Department of Clinical Neuropsychology Turns 40

George Prigatano, PhD, formed the Department on May 1, 1985 after being recruited by the Institute’s first Chair of Neurology, Dr. Joseph White.

Dr. Prigatano had built a reputation for his work in neuropsychological rehabilitation and was given the opportunity to launch a brain injury day treatment program at Barrow, similar to what he’d developed in Oklahoma City. He accepted the offer, with the condition that he could also create a Department of Clinical Neuropsychology.

“The Department has grown and become an integral part of the clinical, educational, and research activities at Barrow,” Dr. Prigatano said. “Barrow is a special place to practice medicine, not only as a neurosurgeon or neurologist but as a clinical psychologist. The patients we serve have provided us with learning experiences that are not easily paralleled in other locations.”

Dr. Prigatano credits much of the Department’s growth to the support of Dr. White, as well as the
Institute’s founding director John Green, MD, and Dr. Green’s successor, Robert F. Spetzler, MD.

“I have always been proud of our outstanding neuropsychology program,” Dr. Spetzler said. “It only got stronger and better over time. I congratulate them on the 40th anniversary and thank them profusely on behalf of all the patients that benefited from their expertise.”

Dr. Prigatano, who now serves as the Department’s Emeritus Chair, also thanked Lou and Evelyn Grubb for their philanthropic support.