About Dr. Brian Hainline:
A Life Dedicated to the Intersection of Sport, Health, and Well-being

A Physician with a
Passion for Sport

Dr. Brian Hainline's journey began with a pivotal moment. Witnessing firsthand the transformative power of sport in a young patient's recovery ignited a lifelong passion for the interplay between physical activity, mental well-being, and human development.

Dr. Hainline's dedication led him to excel in his academic pursuits, earning a prestigious medical degree and specializing in neurology and pain management. His expertise in the complex workings of the brain and nervous system fuels his innovative approach to sports medicine.

A Leader in the Arena
of Sports Medicine

His groundbreaking leadership as the first Chief Medical Officer of the NCAA stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to athlete safety and well-being. Dr. Hainline’s vision and tireless efforts impacted the lives of millions of student-athletes by implementing core education programs, groundbreaking policy changes, and essential research initiatives.

Core Values:
The Guiding Principles

Integrity, loyalty, and a commitment to continuous learning are the cornerstones of Dr. Hainline's approach. He believes that "true leadership requires unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to serving the greater good." This philosophy is reflected in all his endeavors, fostering trust and collaboration in the pursuit of a healthier and more vibrant future for sport and public health.

Championing Mental Wellness and a Thriving Society

Dr. Hainline is a leading voice advocating for the power of sport and exercise in promoting mental well-being for all. He champions initiatives that make physical activity accessible to individuals of all ages and abilities, recognizing its potential to combat mental health challenges and create a more resilient society. He believes that "sport is not just about competition—it's about building stronger minds, bodies, and communities."

A Recognized Authority on Concussion Management

Dr. Hainline's dedication to athlete safety extends to the forefront of concussion research. He played a pivotal role in leading the largest concussion study in history, significantly advancing our understanding of this critical area. His ongoing efforts focus on developing effective concussion prevention programs, raising awareness, and creating a culture of responsible sports practices.

A Legacy of Inspiration:
Dr. Hainline's Impact

Dr. Hainline's influence extends far beyond the playing field. Athletes, colleagues, and event organizers consistently praise his ability to inspire and educate.

"Dr. Hainline is the consummate physician; he not only understands the illness or injury that affects a patient but also understands who the patient is. The key to practicing the best medicine is not only knowing what disease the patient has but also knowing which patient has the disease. His ability to integrate the world of science with compassion, empathy, and respect elevates Dr. Hainline to the highest echelons of healthcare providers. Through his multiple leadership positions, he has applied his comprehensive mind/body approach to larger populations as well. This model has allowed him to make important contributions to public health in general. I consider it a true privilege to be able to call him a colleague and friend."

— Stanley A. Herring, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA

  • "Public health stands at the intersections of science, medicine, psychology, anthropology, politics, and the humanities. Foremost, public health is a social science—the disciplined study of how people and society behave and interact with their environment in ways that promote health or disease. No individual embodies the ethos of healthful behavior more than Brian Hainline, whose intelligence, sensitivity, honesty and moral compass are second to none. Brian's unique experiences in public health and his keen skills to listen and reflect make his insights invaluable."

    Orrin Devinsky, MD
    Professor of Neurology and Neuroscience,
    NYU Grossman School of Medicine

  • “Dr. Hainline has tirelessly led efforts to increase both the understanding and recognition of the mind-body connection for optimal performance in sport. He has promoted strategies to protect brain and body health among athletes, while also spearheading a movement to enable better care for athletes affected by mental health challenges.”

    Michael McCrea, PhD
    Professor and Endowed Chair of Neurosurgery 
    Medical College of Wisconsin

  • "When Brian Hainline speaks, he brings a unique perspective of integrating cutting-edge science with the mind, body and spirit of the human being—and you understand that the public good is what matters."

    Steve Broglio, PhD
    Director, Michigan Concussion Center,
    University of Michigan

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