Professor expert on brain trauma

Michael Shaughnessy teaches special education and educational studies at Eastern New Mexico University. He's also become a recognized expert on head injuries, brain trauma and concussions.

Shaughnessy said his work in brain injury rehabilitation started when local educators asked him to assist children and adolescents recover from head injuries associated with automotive and sports accidents. According to Shaughnessy, parents also requested he assist individuals with head injuries cope with social, speech, language and motor coordination problems.

Following the recommendation of a parent, Shaughnessy attended several Brain Injury Advisory Council meetings, applied for the council, and was appointed by Gov. Gary Johnson several years ago.

Shaughnessy was recently reappointed to the council by Gov. Susanna Martinez to continue assisting with head injury and brain trauma in eastern New Mexico. He served on the council under two previous New Mexico governors.

"I am just gratified that the governor has recognized my work over the past few years," said Shaughnessy, who has taught at ENMU since 1983.

"I'm gratified she has the confidence that I will continue to do my best to provide assistance, information and guidance for the children, adolescents and adults of New Mexico."

The Brain Injury Advisory Council aims to disseminate knowledge and information, provide referral sources and support to those who have suffered from head injuries, brain trauma or concussions.

According to Shaughnessy, it distributes helmets to children riding bicycles, skateboards, roller skates or horses in an effort to develop good habits and prevent concussions or head injury from falls.

"We want parents to be aware that it is the law in New Mexico for children to wear helmets and that wearing helmets can save lives," Shaughnessy said.

He said his position involves several trips a year to Santa Fe for meetings and consultation with other professionals. Shaughnessy co-authored several articles on treating head and traumatic brain injuries.

Dan Greathouse, educational diagnostician with Muleshoe Independent School District, studied under Shaughnessy at ENMU more than 15 years ago. Shaughnessy helped set up his career in Portales. He has also co-authored several articles and book chapters with Shaughnessy.

"He brings a tremendous amount of knowledge and expertise to the council," said Greathouse, who worked as an educational diagnostician in Portales schools for 14 years.

"He's able to also articulate in such a way to help other members on that panel who may not be as knowledgeable. He's able to effectively communicate with parents and students with disabilities."