Dr. Maroon received an athletic scholarship to Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana where as an undergraduate, he was named a Scholastic All-American in football. Dr. Maroon has successfully maintained his personal athletic interests through participation in 9 marathons and more than 72 Olympic-distance triathlon events. However, his greatest athletic accomplishment is his participation in 8 Ironman triathlons (Hawaii – 1993, 2003, 2008, 2010, 2013; Canada – 1995; New Zealand – 1997; Germany – 2000), where he usually finishes in the top 10 of his age group. Recently, in July 2012 and 2013, he finished second and third, respectively, in his age group in the Muncie, Indiana half Ironman triathlon. In October 2013 he completed his 5th World Championship Ironman in Kona, Hawaii.Dr. Maroon to Receive the Ellis Island Medal of Honor on May 10 2025
Neurosurgeon, wellness expert and internationally recognized concussion expert, Dr. Joseph Maroon, will be honored on May 10, 2025 by the Ellis Island Honor Society. He is acknowledged for his many contributions in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of traumatic athletic injuries to the brain and spinal cord.
Founded in 1986, the Ellis Island Medals of Honor shines a light on the brilliance, innovation, compassion, dedication, and creativity of one of the most diverse and dynamic generations in U.S. history. Honorees are trailblazers across fields as varied as logistics, the military, journalism, biotechnology, and finance. Yet, they share a powerful common mission: to make their country—and the world—a better place. The event will be held in New York City at the Ellis Island Great Hall on May 10, 2025.
“I am honored by this prestigious award that has included 7 past US presidents. This is an unexpected honor that I’m very proud to receive on behalf of all those who strive to improve the human condition,” stated Dr. Maroon.
ABOUT THE HONOR SOCIETY
The Ellis Island Honors Society heralds the importance of immigration to America’s prosperity and celebrates the contributions immigrants and their progeny have made to our nation.
In 1986, Ellis Island Honors Society founded the Ellis Island Medals of Honor which commemorates the indefatigable spirit of those who immigrated to the United States during the Ellis Island era. The Medal is presented annually to those who have shown an outstanding commitment to serving our nation either professionally, culturally or civically, among other criteria.
MISSION
The mission of the Ellis Island Honors Society is captured in a single phrase: “IMMIGRATION WORKS FOR AMERICA”
The Ellis Island Honors Society (EIHS) was founded on the conviction that the diversity of the American people is what makes this nation great. EIHS honors the contributions made by immigrants and their descendants throughout American history. We do this by creating scholarships with a focus on immigration, supporting cultural events and programs around the nation, and mobilizing our community of Ellis Island Medal of Honor recipients to raise funds for disaster relief worldwide.
Since the medal was founded, we have honored distinguished and diverse Americans including Presidents Ronald Reagan and William J. Clinton, as well as five other Presidents of the United States. Past Medalists include seven U.S. Presidents, several Nobel Laureates and countless leaders of industry; education; the arts; sports, and government. All whom have made freedom, liberty and compassion a part of their life’s work.