In 1987, a group of neuropsychologists in Northeastern Pennsylvania formed the Susquehanna Neuropsychology Society, which met several times each year. These meetings consisted luncheons with case presentations by members or guests, which were typically followed by spirited but open and friendly critiques of the presentations.

Ira Gensemer, Ed.D., during the April 1, 1991 Susquehanna Neuropsychology Society Meeting, asserted that Dr. Ralph Reitan should be recognized for his contributions to the field through the development of the Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Test Battery (HRB) as well as for his long dedication to continuing professional education with respect to the applications of the HRB.

Dr. Gensemer proposed an expanded view of the group, which consisted of creating a forum for neuropsychologists using the HRB, share knowledge and discuss issues related to the use of the HRB in research and practice. This was to be accomplished by holding meetings in conjunction with annual conferences of interest to neuropsychologists generally.

Along with other members of the Susquehanna group, Dr. Gensemer arranged for an informal meeting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in conjunction with the 12th Annual meeting of the National Academy of Neuropsychologists (NAN) in November 1992. Michael J. Raymond, PhD and Thomas Prutsman, PhD, along with a group of neuropsychologists who attended, supported Dr. Gensemer’s proposal of the formation of a group dedicated to the HRB.

With the intent that the focus of the meetings remain scientific, the first formal gathering of the Reitan Society was held on Friday, October 29, 1993 in Phoenix, Arizona, during the 13th Annual Meeting of NAN. In response to a program announcement, neuropsychologists attended and showed support for continued organizational efforts.

During the summer of 1994, announcements were mailed to neuropsychologists who had expressed an interest in the society. Plans were outlined to meet in Orlando during the NAN annual conference. Included with this announcement was an invitation to submit abstracts for poster presentations relevant to the use of the complete HRB. At this meeting, Dr. Gensemer recognized Dr. Michael J. Raymond as Vice-Chairperson and Dr. Thomas Prutsman as Secretary/Treasurer. A brief history of the society was presented and those in attendance expressed continued support and appreciation of the efforts of the founding group.

In November of 1995, in San Francisco, Dr. Ralph Reitan was presented with the first Halstead Award.

The Reitan Society has continued to meet in conjunction with NAN. However, the society began holding independent continuing education workshops in 1997. Incorporation took place in 1998 and there now exists an executive board and by-laws. With an expanding membership, committees have formed around such issues as proficiency evaluation, professional ethics, professional networking among members and annual program development.