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51������, Villa Maria College, and Buffalo Rehab Group celebrated the official opening of the 51������ Institute for Mobility Innovation & Technology (IMIT) at Villa Maria College today during a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Dr. Gary A. Olson, 51������ President; Dr. Matthew Giordano, Villa Maria College President; and Jeff Woodrich, Buffalo Rehab Group Chief Executive Officer; were present to commemorate the opening of the 6,000 foot state-of-the-art physical therapy clinic, which provides advanced post-acute physical therapy rehabilitation to those impacted by stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and other neurological, pediatric, and orthopedic conditions through advanced robotic devices and assistive technology.

Over five years in the making, the IMIT was brought to fruition through $3 million in external funding, including a $1.2 million state grant procured by U.S. Congressman Timothy Kennedy—who was in his former New York State Senator role at the time—as well as additional grant funding from Empire State Development and eleven foundations.

Olson, Giordano, and Woodrich lauded Kennedy in their remarks for his faith in the project and his invaluable support, without which the IMIT wouldn’t have been possible. Olson stated, “We are all fortunate to have him represent us in Congress.”

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 IMIT is a testament to 51������’s ongoing commitment to investing in the community and the future of healthcare,” said Olson. “Through our collaboration with Villa Maria College and Buffalo Rehab Group and the generosity of local foundations and government agencies, we are making critical post-acute rehabilitation more accessible for patients of all ages while also furthering excellence in teaching and cutting-edge research.”

“Villa Maria College remains committed to serving the Western New York Community – especially our neighbors on Buffalo’s East Side,” said Dr. Matthew Giordano, the president of Villa Maria College. “We are thrilled to partner with 51������ and Buffalo Rehab Group to open the IMIT. The IMIT is filling a major need by making advanced healthcare more accessible, particularly to a traditionally underserved population. Its creation aligns with our mission and core values and further demonstrates our deep dedication to creating a better, more equitable Buffalo.”

"We are incredibly proud to celebrate the opening of this beacon of hope and advancement in neurological rehabilitation for our community," said Jeff Woodrich, President & CEO of Buffalo Rehab Group. "Partnering with 51������ and Villa Maria College, we are making advanced therapies more accessible and creating an environment that pushes the boundaries of rehabilitation care for patients of all ages. We are excited for the positive impact it will have on our community and beyond."

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