Guests: Vicki R. Deal-Williams, MA, CCC-SLP, FASAE, CAE, ASHA's Chief Executive Officer, and Perry Flynn, MEd, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL, CTRI, ASHA-F, 2026 ASHA President Elect

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In this final episode of the Learning from Legends series, host Mary Beth Hines, MS, CCC-SLP, RYT200, and guest co-host Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, welcome ASHA leadership Vicki R. Deal-Williams, MA, CCC-SLP, FASAE, CAE, ASHA's Chief Executive Officer, and Perry Flynn, MEd, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL, CTRI, ASHA-F, 2026 ASHA President Elect, for an inside look at the evolving speech-language-hearing professions.

Together, they will explore emerging technologies, workforce trends, and ongoing efforts to recruit and retain professionals, particularly those from BIPOC communities. The conversation will also highlight the SLP Interstate Compact and provide practical guidance for students and early-career professionals navigating the field's evolving landscape.

About the Guests: Vicki Deal-Williams serves as the Chief Executive Officer for the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), where she has been a valued team member for more than three decades. A Certified Association Executive and distinguished Fellow of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), Vicki is also an ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist and ASHA Fellow. Her expertise lies in cultivating leadership, aligning strategic goals with organizational priorities, and navigating teams through transformation with clarity and purpose. She is known for authentically building strong, collaborative relationships and fostering a welcoming culture where everyone feels they have a voice. Through clear vision, steady guidance, and deep commitment, she works alongside volunteer leaders and members, students, vendors, partners, and staff to advance ASHA's mission, achieve optimal results, and ensure lasting impact.

Perry Flynn, MEd, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL, CTRI, is the Consultant to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction in the area of Speech-Language Pathology and a Professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He is a Fellow of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, a two-time member of ASHA's Board of Directors, and a Board Certified Specialist in Child Language. He is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) Certified Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructor. He has presented several times at ASHA Conventions on recruiting and retaining men and minorities in speech-language pathology and has written several articles on the topic.

Guests: Carol Koch, EdD, CCC-SLP, F-ASHA, BCS-CL, and Ann Kummer, PhD, MAT, CCC-SLP, F-ASHA

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In this conversation, esteemed clinicians and educators Dr. Carol Koch, EdD, CCC-SLP, F-ASHA, BCS-CL, and Dr. Ann Kummer, PhD, MAT, CCC-SLP, F-ASHA share their rich professional journeys and decades of expertise in the field of speech sound disorders.

Drs. Koch and Kummer reflect on the pivotal moments, mentors, and experiences that shaped their careers and fueled their passion for advancing clinical excellence. The episode also explores their influential contributions to the evaluation and treatment of speech sound disorders in children, offering evidence-based insights and practical strategies for clinicians in all settings.

About the Guests:

Dr. Ann Kummer, PhD, MAT, CCC-SLP, F-ASHA, retired after 44 years of distinguished service as Senior Director of the Division of Speech-Language Pathology at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and as Professor of Clinical Pediatrics and Otolaryngology at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine (UCCOM). She currently holds the title of Professor Emeritus at UCCOM. Dr. Kummer has made significant contributions to the field, with over 70 peer-reviewed articles, 31 book chapters, and four authoritative books, including the widely used Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Conditions: A Comprehensive Guide to Clinical Management, 4th Edition. This edition features an accompanying online graduate-level course with over 300 instructional videos. She co-developed the Simplified Nasometric Assessment Procedures (SNAP) test and created the SNAP-R, integrated into the PENTAX Medical nasometer. Dr. Kummer has delivered over 300 national and 100 international lectures and seminars on cleft palate, velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI), and craniofacial anomalies, and has taught graduate-level craniofacial courses at five universities. Her many honors include the prestigious Honors of the Association award from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), the organization’s highest recognition.

