Francis Collins, Director of the NIH, on July 31, 2014, announced Story’s impending retirement:

…I also recognize that we are losing one of the true giants at the NIH.  Not only has Story led NINDS as its Director ably since 2003…she has had a profound impact on neuroscience across the agency and the broader research community…Story was also a founding co-chair of the NIH Blueprint for Neuroscience Research, a highly successful effort to support trans-NIH activities in the brain sciences.  In 2007, she was named Chair of the NIH Stem Cell Task Force…In 2013 she was integral to the launch of the BRAIN initiative.  Very few can match her towering intellect, boundless energy, commitment to biomedical research, and scientific expertise.

 

On September 18, 2014, Senator Tom Harkin entered “Tribute to Dr. Story Landis” in the Congressional Record.  He emphasized her courage, ability to bridge gaps, and her passion:

Dr. Landis’s career has stimulated tremendous progress in the field of neuroscience and inspired legions of young scientists to follow in her path…We honor Dr. Story Landis today for her invaluable leadership of NINDS, and for her great service to the people of the United States.