Joanne C. Smith, MD, with Madeleine Albright

Blog

Dr. Smith Honored Alongside Madeleine Albright, Former Secretary of State

Request an appointment

Joanne C. Smith, MD, president and CEO, was honored on June 5 by Concern Worldwide, one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations, with their Women of Concern Humanitarian Award.

Dr. Smith was celebrated for her “bold and unwavering passion to expand the horizons of human ability, ensuring that all have access to long and healthy lives no matter their physical circumstance.” Shirley W. Ryan, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab board member and former Concern honoree, presented Dr. Smith with the award.

Then, Dr. Smith engaged in a lively conversation on stage with her fellow honoree, former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. They touched upon a range of topics, including the moral philosophies that drive their work and the “humanitarian pull” they both share.

More than 550 guests attended the luncheon, which also commemorated Concern Worldwide’s 50th anniversary. 

Let's get connected.

Request an appointment

More Like This

Doctor and patient

Emotional Adjustment After Medical Challenges

After an injury or diagnosis of a serious medical condition, individuals often face emotional adjustment as they recover during rehabilitation — and as they return home to their families and…

Blog

view all news

SkyRise Chicago 2024 Recap

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab team members thank all who participated in our 16th Annual SkyRise Chicago on Nov. 3, 2024! Together, we surpassed our fundraising goal to raise more than $1.4 million — an all-time record. These dollars help fuel our mission and ensure we can continue to help our patients achieve the best outcomes in their recovery journeys.

Blog

Research Spotlight: Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Advances Study of Respiratory Muscle Weakness

Clinicians and scientists at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab are leading new research to expand understanding of respiratory muscle weakness and the diaphragm — a critically important muscle for breathing — in two new studies published in peer-reviewed journals. The research has implications for clinicians to create more effective treatment plans, set precise rehabilitation goals and help patients reach improved outcomes as they recover from impairments to their breathing.

Blog

view all news