PLEASE NOTE: This year, applicants were permitted to run for both SAA president-elect and member-at-large if they so desired. Once voting opens, you will be asked to vote for one (1) candidate for president-elect and your top eight (8) candidates for member-at-large. Candidates who are running for both president-elect and member-at-large are included in this post, in addition to in the 2021-2022 President-Elect Candidates post.
You may vote for the same candidate for president-elect and a member-at-large position. The winning president-elect candidate will be removed from the member-at-large tally and the eight (8) candidates that receive the most votes will be awarded member-at-large positions.
Tamahra Navarrete – A.T. Still University
Undergrad: Arizona State University / Speech and Hearing Science
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
Arizona will always be my home!
What is your favorite piece of advice or quote?
“See one, do one, teach one!”
Who is your favorite Audiology celebrity and why?
My favorite audiology celebrity is Marion Downs. Thanks to her, universal newborn hearing screening is being done on children and we are able to diagnose hearing loss at a young age. Life changing!
Any other fun facts you would like to share?
I enjoy traveling. I’ve been to many different countries and have loved every single adventure. I also love to read, hike, weight train, spend time with family, and continue learning about things that peak my interest. “You learn something new everyday” is me in a quote.
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
Better quality of life- a concept everyone perceives differently but something everyone would like to have. This is why I decided to run for the Student Academy of Audiology Board along with pursuing a career in audiology. Growing up as part of an underserved Latino community, I was never aware that help was available for auditory or vestibular concerns. “Oh you’re just getting old” was the common response when someone expressed any concern related to the auditory or vestibular system. I have come to realize that my community was underserved for economic reasons, language barriers, as well as inhibiting cultural beliefs. I realize now that the quality of life for individuals in my community with auditory or vestibular concerns is lacking. I believe being bilingual (fluent in Spanish and English) and a soon-to-be an audiologist within the community, I will be of great help in bridging the gap and bringing awareness of the needs in my community and the services available. I will advocate for audiology and for others in my community wanting that quality of life they so desire. Helping others and advocating for others, especially those who are not aware of auditory and vestibular subjects no matter the case, will better my quality of life and give me a feeling of fulfillment and success.
Rebekah Havens – The University of Texas at Dallas
Undergrad: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center / Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
Mexia, TX
What is your favorite piece of advice or quote?
“No one is you and that is your superpower”
Who is your favorite Audiology celebrity and why?
Nancy Tye Murray because she is a leader and innovator in aural rehabilitation
Fun Facts:
I can move my ears!
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
My name is Rebekah Havens, and I am a second year Doctor of Audiology student at the University of Texas at Dallas.
I decided to run for the SAA Board of Directors because of my experiences volunteering for the Education Committee. Volunteering for the committee has allowed me to collaborate with audiology students around the nation to create resources for the National Audiology Awareness Month Campaign, representing the national organization in various public spaces. This opportunity has also allowed me to serve as a student liaison to the American Board of Audiology, working alongside more experienced professionals. These experiences cultivated a desire to become more involved and make lasting impacts.
Serving on the SAA Board of Directors would allow me to help shape the future of the choices available to audiology students across the nation. I am ecstatic about the chance to serve my fellow students in any capacity where the SAA Board of Directors would place me.
Not only would being a member allow me to serve others, but it would give me the opportunity to refine my knowledge of emerging research and of issues influencing audiology.
I am thrilled to run for the SAA Board of Directors, and I especially want to express my appreciation for your consideration.
Preston Thompson
Undergrad: California State University, Northridge / Audiology
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
San Fernando Valley, CA
What is your favorite piece of advice or quote?
“Having a plan B distracts from plan A”
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
My name is Preston Thompson, I am a CSUN undergraduate, and I decided to run for the SAA Board because I want to be as informed in our profession as much as possible. I am interested in being the person that my peers can refer to with any questions or concerns that I could confidently answer and help with. Being able to collaborate with others and ensuring that all audiology students are being informed, supported, and connected are all reasons why I decided to run for the SAA Board.
