Chicago City Wire

Kathy Zebracki, Ph.D., chief of psychology at Shriners Children's Chicago, has received a national leadership award from the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA). The recognition highlights her 10 years of service as editor-in-chief of the journal Topics in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation.

“It has been an incredible honor to serve as editor-in-chief of Topics in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation for the past decade,” said Dr. Zebracki. “I’m deeply grateful to ASIA for this recognition, and I remain committed to advancing research and clinical excellence in spinal cord injury care. Working alongside so many dedicated professionals in this field continues to inspire me and the work I do every day.”

At Shriners Children's Chicago, Dr. Zebracki leads a team that provides psychological support for children and adolescents with complex medical needs such as spinal cord injuries, neuromuscular disorders, and orthopedic conditions. The hospital incorporates psychological care into treatment plans to help patients adapt to life changes and support their recovery.

Dr. Zebracki is also involved in research, education, and advocacy aimed at improving outcomes for pediatric patients across the country. Shriners Children’s Chicago manages a large longitudinal database tracking medical and psychosocial outcomes after childhood spinal cord injuries, which includes data from more than 500 participants.

Dr. Zebracki was recognized during the 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting held in Scottsdale, Arizona. “We are proud to honor Dr. Zebracki for her exceptional service and steadfast leadership as editor-in-chief of Topics in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation,” said President of ASIA Mark S. Nash, Ph.D., FACSM. “Under her guidance, the journal has flourished as a trusted source for high-quality research and clinical insight, helping to advance ASIA’s mission of promoting research, education, and advocacy for our members, healthcare professionals, patients and their families, as well as the general public.”