B.R.A.I.N over Brawn
Brentwood is a school that encourages its students to embrace innovation and forge new paths through a commitment to resilience and perseverance. A foundational principle of the community’s way of life is GRIT, which encourages students to challenge themselves and expand their knowledge, dedicating themselves to rigorous self-development.
An exceptional example of this principle in action is the Brentwood Research, Action & Innovation in Neuroscience program (B.R.A.I.N.), which provides a cutting-edge platform for students to delve into the field of neuroscience and cognition. Through B.R.A.I.N., students delve into neurological research, gain hands-on experience with innovative brain-scanning equipment, and actively contribute to clinical studies on sub-concussions in student-athletes.
The B.R.A.I.N. program is partnered with HealthTech Connex, the professional home of Dr. Ryan D’Arcy, Privett, ‘90, for data collection, utilizing their proprietary device, the NeuroCatch Platform. This advanced medical instrument enables researchers to evaluate an individual’s cognitive brain function and to acquire an objective neurophysiological measure of cognitive processing. Currently, we are engaged in an in-depth investigation centred around high school students and assessing the potential impact of sub-concussive head impacts from contact sports on cognitive abilities. To date, the program has scanned over 100 athletes across a multitude of sports showcasing the hard work and dedication of the team.
Ms Stewart, with a Bachelor's in Chemistry from Western University, is B.R.A.I.N.’s staff sponsor, bringing both expertise and professionalism to her role. She guides and trains students ensuring that they understand the scientific processes behind data collection and analysis, while also organising field trips to extend students’ learning beyond the Science lab. Her passion for the program is unmatched: “Ms Stewart is a wonderful sponsor for our B.R.A.I.N. program, she engages students, encourages enthusiastic participation, and facilitates the exploration of our inquiries,” states Co-Captain of the B.R.A.I.N. program, Kennedy P, Hope ‘25.
Since the beginning of the school year, the program has trained over 35 new student scanners, almost doubling the program, and ensuring a productive future. Recently, Ms Stewart announced an exciting new initiative in which B.R.A.I.N. will be collaborating with Brentwood’s Wellness Club to conduct a research study to analyze the health of students: “This will benefit our community through promoting a better environment and practices for future school years” says Miguel B, Whittall ‘25.
The B.R.A.I.N. program calls for hard work and dedication, is extremely beneficial in connecting students with prominent Canadian neuroscience researchers, and offers practical real-world experience and a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory framework for clinical studies. Ms Stewart states that “It is an invaluable opportunity, introducing students to various aspects of the field” propelling them into early exploration in medicine and research.
Pearl N, Hope ‘25