Michael Okun

• Distinguished Professor of Neurology, Norman Fixel Institute, University of Florida

Michael S. Okun is an American neurologist, neuroscientist, educator, advocate, and New York Times bestselling author who has devoted his career to improving the lives of people living with Parkinson's disease, Tourette syndrome and other movement disorders. He co-founded and directs the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at University of Florida Health, where he is a Distinguished Professor of Neurology. He previously served as Chair of the UF Department of Neurology and, since 2006, has served as Medical Director and Advisor for the Parkinson's Foundation.

Dr. Okun is internationally recognized for pioneering work in deep brain stimulation and neuromodulation. His research has helped define the cognitive, behavioral, and mood effects of DBS; advance stimulation for Parkinson's disease, Tourette syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder, dystonia, and tremor; and move the field toward adaptive and closed-loop brain stimulation. He and his colleagues established the physiological basis underpinning human tic and have developed state of the art neuromodulation treatments for the most severe Tourette cases. He co-founded the DBS Think Tank and established the international Tourette Syndrome DBS Registry, efforts designed not only to advance science but also to improve access to therapies for people with rare and underserved disorders.

Equally important has been his commitment to transforming Parkinson's care. His team developed multidisciplinary models that place the person with Parkinson's at the center (the sun), integrating clinical care, research, technology, caregivers, and community.

Dr. Okun has published more than 600 scientific papers and 15 books, including the New York Times bestseller The Parkinson's Plan. He has also published the book Tourette Syndrome: 10 Secrets to a Happier Life. He has trained and mentored generations of movement disorders specialists and has been a vigorous global advocate for people affected by neurological disease. His contributions were recognized by the White House in 2015 when he was named a Champion of Change.

• –present Professor of Neurology, University of Florida

White House Champion of Change

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