Derek Snyder builds a foundation for traumatic brain injury awareness

Derek Snyder, a senior at Pennsylvania State University majoring in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship with a minor in Economics, is turning personal tragedy into purposeful action. A resident of Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania, Derek was deeply affected when a close high school friend was assaulted during his freshman year of college, leaving him in a coma with traumatic brain injuries. Soon after, a cousin suffered a similar injury in a car accident.

In response, Derek organized a golf tournament to raise funds and provide support for both his friend and cousin. That experience inspired him to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to outreach, education, and assistance for others impacted by traumatic brain injuries.

With the help of his Hunter’s Fund grant, Derek is launching the Jackie Lithgow Foundation, named in honor of his friend. The grant will support the foundation’s first programs, which aim to increase awareness, provide resources, and offer hope to those living with the challenges of brain injury.