The 5th Annual Brain Academy, sponsored by Carondelet Neurological Institute (CNI), was held April 24 and 25 on the campus of Carondelet St. Joseph’s Hospital. This year saw a record number of applicants for the program, and the 21 high school juniors from across Tucson and Sahuarita selected were chosen based on their grades, a written essay, and teacher recommendations.

The two-day Brain Academy is a unique and prestigious opportunity for Southern Arizona juniors to learn about the neurosciences through a series of educational and interactive sessions, including a tour of the operating room; meet-and-greets with neurosurgeons and neurologists; a hands-on demonstration of balance testing and treatments; and a chance to act out a simulated response to a stroke patient.

"It's our hope to interest you in the study of neurosciences; or, if not that, in the field of medicine and science," said CNI Chairman Dr. Robert Golfarb.

“It is both a unique opportunity for the students, but also a wonderful occasion for those of us at CNI to educate the next generation of neurological specialists who will be tasked with treating and healing those with neurological disorders,” added Dr. Sipos, Medical Director of CNI.