Volunteer Spotlight: Nancy Silbernagel, AuD

Why do you volunteer with the Academy?

I honestly feel like I have received as much as I have given in volunteering. I am very passionate and committed to creating health equity within our field, and it has been such a pleasure to connect with other audiologists with these same goals through my work on the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Committee. There are so many wonderful audiologists out there doing great work and connecting with them through these volunteer groups is inspiring and educational.

What is one thing that you can say volunteering has done for you and your personal success as an Audiologist?

Volunteering on the DEIB Committee was one of the best decisions I have made in my career. I have learned so much from other’s views and heard so many great ideas from committee members. It has been very motivating to me and I bring back that work and energy to everything I do at a local level in Cincinnati.

What is your favorite part of October?

I love everything about October! I love the fall colors, the cooler weather, and all the spooky stuff. There really is no better place to be for Halloween than a children’s hospital with all the kids excited about candy and costumes.

Who is your hero and why?

I have always greatly admired Ruth Bader Ginsburg for her perseverance in the fight against gender discrimination. One of my favorite quotes from her is: “Fight for the things that you care about. But do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”

(Although after watching the Paris Olympics, I am inclined to move Snoop Dogg up on my list of heroes as well).