sheth, M.D., Ph.D., professor and vice chair of Research in the Department of Neurosurgery—will explore Baylor’s leadership in the neurological sciences and its ambitious vision for the future: the Brain Institute.
Brain disorders represent one of the most urgent health challenges of our time. Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s are rising with an aging population. At the same time, conditions like depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and other psychiatric illnesses affect millions across every stage of life. Historically, these conditions have been studied and treated in silos—separating neurology, psychiatry and neurosurgery—despite sharing underlying brain circuitry and biology.
The Brain Institute represents a new, fully integrated model for brain science. It unites Baylor’s strengths in neurology, neuroscience, neurosurgery, psychiatry, genetics and imaging to accelerate discovery across the full spectrum of brain health—from neurodegeneration to mental health and neurodevelopmental disorders. By breaking down traditional boundaries between disciplines, the Institute will foster collaboration, recruit top physician-scientists from around the world, translate discoveries into new therapies and train the next generation of innovators.
“Our understanding of complex brain circuits has matured to the point that we can realistically begin to tackle challenges that are amongst the most burdensome to society,” Dr. Sheth said.
The Institute builds on Baylor’s remarkable foundation, from world-renowned psychiatric neuromodulation programs and precision mental health research to discoveries such as neuron-glia hybrid brain cells that upended conventional understanding of brain function. With decades of leadership in genetics, brain imaging and psychiatric research, Baylor is uniquely positioned to accelerate breakthroughs for millions suffering from brain disorders.
Drs. Goodman, Rao and Sheth will discuss groundbreaking advancements across their fields—from psychiatric neuromodulation and circuit-based therapies to innovations in brain tumor treatment and discoveries reshaping our understanding of brain function itself.
“As it concerns neuromodulation, our goal is to leverage this understanding to engage dysfunctional circuits and steer them back to health using neuromodulation strategies targeted to individual needs,” Dr. Sheth said. “We trust that these efforts will galvanize a new generation of therapies for the millions who need them.”
The keynote offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from the faculty shaping this bold initiative. Don’t miss out on your chance to learn more about the Brain Institute and take part in your Alumni Reunion weekend.
Join us for an outstanding Reunion program, campus tours, class dinners and the opportunity to reconnect with old friends by registering for Reunion here.