Shannon Culbertson – University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Undergrad: California State University – Fresno / Communication Sciences and Deaf Studies + minor in Agricultural Business
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
Fresno, CA
Any other fun facts you would like to share?
I grew up on a farm and had a multitude of pets including: cattle, goats, sheep, chickens, turkeys, dogs (of course), cats, ostriches, deer, llamas and one alpaca named Walter
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
really do love audiology; it has been a huge part of my life. I have had the joy of being a patient and look forward to my time as a provider. I simply cannot imagine pursuing any other future career. My personal experience with hearing loss contributes greatly to my passion for this profession. I chose to run for the SAA Board because I want to use my passion as an asset and collaborate with other students across the country to continue to make advancements in our occupation. My prior experience of volunteering on our national SAA Member Relations Committee and Students with Hearing Loss Subcommittee this year has allowed me to work together with other doctor of audiology students from across the country to create materials to benefit membership. Being on the SAA Board would give me the opportunity to serve with the leadership skills I have established, while simultaneously giving me the opportunity to expand upon those skills and learn from others. I am excited to potentially serve on the SAA Board, as it would provide me with the unique opportunity to foster relationships with other audiology students while creating resources to explore our passions and better our education.
Molly Murdock – Auburn University
Undergrad: Auburn University / Communication Disorders
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
Oak Harbor, WA
What is your favorite piece of advice or quote?
“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.” -Maya Angelou
Who is your favorite Audiology celebrity and why?
My favorite audiology celebrity is Marion Downs who was a trailblazer in pediatric audiology. I admire her dedication to early identification of hearing loss and her passionate effort in advocating for newborn hearing screenings. At a time when it was not common, she pushed for putting hearing aids on babies as early as possible to allow for access to speech and language at such a critical age. Her work has had a profound impact on the profession, not just nationally, but internationally as well. Her efforts truly laid the foundation for pediatric audiology and helped to shape many of the practices we still use today.
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
Current audiology students are the future of our profession and I strongly believe that we have the ability to make a positive impact. The Student Academy of Audiology is a valuable organization that provides numerous avenues for students to evolve within our profession, and really helps to shape future leaders in audiology. I hope to be a member of the SAA Board of Directors to play an active role in enriching the future of audiology while giving back to an organization that has done so much for students. If elected, I will advocate for all audiology students and actively promote more participation in the many invaluable opportunities offered by SAA.
Melissa Henry – Vanderbilt University
Undergrad: Saint Mary’s College / Communication Sciences and Disorders
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
Ada, Michigan
Any other fun facts you would like to share?
In my free time, I like to figure skate and paint by number!
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
I am excited about the opportunity to serve on the national SAA Board because it functions as an incredible networking resource and support for local SAA chapters and their students. In a time where we may not have all the answers about what the future holds, I will continue asking questions on what national SAA can do to engage students and influence positive change in the audiology profession. Almost overnight, we had to adapt to a different way of learning but despite all the challenges, audiology students are resilient. Now we are entering an inspiring world of new opportunities to enhance the education of all students. National SAA programming can be more accessible via virtual and hybrid models, eliminating time and travel limitations as well as allowing interdisciplinary collaboration. As we work together to generate innovative ideas, I look forward to brainstorming how we can best support students in ways we have not previously, such as aiding our graduating students as they navigate a changing job market. I am so thankful to the Vanderbilt SAA Board for amazing friendship and wonderful educational, volunteer, and social experiences. It would be my honor to serve as a voice for audiology students across the country through the national SAA Board.
Shannon Kim – A.T. Still University
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
San Diego, CA
What is your favorite piece of advice or quote?
“Even after the darkest nights, even after the strongest storms- the sun will rise again. Maybe not right away but someday it will.” This quote taught me that although I went through difficult periods in my life, I was able to smile again. It doesn’t matter how many times you fall- it only matters when you get back up with the help of a hand from a loved one. You can’t control what happens in life but you can choose how to respond. Always remember that you don’t have to go through this journey alone. You are loved!
