Descriptions of Areas of Excellence

Goes beyond the day-to-day work routine by giving back to the profession through service to the American Academy of Audiology and/or Audiology-focused Boards. Encourages networking and demonstrates leadership qualities marked by excellent verbal and written communication skills. Is a good listener who synthesizes presented information into a productive outcome. Masters organizational skills and contributes to decision-making that advances the mission of the Board.

Exhibits a consistent commitment to participation and engagement in advocacy efforts at the local, state, and national levels pertaining to audiology issues, including protection of professional interests, the advancement of the profession to enhance patient care, and equity in access to care. This encompasses outreach to elected officials and policy makers and/or involvement in government visits.

Demonstrates a long-term dedication to mentoring professionals and/or students, through clinical practices, research, and professional development with a track record of positively influencing multiple mentees over time. Facilitates mentees' career advancement through strategic networking, professional opportunities, and continuous encouragement and showcases tangible successes, such as mentees achieving notable career milestones, publishing research, or gaining prestigious positions.

Demonstrates significant contributions to evidence-based clinical practice through developing widely accepted or adopted clinical procedures and protocols. Displays commitment to lifelong learning and clinical skill development through consistently leading lectures, discussions, and/or earning meaningful professional designations that advance their clinical expertise. Additionally uses evidence-based knowledge to collaborate with other professionals on projects which promote optimal patient outcomes.

Demonstrates consistent and substantive effort in educating the community (lay people) about the impact of hearing and balance disorders as well as the important role audiologists play in diagnosis and treatment of these disorders. These efforts may include, but are not limited to presentations to the public, publications in lay periodicals for public awareness/education, production of video/podcasts, television and radio interviews, and health fairs.

Exhibits consistent engagement in research or quality improvement efforts aimed at advancing audiological outcomes. Contributions may include publications in peer-reviewed journals, participation in clinical trials, development of innovative practices or care delivery models, or implementation of quality improvement projects to enhance patient outcomes and clinical efficiency.

Shows consistent presentation or publication of hearing and balance research, clinical application, or consumer education in any media, including presentations at national or state conferences, publications in peer-reviewed journals, production of video/podcast resources for education of audiologists, allied health care professionals, or the public, or online publications (e.g., websites, blogs, etc.). Please highlight contributions to Academy-based dissemination pathways (AAA Convention presentations, articles in Audiology Today or the Journal of the American Academy of Audiology (JAAA), Academy website contributions, etc.)

Demonstrates consistent ability to motivate individuals to develop unique skills that allow for growth and professional development. A leader provides a clear vision, sets goals, and encourages collaboration within and beyond the entity. Effective leadership manifests itself at the local, state, and /or national level. Creates a positive workplace culture that is palpable to all stakeholders.

Contributes to advancing the profession of audiology through meaningful educational initiatives. Creates and implements cutting-edge educational programs and courses that address current trends and future needs in audiology. Delivers high-quality, engaging instruction that inspires and equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful careers in audiology.

Demonstrates consistent interprofessional collaboration or engagement in interdisciplinary research or practice, shows efforts to provide interprofessional education for the advancement of hearing/balance information to allied healthcare professionals, or other professionals that serve individuals with hearing and/or balance needs, engages in leadership roles for interprofessional organizations, research endeavors, or clinical advancement efforts.

Demonstrates significant contributions to the profession of audiology through military service, including research, leadership, and/or program development within the military system (i.e. VA, DoD, military hospital, etc.). Highlights efforts to advance hearing and balance care for military personnel and veterans, showcasing the unique challenges and opportunities of military audiology.