“I remember so many days with Galen in the Brigham (and Woman’s Hospital) ICU as resident and fellow. We would often share stories of growing up in the rural south in what weren’t always the friendliest of times. Tunica, Mississippi vs Marion, Alabama? Not so different. When I was plotting my professional course in neurology, Galen was a mirror to the possibilities and a voice of encouragement. ‘You know, you should do THIS!’ as he listed why neurocritical care should be career choice. He was right.” Tommy Thomas

The HEARD Center formally launched at the 2024 NCS Annual Meeting and will host its inaugural programmatic implementation in Montréal at the 2025 Annual Meeting. 

When Dr. Galen Henderson, a neurointensivist and the chief diversity and inclusion officer at Harvard’s Brigham and Woman’s Hospital, died unexpectedly in 2023, the neurocritical care community grieved not only the loss of a mentor, but the loss of potential impact of his unfinished work. Dr. Henderson’s life is a living testament to what is possible when barriers fall and investments are made in and by an individual.

His story is of a journey from rural Mississippi to the hallowed halls of one of the world’s most respected institutions, powered by exposure, access and unwavering determination.

Personal Experiences as Foundation

For many in the Neurocritical Care Society (NCS), Galen’s story resonates deeply because it mirrors our own struggles and triumphs.

We have experienced firsthand how a single opportunity, moment of access or crucial exposure can alter the entire trajectory of a career—a life. These are not abstract concepts but our lived realities. It’s the difference between potential realized and potential lost. An individual can make a difference.

Being the Change We Want to See

Dr. Henderson’s passing crystallized a deeper calling to systematically expand access beyond those with accidental exposure or random opportunities.

When NCS asked us to honor Dr. Henderson’s memory, the response was immediate: “We want to create something transformative.” We jotted on scraps of paper, phone apps and texts the changes we envision for our field, the changes in healthcare Dr. Henderson long advocated for.

Evidence-Based Action

The decision for these initiatives isn’t just a moral imperative; it is scientifically sound.

Research consistently shows that teams built of those with varied perspectives are more productive and creative while accelerating complex problem solving.

A healthcare work force that mirrors the community it serves fosters trust and improve outcomes of patients. These research environments generate more innovative solutions and reach wider audiences. They produce work with higher citation rates and broader impact.

The HEARD Center will be built on this foundation: doing good, while doing what evidence shows works best for advancing knowledge and discovery.

Personal Relationship and Accountability

The HEARD Center carries the weight of collective memory and aspiration.

With accountability to Dr. Henderson’s legacy and to the broader communities represented by the Inclusion in Critical Care (INCC) Committee and NCS, the HEARD Center emerged from the deep partnership and unlikely paths of its founders.

Mutual support and a collective vision from those who work on the HEARD Center are insurance that this work will continue even when enthusiasm wanes or obstacles stand in the way. This isn’t just about individual success but about honoring those who paved the way, a commitment to each other and ensuring future generations have the exposure and access that can transform lives.

Accountability to the Group

The HEARD Center stands as both memorial and manifesto: a declaration that Dr. Henderson’s story of transformation shouldn’t be exceptional, but replicable, scalable and systematic.

In honoring one life well-lived, the HEARD Center commits to ensuring countless others have the same opportunities to flourish.

The name HEARD itself embodies this mission, ensuring that voices from all backgrounds are not just present, but truly heard, amplified and valued in the halls of academic and professional excellence.