Who is your favorite Audiology celebrity and why?
Dr. Cliff on YouTube! He is passionate about Audiology and makes videos that center around hearing health, hearing aid reviews, etc. It’s important to educate the public about how important hearing is.
Any other fun facts you would like to share?
I was interviewed by Fox 5 San Diego/LA when I represented the city of San Diego for the Miss California Teen USA pageant. I shared about being recognized by the United Nations for the M:POWR project where I painted murals with adults with disabilities. Inclusivity is about ensuring that everyone gets the same opportunities. Just like there are glasses made for those with visual impairments, it’s important that we have accommodations for those with other disabilities. Another fun fact is that I jumped off the stratosphere tower in Las Vegas so I am a thrill seeker!
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
I want to bring the power of communication to light and how it can change our lives for the better. Communication is how we can express our thoughts, worries, etc. It’s also how we can hear words of comfort, affirmation, etc.
I would like to raise awareness about the importance of hearing health. While buying an expensive car can bring a sense of happiness, it can’t equate to the feelings of genuineness that human connection can give. Communication saved my life after I experienced a traumatic event and the loss of my friend who was the only one that comforted me while others made fun of me. How could the sun still rise every day? Life moved on but I was stuck. I felt very alone since I just left an abusive friendship and didn’t know what to do.
During my time as coordinator of the United Nations Association San Diego Chapter and Miss Golden State, I educated people about audiology and issues in underserved communities. It meant a lot to me when males struggling with their eating disorders thanked me after I made a project about that topic. If I could help so many people, then I should help myself as well. I made a new friend that taught me I am valued. All of this came from communicating my thoughts and me hearing her telling me that I am loved.
Communication is a gift that cannot be bought. It is something that is given through sincerity and self-thought.
Jovan Milanovic – A.T. Still University
Undergrad: University of Texas at Austin / Communication Sciences and Disorders
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
Austin, TX
What is your favorite piece of advice or quote?
“The past is behind, learn from it. The future is ahead, prepare for it. The present is here, live it.” Thomas S. Monson
Who is your favorite Audiology celebrity and why?
Dr. Cliff Olsen on Youtube, I like his content because it is very informative and easily watchable
Any other fun facts you would like to share?
I am Bilingual Serbian/English
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
Let’s talk about change. It wasn’t long ago when I was stuck between two professions, unsure of what to do next. Do I continue following my passion for healthcare, or do I work in a less fulfilling, yet easier career? Instead of framing it as a decision, I asked myself: “How could I make positive change in my life? How can I better myself?” I knew that change was not only imminent, but also necessary for me to answer those questions. I decided to follow my passion, which led me to a nomination for the national Student Academy of Audiology Board. I chose to run for this position because I’ve seen how positive change can make my life more fulfilling, more positive, and more rewarding. The truth is, change starts at the student level. We, the students, are the future of audiology. As cliche as it sounds, each and every one of us will be paving the way for a better future for our patients, families, and communities. Since making that positive change two years ago and enrolling at A.T. Still, I have acquired skills in organization, time management, and teamwork. I’ve also assumed a leadership position as Chair of the local service opportunity. To say I’m grateful for this opportunity would be an understatement. I know it won’t be easy, but in order to change the world for the better, we must first start with ourselves. I’m ready for positive change. Are you?
Janna Hines – Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
Undergrad: Georgia Southern University / Communication Sciences and Disorders + minor in Applied Behavior Analysis
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
I want my future home to be coastal, but also an urban oasis.
What is your favorite piece of advice or quote?
“The only thing stopping you is you.”
Who is your favorite Audiology celebrity and why?
Marion Downs made an incredible impact on the lives of millions with her push for newborn hearing screenings and educating others on the importance of early detection of hearing loss. Her work demonstrated the importance of being a child advocate.
