Why are you interested in joining the national SAA Board of Directors?
I am currently the co-chair for Education and Advocacy, and I have been able to see the diversity of lived experiences and also the necessary steps we need to take in our field to be not only more dynamic and holistic, but also teach the public about why hearing health is so important! I want to gain perspective from the board. I think that while I have had the opportunity to see and experience different aspects of audiology and those in the field and connected to our field, there is so much more I do not know. I have worked in New York and Pennsylvania, but also have spent most of my academic career in one place, and I know there is more to learn from my peers and professionals in the field.
If you could change one thing about the profession of audiology, what would it be?
I think I would want to encourage and create more spaces for collaboration. While we have so many experts in the field, I do feel that often we end up in silos depending on where we work and provide services. I also think in our work with the Deaf community, we have a duty to understand cultural beliefs, language, and more. I also would encourage collaboration with other professionals including medical doctors, occupational therapists, and interpreters.