Craig Hospital Research Scientists Recognized by the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA)

We are thrilled to announce that Craig Hospital Research Scientists Susie Charlifue, Ph.D., FASIA, FISCoS, FACRM, and Jenn Coker, Ph.D., MPH, FASIA, have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to the field of spinal cord injury (SCI) research and rehabilitation by the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA). Susie has been inducted as the new president of ASIA, and Jenn has been selected as a Fellow of ASIA (FASIA) Award recipient and elected to its Board of Directors. Founded in 1973, ASIA is a multidisciplinary organization that brings together physicians, researchers, therapists and other healthcare professionals who are committed to advancing spinal cord injury research, education and clinical practice.

Susie Charlifue, Ph.D., FASIA, FISCoS, FACRM, Named 2024 ASIA President

Susie’s remarkable career at Craig Hospital began in 1976. She completed her doctorate in Health and Behavioral Science at the University of Colorado, Denver in 2004 and has played a crucial role in numerous SCI research initiatives. As Co-Project Director of the SCI Model System (SCIMS) at Craig Hospital and Principal Investigator for both NIDILRR and Department of Defense SCI grants, Susie’s work has driven forward critical advancements in SCI research and clinical trials.

This year, Susie was inducted as the new president of ASIA, marking a historic moment as she becomes the first non-clinician to hold this prestigious position. Reflecting on this achievement, Susie states, “It’s a tremendous honor to be the first non-physician, non-clinician president of ASIA. I’ve been an ASIA member for longer than I can remember and have seen the organization grow from a very medical, physician-led association to one that is incredibly inclusive of all clinicians and researchers working to improve the lives of people with spinal cord injuries. I look forward to working with our incredible ASIA Board of Directors and all of our committee chairs – they are the backbone of ASIA.”

Jenn Coker, Ph.D., MPH, FASIA, Selected as 2024 Fellow of ASIA Award Recipient and ASIA Board Member

Jenn’s journey in the field of SCI began in 1997. She earned her Master of Public Health (MPH) from the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University in 2001, where she received the prestigious James W. Alley Award for Outstanding Service to Disadvantaged Populations. Jenn’s pursuit of knowledge and excellence led her to obtain a Ph.D. in Clinical Science from the University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus in 2020.

Since joining Craig Hospital in April 2012, Jenn has made significant strides in SCI research and rehabilitation. As the Co-Project Director of the SCIMS and Principal Investigator for several other projects, her work has been pivotal in advancing the understanding of SCI outcomes and improving patient care. Jenn’s dedication to the field is further evidenced by her roles as Chair of the ASIA Program Committee and Chair of the SCIMS Women’s Health Special Interest Group.

Jenn is grateful to receive the Fellow of ASIA Award and election to the board, and she reflects on what this means to her, “In our small field, the work that we do can make a difference for people living with SCI.” Jenn is heavily involved with career development for early career researchers and clinicians, and she hopes this recognition allows others to see a path toward leadership in this field. “My time on the board will be dedicated to ensuring that ASIA remains a leading organization in the field and that our future leaders feel as welcomed, motivated and enthusiastic about SCI research and practice as I have throughout my career,” Jenn says.

A Bright Future for SCI Research and Rehabilitation

As Susie embarks on her tenure as ASIA president and Jenn joins the ASIA Board, we look forward to celebrating the continued positive impact of their work. Their leadership, dedication and innovative approaches have not only advanced our understanding of SCI but have also paved the way for improved patient outcomes and quality of life.

Congratulations to Susie and Jenn on these well-deserved honors. We are proud to celebrate their achievements!