Advocacy Ambassador Program

Wednesday, April 22, 2:15-3:00 PM

Presenters: Tina Stern, AuD; Joanne Zurcher, MPP; Michelle Moore

Academy volunteer and staff advocacy leaders will provide a clear, practical look at how audiologists can navigate the complexities of federal policymaking and advance the profession’s priorities. This session offers real-world examples, interactive discussion, and proven strategies to help participants build influence, engage effectively with key legislative stakeholders, and organize impactful advocacy efforts at the national level. Attendees will leave with a stronger understanding of the federal landscape, greater confidence in their ability to communicate with policymakers, and the tools needed to drive meaningful change through informed, sustained advocacy.

Thursday, April 23, 3:30-4:00 PM

Presenters: Tina Stern, AuD; Joanne Zurcher, MPP; Michelle Moore

This session offers a clear, comprehensive overview of current state legislative and regulatory trends while equipping audiology leaders with the foundational tools needed to engage confidently in advocacy efforts. Participants will learn how to communicate effectively with policymakers and coalition partners, leverage the Academy’s State Policy Advocate Network (SPAN), and strengthen their ability to influence policy that supports both the profession and the patients they serve.

AAA volunteers and staff advocacy leaders will provide a detailed look at emerging issues across the country and share real-world examples that illustrate how state advocacy efforts take shape. Attendees will gain practical strategies for organizing grassroots initiatives, building influence, and driving meaningful change at the state level. Designed as a springboard into the State Policy Advocate Network Meeting, this session empowers participants to take an informed, active role in shaping audiology policy nationwide.

Thursday, April 23, 4:15-5:15 PM

Presenters: Tina Stern, AuD; Joanne Zurcher, MPP; Michelle Moore

The State Policy Advocate Network (SPAN) session provides an overview of the current legislative and regulatory issues shaping audiology. Academy staff will highlight recent state-level developments, emerging trends, and ongoing advocacy initiatives, offering participants a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities influencing the profession at the state level.

Following the presentation, attendees will engage in interactive roundtable discussions organized by issue area. These small-group conversations allow participants to share experiences from their states, compare strategies, examine what has worked well and challenges remaining, and explore common themes emerging nationwide. Designed to foster collaboration and strengthen state-focused advocacy, this session equips leaders with insights and peer-driven strategies to support effective policy engagement in their home states.

Friday, April 24, 4:30-5:15 PM

Presenters: Melissa Heche, AuD; Joanne Zurcher, MPP; Michelle Moore

This capstone session marks the completion of the four-part Ambassador Program and prepares participants to step into their role as official Advocacy Ambassadors. Attendees will learn practical strategies for planning and conducting successful grassroots meetings, communicating clear and compelling messages to policymakers, and leveraging the Political Action Committee (PAC) to advance audiology’s priorities. Through interactive discussion and real-world examples, participants will build the confidence and skills needed to drive impactful advocacy efforts and serve as strong representatives of the profession at both the state and federal levels. If participants attended all four sessions of this track, they will receive an official badge at the session’s end.