Carol Koch, EdD, CCC-SLP, ASHA Fellow, BCS-CL, is the Director of Curriculum and Professor for the MS-SLP program at Oklahomo Baptist University. Much of her clinical work has been in early intervention, with a focus on children with autism spectrum disorder and children with severe speech sound disorders, including childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). Her research and teaching interests have also encompassed early phonological development, clinical transcription, speech sound disorders, and CAS. Dr. Koch has been teaching, mentoring, and guiding students in various roles in higher education for the past 20 years. She has been honored as an ASHA Fellow and is a Board Certified Specialist in Child Language. Currently, Dr. Koch is working on the 2nd edition of her textbook, Clinical Management of Speech Sound Disorders: A Case-Based Approach. She is also a co-author of Contrast Cues for Speech and Literacy and the “Box of” set of cues for articulation therapy, including Multisyllabic Words, Prevocalic and Vocalic /ɹ/, and the /ɹ/ Inventory and Facilitating Contexts for Intervention, published by Bjorem Speech Publications.

Guest: Carole Zangari, PhD, CCC-SLP, ASHA-F, BCS-CL

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In celebration of AAC Awareness Month, Learning from Legends welcomes Dr. Carole Zangari, PhD, CCC-SLP, ASHA-F, BCS-CL, professor at Nova Southeastern University and long-standing leader in the field of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Hosted by Mary Beth Hines with co-host Elizabeth Ardoin, MS, CCC-SLP, this conversation explores the evolution of AAC within speech-language pathology, from early approaches to current best practices. Dr. Zangari reflects on pivotal research and shifts in AAC evaluation and intervention, highlights contributions that have shaped today’s practice, and shares her perspective on where AAC is headed.

Guest: Dr. Carole Zangari is a Professor in the Speech Language Pathology department at Nova Southeastern University (NSU), where she teaches graduate courses in AAC and serves as the Executive Director of the NSU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. She is a frequent presenter on AAC topics at international and national conferences. Dr. Zangari is the co-editor of Practically Speaking Language, Literacy, and Academic Development for Students with AAC Needs and co-author of TELL ME: AAC in the Preschool Classroom, TELL ME Más: CAA en el Aula Preescolar, and TELL ME, Too: Elementary and Middle School edition. Dr. Zangari also co-authored an online multimedia training module on AAC and Autism for OCALI. She blogs at www.PrAACticalAAC.org.

Guests: Brooke Hallowell, PhD, CCC-SLP, and Swathi Kiran, PhD, CCC-SLP

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Join host Mary Beth Hines and co-host Renee Garrett as they celebrate ASHA's 100th anniversary by discussing aphasia and neurogenic communication disorders with renowned experts Dr. Brooke Hallowell and Dr. Swathi Kiran. This episode delves into the journey of becoming a speech-language pathologist, key research advancements, neuroplasticity, the importance of a holistic approach, and the future of aphasia treatment. Tune in to hear personal stories, professional insights, and advice for future clinicians.

About the Guests: Brooke Hallowell, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, ASHA Fellow and Honors, is the President of Brain Empowerment, LLC, a global clinical consulting and research entity fostering empowering approaches to aphasia and other communication challenges. She also serves as Director of Research for Aphasia Recovery Connection, Consulting Editor for Plural Publishing, a member of the Board of Directors for Aphasia Access, a member of the Professional Advisory Council for the National Aphasia Association, a representative to the World Health Organization (WHO)’s World Rehabilitation Alliance, and an active WHO consultant. She formerly served as dean and professor at Springfield College, professor at Ohio University, and President of the Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders.

Swathi Kiran, PhD, CCC-SLP, F-ASHA, is the James and Cecelia Ying Professor of Neurorehabilitation in the Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences and the Founding Director for the Center for Brain Recovery at Boston University. The mission of the Center for Brain Recovery is to study neurological disorders in the brain while focusing on real outcomes for the patient. She has over 180 peer-reviewed papers in these fields and has been funded by NIH and the ASH Foundation. She currently serves on the NIDCD Advisory Council. She is the past-Board Chair for the Academy of Aphasia, Board Member for the National Aphasia Association, and the American Speech Language Hearing Foundation. She is the co-founder and scientific advisor for Constant Therapy Health, a software platform for rehabilitation tools after brain injury.

