Neurology Awards & Recognitions – Summer 2025

HDSA Honor

Nicki Niemann, MD, a movement disorders neurologist in the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow, was honored by the local chapter of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America at its recent “Celebration of Hope” community fundraising event. Each year, the event recognizes honorees in different categories, such as professionals and community members. These honorees are acknowledged for going above and beyond to improve the lives of people with Huntington’s disease in some way. Dr. Niemann leads the Huntington’s disease program at Barrow, which is the only HDSA Center of Excellence in Arizona. As such, Barrow serves an important role in providing specialty treatment and clinical trial participation for people with Huntington’s in the state.

Neurology Teacher of the Year

At the Barrow neurology graduation ceremony, the graduating neurology residents presented Patrick Crooks, MD, a neurologist in the Neurocritical Care Program, with the “Teacher of the Year” award for the 2024-25 academic year. Each year, this award is given to a faculty member who demonstrates commitment to and leadership in the education of young physicians.

Promotions

Susan Criswell, MD, MSCI, a physician-scientist in the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center, was named the Chief Medical Officer for Clinical Research at Barrow. In this role, Dr. Criswell will be responsible for providing leadership and direction for the clinical quality and the performance of the Institute’s clinical research programs.

Kamala Saha, MD, FAAN, a neurologist in the Neuro-Otology Program and the Lewis Headache Center, was promoted to associate professor in the University of Arizona Department of Neurology, following her promotion to associate professor in the Barrow Department of Neurology. She was also named the neurology clerkship director at the UofA.