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
I decided to run for the SAA Board because I want to make an impact on our community of students while expanding my knowledge of audiology outside of an educational environment. My previous experience with SAA includes volunteering this past year with the Communications Committee and starting an SAA chapter for my school during my time as an undergraduate student. Serving on the SAA Board provides an opportunity to educate others about audiology while also diving into some of the issues that we face as students, new graduates, and professionals. In addition, volunteering gives us a chance to advocate and make changes that allow audiology, as a profession, to adapt to the differing needs of society. Being a part of the SAA Board is also a learning opportunity for skill development in collaborative team efforts, time management, and leadership, which I feel are necessary skills for an audiologist. With the additional focus on increasing diversity in audiology, I would like to assist with outreach to underrepresented communities and make the undergraduate and graduate student experience more inclusive for minority students. My overall goal is to help make audiology a more visible profession so we can have more access to resources that better assist our patients, providers, and students.
Alexis Leiderman – City University of New York, Graduate Center
Undergrad: Binghamton University / Integrative Neuroscience
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
My hometown is a small, rural town called Lewisboro in New York, about an hour north of New York City. I grew up with the dream of someday living in NYC pursuing the field of audiology and am very grateful to have achieved that dream as I live in the Big Apple now! However, as much as I love being a city girl, my hometown will always be Lewisboro and I visit as frequently as possible.
What is your favorite piece of advice or quote?
“Sí se puede” or “yes you can” has been a phrase used in my nuclear family that I grew up saying when I felt down/needed a pick-me-up. I think especially in light of the current times, everyone can apply this quote to their own lives. Reminding ourselves of our goals and ambitions can help refocus our mindsets to reflect our true values and what we want to not only gain but give to this world!
Who is your favorite Audiology celebrity and why?
I don’t have a favorite “Audiology celebrity” per se, but my brother is my “Audiology hero”! He is a bilateral cochlear implant user and pursuing his dream to become a Physician Assistant!
Any other fun facts you would like to share?
I am a New York State Adirondack 46er, meaning I have climbed all 46 of New York’s tallest mountains (all being over 4,000 feet tall)!
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
I am running for President-Elect and Member-at-Large for the Student Academy of Audiology (SAA). I am highly committed, dedicated, and value the organization’s multifaceted mission to address current issues facing audiology students and the need to advocate for the future of the profession. Volunteerism and giving to others are attributes I value and have dedicated myself to in various leadership roles and boards I have served on. As a leader, I strive to stay highly organized, attuned to the differing points of views of others, and highly supportive of team cohesiveness. Serving on the SAA Board during the 2020-2021 term has given me a vast opportunity to learn about the different board member roles, tasks, and committees. I have been vocal for the call to action for more diversity, equity, and inclusion within our profession. I aspire for the SAA becoming more diverse as an organization. In my role as the Communications Committee Chair, I have focused on providing educational resources for student clinicians who are struggling to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.
I view advocacy as a key element to the SAA board’s mission including creating opportunities and interests for audiology students to be involved in educational, didactic, and experiential programs, while advocating for enhanced public awareness for the audiology profession. I am determined and motivated to continue delegating my time volunteering for the SAA and believe that I can continue to foster an engaging community for all SAA members.
Jasmin Rodriguez – California State University Northridge
Undergrad: California State University Northridge / Communicative Disorders
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
I was raised in Alhambra, CA; however I would consider Northridge, CA, my home. I moved there to get my Bachelor’s degree and I learned many of my adult skills.
What is your favorite piece of advice or quote?
“Inhale confidence, exhale doubt”. After overcoming many obstacles that really had me doubting myself, I learned to find strength from the resources around and within me. This quote is a simple reminder to make the best of any situation.
Who is your favorite Audiology celebrity and why?
Dr. Amit Gosalia is an audiologist, author, and public speaker. What impresses me the most about him is how he keeps the innovation of Audiology relevant through social media platforms, seminars, and connecting with the various SAA chapters. Additionally, I am impressed with his networking skills that have inspired me to expand my reach to fellow audiologists.
Any other fun facts you would like to share?
As a dancer, I have been fortunate enough to dance and do choreography with Mayte, the late musician Prince’s ex-wife, and the famed R&B female group, TLC.