Guests: Alan Kamhi, PhD, CCC-SLP, F-ASHA, H-ASHA, and Carol Westby, PhD, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL

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Join host Mary Beth Hines and co-host Margot Kinzer for an enlightening episode of Keys for SLPs as they honor ASHA's 100th anniversary. This episode features an in-depth discussion with two legends in the field of Speech Language Pathology, Dr. Carol Westby and Dr. Alan Kamhi. Discover their extensive contributions to the field, pivotal research, and significant changes in child language treatment over the years. Learn about the importance of diagnosing Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), the evolution of methodologies in speech therapy, and the future of assessments with AI. This episode offers invaluable insights for both new and experienced clinicians.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Disclosures

01:01 Meet the Legends: Dr. Carol Westby and Dr. Alan Kamhi

03:08 Fun Facts: Ducks and Astronaut Dreams

06:42 Journey into Speech Pathology

13:32 Evolution of Language Disorders Treatment

19:13 Pivotal Research in Child Language

35:58 Challenges in Setting Appropriate Goals

36:21 Examples of Functional Language Goals

39:59 Research Needs and Simple Solutions

42:12 Global Perspectives on Child Language

45:32 Significant Changes in the Field

52:34 Advice for New Clinicians

58:55 Hopes for the Future of the Profession

01:00:42 Q&A and Final Thoughts

About the Guests:

Dr. Carol Westby, PhD, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL, is a consultant for Bilingual Multicultural Services in Albuquerque, NM, and holds an affiliated appointment in Communication Disorders at Brigham Young University in Provo, UT. She is a fellow of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), has received the Honors of ASHA and the Kleffner Lifetime Clinical Achievement Award, and holds Board Certification in Child Language and Language Disorders. Dr. Westby has received the Distinguished Alumnus Award from Geneva College and the University of Iowa's Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, and the ASHA Award for Contributions to Multicultural Affairs. She has published and presented nationally and internationally on theory of mind, narrative/expository development and facilitation, adverse childhood experiences/trauma, qualitative methodologies, assessment and facilitation of written language, metacognition/executive function/ADHD, and issues in assessment and intervention with culturally/linguistically diverse populations. Dr. Westby has a BA in English from Geneva College and an MA and PhD in Speech Pathology from the University of Iowa.

Dr. Alan Kamhi, PhD, CCC-SLP, F-ASHA, H-ASHA, is a Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders at UNC Greensboro. He has published widely in the areas of speech, language, and reading. His recent books include Language and Reading Disabilities, co-authored with Hugh Catts. He received the Honors of the Association in 2014.

Guests: Jack Katz, PhD, CCC-A/SLP, and James Hall III, PhD

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Join Mary Beth Hines, host of the 'Keys for SLPs - Learning from Legends' series, and co-host Dr. Dakota Sharp, as they celebrate ASHA's 100th anniversary by interviewing two legendary audiologists, Dr. James Hall and Dr. Jack Katz. This episode dives into the extensive careers, groundbreaking research, and invaluable contributions of Dr. Hall and Dr. Katz to the field of audiology. They share personal stories, pivotal moments, and discuss the evolution and future of audiology. A perfect listen for SLPs, audiologists, students, and professionals interested in the history and future of this vital field.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome

00:45 Financial and Non-Financial Disclosures

01:25 Introducing the Esteemed Guests

01:45 Dr. James Hall's Background and Career

02:38 Dr. Jack Katz's Background and Career

04:25 Personal Stories and Fun Facts

07:24 Early Career Influences and Audiology Pathways

12:19 Challenges and Resilience in Education

16:29 Early Audiology Interests and Specializations

26:38 Evolution of Auditory Processing Disorders

32:34 Evolution of Clinical Audiology

33:46 The Audiologist's Reference

36:05 Changes in the Handbook of Clinical Audiology

38:09 Pivotal Research in Audiology

51:52 Future of Audiology

55:16 Advice for Aspiring Audiologists

58:15 The Value of Professional Relationships

01:02:15 Conclusion and Contact Information

About the Guests:

