Dear neuroethics colleagues and friends,
Perhaps one sign of the maturity of an organization is that it comes to a point when there is news of the passing of one of its valued colleagues. Elaine Snell, Chief Operating Officer of the International Neuroethics Society (INS) from 2014-2018, under my leadership and Hank Greely’s, would be proud of this milestone, as she was of every accomplishment of our organization.
It is with heart wrenching sadness, however, that I share with you the news of her passing on September 20, 2021.
As a consultant to the Dana Foundation for more than 25 years, Elaine’s colleague and friend Barbara Gill would say that Elaine was a lifelong and intrepid traveler. There was no view, hike, friendship, or professional challenge that Elaine was not keen to pursue.
In this same spirit of discovery and impact on others, Elaine worked tirelessly on behalf of the INS from her base in London, England. She introduced us to, and actively engaged our field with countless organizations, including the British Neuroscience Association, the British Science Festival, FENS, IBRO, the International Neuropsychological Society. Elaine single-handedly gave us visibility to more than 100,000 new eyes and ears in the neurosciences and related fields. She herself gave masterful lectures on public engagement and science communication. Elaine brought both warmth and expertise to all whom she reached and touched.
Elaine taught us to live to the fullest and to leave no stone unturned. In the final few months, faced with an aggressive cancer – ‘sinister’ as she called it – Elaine taught us how to die with courage and grace. The world will miss her laughter, her positive outlook, her contributions, her marvelous cooking and hospitality, and much more.
The INS has lost one of its own, and the hole she leaves behind is deep. Let’s fill it with the best neuroethics we can, so that her pride in us continues in her memory.
– Judy Illes, Past President, International Neuroethics Society