I enjoy my summer visit to the Twin Cities (Minnesota) where I do my annual 5k and eat at my favorite restaurant Cossetta’s (St. Paul).
I speak four languages: English, Spanish, American Sign Language (ASL), and Spanish Sign Language (SSL).
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
As the SAA President of the California State University, Northridge (CSUN) Chapter and CSUN NSSLHA AuD Membership Officer, during a pandemic, we have faced and overcame many challenges that have made me a more astute and effective leader. I am sure all chapters have faced adversity during a worldwide pandemic. Some of the things we accomplished were unifying our strengths and procuring events we did not think were possible. We had guest speakers across the nation, created historical themes like trivia night for our members, collaborated with other chapters to advocate for audiology, and fundraised for the Face Forward organization. I hope to carry over the success to the SAA Board of Directors. I am dedicated to spreading awareness and advancement of those interested in the career as a future audiologist. I am very honored to be nominated.
Thank you for your consideration.
Haley Matthias – Ball State University
Undergrad: Indiana University / Epidemiology
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
Fort Wayne, Indiana
What is your favorite piece of advice or quote?
“It always seems impossible until it’s done” -Nelson Mandela
Any other fun facts you would like to share?
I love to hike and be outdoors. I have climbed multiple mountains in New Zealand.
I have Misophonia and enjoy informing others about the not commonly known disorder.
I have a love for research and focused on the opioid epidemic during my undergraduate education. As I continue to research in the field of audiology, I am very interested in seeing how ototoxicity of opioids affect the hearing of those who are opioid dependent.
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
I have decided to run for the SAA Board because of my passion for advocacy, education, and research in the audiology profession. In previous years, I have traveled to developing countries and locations here within the U.S. that struggle with poverty. Advocacy to help those in need of hearing screening, evaluation, and hearing aid dispensing is an area I am passionate about. Many individuals do not understand the importance of hearing health and wellness, and are not able to receive the resources needed to better their quality of life, including education. Education is not only important for us in the audiology profession, but for everyone. While we need to be constantly learning as professionals, we also need to be teaching. My favorite way of teaching is through social media. Social media is constantly growing, changing, and impacting our lives and will continue to do so, making it a perfect way to educate others about the importance of our profession. I am running for the SAA Board to allow more information about audiology to be shown to the public, but also to push for more research to be conducted in the profession. I believe research is a powerful tool for learning and relaying information to others. It allows us to become better clinicians, educators, and professionals.
I would love to be on the SAA Board and be a part of something bigger than myself with the ability to reach so many people through this organization.
Izabela Jamsek – The Ohio State University
Undergrad: The Ohio State University / Speech and Hearing Science
Where is your hometown, or the place you hope to call home?
Anywhere within walking distance of freshwater lake!
Any other fun facts you would like to share?
My dream theme party to throw is a 1920s-30s poker night.
Why do you want to run for Member-at-Large at SAA?
I am running for the SAA Board to contribute to and improve an organization that has been an integral part of my schooling, and that offers so many resources and opportunities to students. My goals on the board would involve recruitment, education, and advocacy. I think that participation in SAA results in more informed, dedicated, and connected new audiologists, which is critical for the future of our profession; one of my primary goals on the board would be to promote new student and chapter recruitment and support. In addition, I have hearing loss, and was the chair of the Students With Hearing Loss Subcommittee this year, where our focus was on education for audiology students and audiologists about advocacy and accessibility for people with hearing loss; I would want to continue this effort as well as provide further education for students in a number of areas, including current research, evidence-based practice, and professional development, during my time on the board. Lastly, the foundation of our profession rests in legislative advocacy, where we can effect the changes indicated by research and education; I would continue to promote and further the strong work that SAA and AAA have done in educating, connecting, and empowering students to advocate for changes to our profession at the local and national levels. My interest in SAA stems from my life experiences with hearing loss and my goals as a future audiologist-researcher, and I would be elated to contribute to this organization by serving on the board.
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