Lindsey Schroeder, an associate professor of athletic training at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW), has been named to the National Academy of Inventors (NAI) Class of 2026 Senior Members. This recognition is given to individuals who have demonstrated achievements in patents, licensing, and commercialization, as well as a commitment to technological development. Schroeder is among 230 individuals selected for this honor in 2026.
Schroeder co-leads a team working on the Neck Strength Assessment Tool (NSAT), which aims to reduce head and neck injuries by identifying people who may be at risk. The NSAT measures neck strength and provides data-driven assessments that support injury prevention and rehabilitation strategies for groups such as military personnel and athletes.
“I am profoundly honored to be inducted into the National Academy of Inventors as a Senior Member. To be only the fifth individual, and first female, at UNCW to receive this distinction is an extraordinary privilege,” Schroeder said. “This recognition underscores the significance of our scholarly contributions and innovative work, and I am grateful for the opportunity to advance our university’s growing legacy of discovery. I extend my deepest appreciation to all who have supported this journey, especially my co-inventor, Dr. Alex McDaniel, whose collaboration has been indispensable to this achievement.”
The NSAT project recently received a patent from the United States Patent and Trademark Office. It also secured funding from NCInnovation and NC Biotechnology Translational Research Grant programs, which are designed to help move new technologies toward market readiness.
Schroeder is now the fifth UNCW faculty member in four years to become an NAI Senior Member. The NAI established its Senior Member program in 2018 to recognize faculty members who have successfully developed technologies with potential or actual impact on society or economic progress.
The newly selected class will be recognized during the 15th NAI Annual Conference scheduled for June 1-4 in Los Angeles.
