By: Grace Huff
The Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at UF Health has appointed Dawn M. Schiehser, Ph.D., an internationally recognized neuropsychologist specializing in movement disorders, as the newest Leslie & Michael Okun Rising Star Endowed Professor. The professorship honors her exceptional clinical expertise, scientific accomplishments and commitment to advancing neuropsychological care for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions.
Schiehser joins the University of Florida’s Department of Clinical and Health Psychology in the College of Public Health and Health Professions (PHHP), following a joint recommendation from Interim Co-Chairs Michael Marsiske, Ph.D., and Lori Waxenberg, Ph.D., ABPP. Her appointment strengthens UF’s growing neuropsychology footprint and deepens the integration of cognitive and behavioral care across the Fixel Institute’s multidisciplinary movement disorders programs.
As the Rising Star Endowed Professor, Schiehser will help lead innovative clinical and translational research efforts that bridge the mechanisms underlying cognitive, psychiatric and behavioral symptoms with evidence-based patient care. Her work focuses on improving diagnostic precision, treatment planning and long-term outcomes for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury and other neurological conditions, particularly those affected by non-motor symptoms that profoundly influence quality of life but are often underrecognized.
“Dawn brings a rare combination of clinical excellence, scientific rigor, and heart,” said Michael Okun, M.D., Adelaide Lackner Distinguished Professor of Neurology and Executive Director of the Fixel Institute. “Gainesville, UF and our institute are gaining a leader who will push boundaries and elevate neuropsychological care for people living with neurological diseases.”
For Schiehser, the professorship represents both an honor and a pivotal opportunity. “I am deeply honored to be named the Leslie & Michael Okun Rising Star Endowed Professor,” she said. “Joining the Fixel Institute gives me the opportunity to collaborate with exceptional clinicians and scientists and to expand neuropsychological care for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and related conditions.”
Her gratitude extends to the colleagues who have supported her transition to UF. “Words cannot express the deep appreciation that I feel for this incredible opportunity and all of your support,” she said. “I am thrilled to work alongside such a wonderful team and to contribute to UF and Fixel’s esteemed culture of excellence and camaraderie.”
Leaders across the College of Public Health and Health Professions echoed that enthusiasm.
“Dr. Schiehser embodies the academic excellence and compassionate leadership that strengthens our college across our missions of research, education and clinical care,” said Beth A. Virnig, Ph.D., MPH, dean and Robert G. Frank Endowed Professor. “We value our partnership with the Fixel Institute and celebrate Dr. Schiehser’s appointment as the Leslie & Michael Okun Rising Star Endowed Professor. We look forward to the impact her innovative work will have on patients and their families in our community and beyond.”
The Leslie & Michael Okun Rising Star Professorship was created to support emerging leaders whose work shapes the future of neuroscience. With expanded resources, Schiehser will accelerate the development of new interventions, strengthen clinical programs and collaborate closely with Fixel’s multidisciplinary teams on cutting-edge therapeutic and translational research initiatives.
Her appointment marks a significant step in the Fixel Institute’s continued commitment to advancing comprehensive, patient-centered neurological care. As Schiehser begins her tenure, her leadership promises to drive new scientific insights, elevate neuropsychological services and expand the impact of movement disorders care across UF, the region and beyond.
At the Fixel Institute, where collaboration fuels discovery and where patients remain the center of every effort, Dawn Schiehser’s rising star is poised to shine brightly for years to come.