James W. Hall III, PhD, is an internationally recognized audiologist with over 40 years of experience in clinical practice, teaching, research, and administration. He received his bachelor’s degree in biology from American International College, his master's degree in Speech Pathology from Northwestern University, and his Ph.D. in Audiology from Baylor College of Medicine under the direction of James Jerger. During his career, Dr. Hall has held clinical and academic positions in audiology at major medical centers. A founder of the American Academy of Audiology, Dr. Hall has held numerous leadership roles in the organization. Dr. Hall is the author of over 200 peer-reviewed publications, invited articles, and book chapters, as well as 12 textbooks. Dr. Hall currently holds academic appointments as Professor (part-time) at Salus University and the University of Hawaiʻi, as well as a position as Extraordinary Professor at the University of Pretoria, South Africa, and other adjunct and visiting professor positions in the USA and abroad.

Dr. Jack Katz has been involved in the study of central auditory disorders for over six decades. He graduated from Brooklyn College in 1956 with a degree in Speech Pathology. He went on to receive a master’s degree in Speech Pathology from Syracuse University. Dr. Katz began his doctorate in Speech Pathology, but he switched to Audiology to work with Dr. Aubrey Epstein. He served as a Fulbright-Hays Senior Lecturer at Hacettepe University in Ankara, Turkey. He founded the speech and hearing clinic at Menorah Medical Center and taught at the University at Buffalo for 28 years, as well as at the University of Kansas Medical School. Dr. Katz published the first edition of the Handbook of Clinical Audiology in 1972. After retiring from his academic career, he opened a private practice, Auditory Processing Service, in Kansas City, which he has since closed. Dr Katz has edited the sixth and seventh editions of the Handbook of Clinical Audiology, two editions of Therapy for Auditory Processing Disorders, and contributed to numerous articles, research projects, and lectures. And, of course, he helped found IGAPS.

Guests: Catriona Steele, PhD, CCC-SLP, S-LP(C), Reg. CASLPO, F-ESSD, ASHA Honors, and John Ashford, PhD, CCC-SLP

Hosted by: Mary Beth Hines, MS, CCC-SLP, RYT® 200, and Christina Liem, MS, CCC-SLP

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Join host Mary Beth Hines and co-host Christina Liem in this special episode of the 'Keys for SLPs Learning from Legends' series, celebrating ASHA's 100th anniversary. This episode features interviews with renowned professionals, Dr. John Ashford and Dr. Catriona Steele. They share their incredible journeys in the field of speech-language pathology, the evolution of treatments for swallowing disorders, and groundbreaking research. Learn about the significant advances in dysphagia assessment, the pivotal role of instrumental tools, and the importance of standardized protocols. Discover fascinating insights into the future of the field, including the impacts of oral hygiene on overall health and the need for better education for upcoming SLPs. Perfect for both seasoned professionals and those new to the field, this episode is packed with invaluable knowledge and advice.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Disclosures

00:54 Meet the Guests: Dr. John Ashford and Dr. Catriona Steele

03:25 Fun Facts About Our Guests

07:05 Journey into Speech-Language Pathology

14:34 Evolution of Swallowing Disorder Treatments

21:30 Pivotal Research in Dysphagia

28:40 Pivotal Publications in Dysphagia Research

31:49 The Role of Aspiration in Pneumonia

33:23 Oral Hygiene and Systemic Health

37:32 Future Research Directions in Dysphagia

51:06 Significant Changes in Dysphagia Assessment

58:14 Advice for Aspiring Speech-Language Pathologists

01:02:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About the Guests:

Catriona M. Steele is a clinician scientist working on swallowing and swallowing disorders. She has a background as a medical speech-language pathologist. She is Director of the Swallowing Rehabilitation Research Laboratory (www.steeleswallowinglab.ca) at the KITE Research Institute, the research arm of the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Health Network. Dr. Steele is a Professor in the Department of Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Toronto and holds a Canada Research Chair in Swallowing and Food Oral Processing. Professor Steele holds research funding from the National Institutes of Health (USA) and maintains several active industry partnerships. A full list of her publications can be accessed at https://www.orcid.org/0000-0002-4294-6561. She was a founding member of the Board of Directors for the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (www.iddsi.org) and served on their board from 2012 to 2023. Catriona recently served as the 2024-2025 President of the Dysphagia Research Society.

