John Williams

About John

John McKenzie Williams, MS, is a third-year Doctor of Audiology (AuD) student at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi. He holds a Master of Science in Population Health Science from UMMC and a Master of Science in Biological Sciences from Mississippi College. John will complete his clinical externship at Ochsner LSU Health in Shreveport, LA, during the 2026–2027 academic year. His clinical and research interests include cochlear implants, pediatric electrophysiology, vestibular audiology, and health outcomes research. John has been actively involved with the Student Academy of Audiology since 2023, serving as founder and President of the UMMC chapter and as a member of the national SAA Education Committee. He plans to pursue a career as a clinical-research faculty member with a focus on mentorship and evidence-based care. Outside of audiology, John enjoys running, cooking, traveling, and spending time with his two dogs.

If you could change one thing about the profession of audiology, what would it be?

If I could change one thing about the profession of audiology, it would be addressing the ongoing tension between audiology as a medical specialty and audiology as a business service. Audiologists provide diagnostic and rehabilitative care that fundamentally affects communication, cognition, and quality of life. Yet many clinical decisions are influenced by reimbursement structures, sales models, and market pressures that do not always align with patient-centered care. This paradox can create barriers to accessibility, transparency, and trust—especially for families navigating hearing loss for the first time. I believe audiology should move toward a clearer clinical identity grounded in evidence-based practice, person-centered care, and equitable access. This includes advocating for improved reimbursement for diagnostic and rehabilitative services, expanding insurance coverage for hearing technology, strengthening interprofessional clinical training, and ensuring that hearing healthcare is understood as essential rather than optional. Aligning the business side of audiology with its medical and rehabilitative mission is key to the profession’s long-term integrity and the public’s trust.

What unique traits or skills will you bring to a leadership position with the national SAA?

I bring patience, curiosity, and strong problem-solving skills. I do not rush into decisions—I take time to understand context, listen to perspectives, and think about long-term implications. I am naturally curious, which helps me ask meaningful questions and continuously learn. My problem-solving approach is systematic and calm, even when challenges arise. These traits help me work well in complex or multi-step projects and support productive, respectful collaboration.