The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) and the American Heart Association have announced the recipients of the 2026 Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships for Brain Health, awarding $150,000 each to two neuroscientists for two-year research projects. Sarah Kettlety, Ph.D., of Baltimore, Maryland, and Cali McEntee, Ph.D., of Ann Arbor, Michigan, will begin their studies on July 1, 2026. The scholarships, now in their third year, are funded by a bequest from the late Ralph L. Sacco, M.D., M.S., FAAN, FAHA, the only neurologist to have served as president of both organizations.
Kettlety, a postdoctoral researcher at Kennedy Krieger Institute and Johns Hopkins University, will investigate how childhood concussions affect long-term health by analyzing heart rate changes during exercise after injury. Her research focuses on patterns in autonomic nervous system function that may predict prolonged concussion symptoms. "If doctors can identify those patients early, they may be able to offer more customized treatments to help them recover more quickly and fully," the announcement stated. The study aims to provide clinicians with tools to anticipate recovery trajectories in young patients.
McEntee, a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Michigan Medical School, will explore the link between exercise and brain health, specifically how substances called exerkines—released from muscles and fat during physical activity—may travel to the brain and enhance cognitive function. Her project seeks to identify which exerkines are most beneficial for maintaining memory and learning as people age, with potential applications for individuals with conditions like diabetes or obesity, and those unable to exercise due to illness or disability.
"As we learn more about the importance of the cognitive and physical aspects of the heart-brain connection, it’s critical to grow the body of evidence that can help us reduce risk and improve health," said Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association. AAN President Natalia S. Rost, M.D., M.P.H., FAAN, FAHA, added, "This program that supports talented researchers in advancing preventive neurology is a testament to his generosity in mentorship and passion for science."
The scholarship program is part of the American Academy of Neurology's Brain Health Initiative and the American Heart Association's commitment to advancing research on the heart-brain connection. Dr. Sacco, who died in 2023 from a brain tumor, dedicated his career to mentoring young scientists and championing brain health research. "He spent much of his life mentoring young scientists just like the recipients of this year’s scholarships," said Nancy Brown, the American Heart Association’s chief executive officer.
Both researchers expressed enthusiasm for continuing Dr. Sacco's legacy. The scholarships underscore the growing recognition of the interplay between cardiovascular and neurological health, and the need for innovative approaches to prevention and treatment.
