The WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute announced that Ali Rezai, M.D., executive chair of the RNI, has been selected as West Virginia University’s 2026 Big 12 Faculty of the Year Award recipient, according to a press release.
Announced by the Big 12 Conference, the award recognizes one faculty member from each member institution whose achievements in research, innovation and education have made a significant impact on their campus and beyond. Dr. Rezai was honored for his leadership in advancing care for people with neurological and mental health conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and addiction, as well as for shaping the RNI into a world-class center for patient care, scientific discovery and training.
Under Rezai’s direction, the RNI has grown to more than 300 physicians and scientists in seven departments, supported by more than 2,500 professionals who provide 330,000 neurological and mental health patient visits each year. His commitment to translational research, innovative clinical programs and multidisciplinary collaboration continues to redefine the future of neuroscience.
WVU joins the Big 12 Conference in congratulating Dr. Rezai and the 2026 cohort of honorees, each exemplifying the essential role faculty play in driving knowledge, innovation and real-world impact.