John R. Ashford, Ph.D., is Education Director and co-owner of SA Swallowing Services, Nashville, Tennessee, USA. He is a Navy Veteran, a retired Medical Speech-Language Pathologist for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and previously served as a tenured Associate Professor at Tennessee State University, adjunct Assistant Clinical Professor at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, and guest professor at Dar Al-Hekma University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. He has been published and a member of ASHA for 58 years. Professional interests include understanding factors associated with pneumonia development in patients with dysphagia, and educating and training providers of FEES services.

Guests: Edie Hapner, PhD, CCC-SLP, and Christine Sapienza, PhD, CCC-SLP

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Join Mary Beth Hines, host of the 'Keys for SLPs Learning from Legends' series in honor of ASHA's 100th anniversary, as she co-hosts alongside Christina Liem. This episode features renowned experts Dr. Edie Hapner and Dr. Christine Sapienza. Dr. Hapner, a professor of Otolaryngology at UAB Voice Center, and Dr. Sapienza, Executive Vice President at Jacksonville University, share their extensive careers and contributions to speech pathology. Learn about the evolution of voice disorder treatments, pivotal research, and the field's future direction. Both legends also highlight the importance of mentorship and innovation in advancing speech-language pathology.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Disclosures

01:12 Meet the Legends: Dr. Edie Hapner and Dr. Christine Sapienza

04:45 Personal Journeys into Speech Pathology

09:19 Evolution of Voice Disorder Treatments

17:20 Pivotal Research in Voice Disorders

21:43 Future Directions in Voice Disorder Research

34:16 The Evolution of Clinical Confidence

35:20 Advancements in Voice Therapy Techniques

38:22 The Role of Botox in Voice Therapy

40:47 Understanding Vocal Fold Anatomy

43:16 Future Developments in Voice Therapy

49:11 The Importance of Specialization and Certification

57:00 Memorable Case Studies and Innovations

01:00:55 Final Thoughts and Advice for New Clinicians

About the Guests:

Edie R. Hapner is the George W. Barber Jr. Foundation Endowed Professor of Otolaryngology, the Co-Director of the UAB Voice Center, and the Director of the Division of Hearing and Speech in the Department of Otolaryngology at the University of Alabama, Birmingham. She is a Fellow of ASHA and an Associate Fellow of the American Laryngological Association. She has over 40 years of professional experience and has co-founded three inter-professional voice centers. She has served on the ASHA Board of Directors as the VP of Planning, the SIG 3 Voice and Voice Disorders Chair, and the 2022 ASHA National Convention co-chair. She is a founding member of PAVES, a founding member of the committee to develop Board Certification in Voice, served on multiple society committees for the AAOHNS, and is a Board Member of the Alabama Voice Foundation and medical advisor to the Alabama Dystonia International chapter. She is the co-developer of PhoRTE Voice Therapy. She has published over 90 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, is the co-editor of Voice Therapy Clinical Case Studies editions 4, 5 and 6 and is the developer of the voice curriculum for Medbridge, Inc. Dr. Hapner’s notes her greatest achievement is the mentoring of 22 consecutive voice and upper airway centric speech language pathology clinical fellows and 50+ graduate and undergraduate student clinical and research interns.

Dr. Christine Sapienza is the Executive Vice President for Partnerships and Development, former Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs at Jacksonville University. She joined JU in 2013 as Dean of the College of Healthcare Sciences. Before her role at JU, she served as Chair of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Florida. Dr. Sapienza has authored and co-authored over 125 published academic works, including Voice Disorders (4th Edition), a widely used textbook in speech science and communication disorders. She holds a Ph.D. in Speech Science from the University at Buffalo.