National SAA Past President Interview: Liz Fuemmeler, AuD

Celebrating 15 Years of National SAA!

Over the past decade and a half, the national Student Academy of Audiology (SAA) has accomplished so much as an organization, building a strong foundation for the future of the audiology profession. The success and growth of national SAA is contributed largely in part to the vision and leadership of its past presidents. To honor and reflect on their hard work, the national SAA communications committee conducted an interview series with several national SAA past presidents.

Our next interview is with Liz Fuemmeler (she/her) who earned her AuD at Purdue University in Indiana. Dr. Fuemmeler served as national SAA president between 2018-2019.

Why did you originally join the national SAA?

To get involved with the larger audiology community.

How long did you serve on the national SAA Board of Directors or as a volunteer for national SAA?

I served on the Board of Directors for three years (president-elect, president, past president) and volunteered one year before that. Fun fact: I was the SAA first president-elect!

What is the most valuable lesson you learned from being a member of national SAA?

You are only as strong as your resources and the profession only advances with volunteers.

What is your favorite memory from your term as national SAA President?

Hosting the 10-year anniversary of the SAA party!

Where are you working now?

I’m currently work as a balance clinical product manager at Interacoustics. I help develop the software tests and features for vestibular evaluation.

In what ways did being involved in national SAA influence your career?

SAA connected me with my first job and gave me connections to colleagues all around the country. I am only as successful because of my influences and peer mentors.

Are you currently involved with the American Academy of Audiology?

Yes, I volunteered on the New Professionals Committee and I am an  advisor to the SAA.

What’s one piece of advice you would like to share with current SAA members?

Get involved in any way you can, using the skills and talents you have! Volunteering is difficult and takes sacrifice, but is worth it for building your professional network and skillset.

This interview was completed by Eliana Dachman, a third-year audiology student at the CUNY Graduate Center in New York, NY. Eliana is a member of the SAA Communication Committee.