RRI RESEARCHERS LAID THE FOUNDATION
FOR THE NEUROSCIENCE OF TODAY
Over the last 30 years, the Rotman Research Institute made great strides in advancing
brain research and uncovering ways to improve the quality of life of older adults.
These milestones were only possible through the contributions of world-renowned
researchers whose work changed the growing field of neuroscience.
As we look to the RRI's future, we pay homage to our past, recognizing the trailblazing
contributions of RRI scientists who have retired, including Drs. Donald Stuss, Fergus
Craik, Carol Greenwood, Endel Tulving, and Gordon Winocur.
Founding director of the RRI
A prominent neuropsychologist, Dr. Donald Stuss helped
advance brain research through his appointment as
the RRI's first director when it was launched by the late
Joseph Rotman in 1989.
During his 20-year tenure, Dr. Stuss, the former Vice-
President of Research at Baycrest, led the RRI's growth
into a world-class, brain research centre that explores
the brain's everyday functions, such as memory
and decision-making, and the effects of aging and
neurodegenerative diseases.
Dr. Stuss was a leader in the field of cognitive neuroscience via his pioneering research
into the brain's frontal lobes (an area of the brain that plays a crucial role in our day-to-
day functioning), which led to the development of treatment and rehabilitation programs
for patients with traumatic brain injury.
Dr. Stuss worked with patients to understand how damage to this brain region influences
behavioural changes. His evolved theory of frontal lobe function and interventions
to optimize brain functionality in older adults have been adopted internationally by
researchers and clinicians at various healthcare institutions to treat and enhance the
well-being of patients with brain injuries.
Over the course of his career, Dr. Stuss has been recognized for his work through
numerous awards, such as the Order of Canada and Ontario; a fellowship with the
Royal Society of Canada; and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal; the
Gold Key Award, the highest honour presented by the American Congress of
Rehabilitation Medicine; and the International Neuropsychological Society Lifetime
Achievement Award.
Dr. Stuss established the Rotman Research Institute's path by launching an institute
focused on learning more about the brain to help the development of effective
treatments for brain disorders, such as dementia.
2018–2019 YEAR IN REVIEW 27
Sadly, after the publication of this report, Dr. Donald Stuss passed away on September 3, 2019.
We are deeply saddened by his loss, and will be eternally grateful to Dr. Stuss for his innumerable
contributions. Read about the many ways people around the world were touched by Dr. Stuss, and
add your own remembrances to the memorial website.
