What is your background in audiology?
I initially found audiology through research in undergrad. I fell in love with it because of the combination of medicine, working with people, and technology. I studied at the University of Washington, then the University of Pittsburgh for my AuD and PhD. I worked at the medical center in Pittsburgh while working on my PhD.
I got a job at the University of South Dakota, where I was teaching, seeing patients, and doing research. I love the different facets of the job. I became chair of the department in 2021.
Why do you volunteer with the Academy?
Our professional organizations are what make changes in the profession. Volunteering with the Academy allows us to see the changes and make decisions about where efforts are focused. I volunteer because I want what is best for my profession.
What is one thing that you can say volunteering has done for you and your personal success as an Audiologist?
Connections with other people. Our profession is rich with amazing, giving, and wonderful people. I have been lucky to volunteer with so many of these people.
What would the title of your autobiography be?
Doing What Needs to Be Done. My goal is to look around and see what needs to be done and then collect the team to do it alongside me.
That, or Helium Hand Syndrome–the Art of Saying Yes. I am not sure anyone would really get this but I am always one to volunteer for things, raising my hand to help and doing what needs to be done.
If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?
Whoever is sitting next to me on the plane on the way to the show. Everyone has a story that deserves to be told.
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