ҹɫapp

Today, ҹɫapp dedicated the Timothy M. Kennedy Institute for Mobility Innovation & Technology (IMIT) at Villa Maria College in honor of U.S. Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26), representing a major step forward in rehabilitative care, education, and research. 

Kennedy joined Dr. Gary A. Olson, ҹɫapp President; and Dr. Matthew Giordano, Villa Maria College President; who lauded Kennedy for his invaluable commitment and support of the 6,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility that provides a bright light of hope and treatment accessibility for those facing mobility challenges in the community, including the East Side of Buffalo. 

Olson praised Kennedy in his remarks, saying, "Central to making this Institute a reality is a very good friend of Daemen: Congressman Tim Kennedy. I want to thank him for his faith in the project and invaluable support. We are all fortunate to have him represent us in congress."

“Congressman Kennedy is a really special person and he has been a friend of Villa Maria College from the very beginning of his time as senator for our district,” said Giordano, adding, “Whenever we need something, we know we can turn to Congressman Kennedy. We are honored and excited to have him in Washington representing us.”

“I am deeply humbled by this honor,” said Kennedy. “Becoming an occupational therapist changed my life for the better and set me on the path towards public service. I hope that all those who walk through the doors of the IMIT are inspired to help others, too.”

The IMIT is the culmination of years of visionary leadership, tireless advocacy, and bold investment in the future of healthcare. As a New York State Senator, Congressman Kennedy spearheaded the effort to secure critical funding for this transformative project. Today, as the only licensed occupational therapist in the U.S. Congress, and a practitioner with over a decade of experience before entering public office, Congressman Kennedy brings a uniquely personal and professional commitment to mobility innovation.

Kennedy added, “The Institute for Mobility Innovation & Technology stands as a reflection of a deeply held belief: every person deserves the freedom to move, the ability to live independently, and the dignity that comes with both. This is more than a cutting-edge facility, it is a promise to care for all. At the Institute for Mobility Innovation & Technology, lives will be restored, futures reimagined, hope renewed, and a new generation of healers will be inspired.”

The IMIT is one of a limited number of facilities across the country that features state-of-the-art equipment and technology, including the Hocoma Lokomat®, the world’s leading robotic exoskeleton; the Alter G® anti-gravity treadmill, which uses NASA differential air pressure technology; Bioness Systems Vector®; and Restorative Therapies Xcite®; among others. 

The Institute’s foundation is built on a CARE framework – Clinical, Advocacy, Research, and Education – positioning the IMIT as a collaborative, community-based hub for advanced rehabilitation. Designed for individuals affected by stroke, spinal cord injury, brain trauma, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, post-COVID complications, and more, the IMIT will serve veterans, children, older adults, and people with disabilities. 

To learn more about the IMIT or to make an appointment, visit this link.