Past Spotlights

Member Since

2020

Introduction

Theresa is a medically based speech-language pathologist (SLP) who has worked in a pediatric outpatient department since August 2021. She provides assessment and treatment to patients with a range of medical diagnoses and speech-language communication disorders. In October 2023, Theresa was awarded the first overall, hospital-wide award for embodying compassion, clinical excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration and promotion of patient/colleague engagement.

Theresa earned her master’s and undergraduate degrees from Montclair State University.

As a graduate student, she was an active member of NSSLHA and served as the president of the Montclair State Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (MSSHLA). Theresa also participated in many NJSHA student-run activities at Montclair State University.

Like many NJSHA members, Theresa first learned about NJSHA while attending graduate school. She was interested in finding additional resources to supplement what she was learning in her graduate school program and became a member in 2020. Theresa discovered that NJSHA offered many student-centered educational seminars and networking opportunities. She realized the benefits of belonging to an association that promotes and supports her profession. Since joining, Theresa has been an active member of NJSHA’s Membership Committee, which actively collaborates with the Student Involvement Committee to plan virtual events for students and the annual Community Caring Connect (CCC) project which takes place at the Annual Convention.

In her spare time, Theresa enjoys traveling. She has visited London and Paris and plans to travel to Italy and Lebanon. One of her goals as a proud Lebanese American is to become completely fluent in Arabic. She would love to be able to serve her community as a certified bilingual English-Arabic SLP in the future.

Theresa sat down with VOICES to share why she is a member of NJSHA and what excites her about her profession.

What excites you most about your contributions to your profession?
I am very passionate about working with the pediatric population. I currently evaluate and treat pediatric patients with speech-sound disorders, fluency disorders, language difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy and various genetic syndromes. I truly enjoy forming meaningful relationships with my patients and their caregivers while I help them find their own voice. Being able to help a child communicate their wants, thoughts and ideas is so fulfilling and their caregivers are always so appreciative of the positive changes I help facilitate. I am constantly motivated by my patients, and I love to help them accomplish their goals.

What professional accomplishment are you most excited about?
Earning my Certificate of Clinical Competence has been my biggest and proudest accomplishment so far. Completing my graduate school program and starting to work at the height of a pandemic brought on very difficult challenges; however, it made it even more rewarding to achieve this goal. I am so thankful for all of my professors and clinical supervisors who played integral roles in getting me to where I am now.

Why did you join NJSHA?
I joined NJSHA as a student because I was interested in finding additional professional resources. It is such a full-circle experience now that I am involved in NJSHA’s Membership Committee and I can present to students as a licensed SLP.

How do you suggest others can get (more) involved in NJSHA?
I would strongly encourage professionals to get involved in NJSHA’s committees. Each committee has something unique to offer; however, all of them provide an invaluable opportunity to collaborate with other professionals and to get involved in community outreach programs.

Who is your “NJSHA Hero” and why?
My NJSHA Hero is, without a doubt, Catherine Curtis. Catherine is an SLP and an active member of NJSHA on the board of directors. She serves as the 2024 Convention Co-Chair and participates on both Membership and Healthcare Committees. Catherine and I first met during my graduate school externship at a pediatric outpatient hospital in 2021. She instantly became a very dear colleague, friend and extraordinary mentor. Catherine consistently exhibits unwavering compassion, leadership and well-rounded clinical expertise. Her dedication to our field transcends across all her work settings and her involvement in NJSHA. I will always be so grateful that Catherine motivated me to join NJSHA’s Membership Committee. Without her, I wouldn’t have been able to make so many meaningful connections, share clinical advice with students and make an impact in our community through the CCC project. I look up to Catherine so much and I hope to follow in her footsteps going forward in my career.

Do you have a greatest “NJSHA moment”? If so, what was it?
My greatest NJSHA moment to date would be the CCC project in 2023. I was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to co-facilitate this project to support the needs of children in a New Jersey hospital’s pediatric inpatient unit. Oftentimes, patients in the inpatient unit do not have enough clothes or bibs to change into during their stay at the hospital. With the help of Catherine Curtis and the generosity of NJSHA members we were able to collect approximately $500 worth of baby clothes, bibs, hats and socks for patients of various ages. We also created inspirational greeting cards to comfort and encourage caregivers. It was an incredibly rewarding experience to be able to donate these items to the hospital. It also reinforced the fact that I truly can make a difference with the help of NJSHA.

What is the next challenge you would like to undertake, both professionally and with NJSHA? Why?
Professionally, I am looking forward to participating in a mentorship program to grow my clinical skill set in behavioral and sensory-based feeding disorders within the pediatric population. While I currently evaluate and treat patients with speech, language and fluency deficits, many of my current patients also present with feeding difficulties. It is my goal to be able to provide them with comprehensive and holistic care.

I would also love to get involved in NJSHA’s Multicultural Committee. I believe it’s important to promote cultural awareness so that all professionals, students, patients and caregivers are given the same opportunities to reach their fullest potential.

What is something surprising or unexpected you have learned through your work?
I learn something new every day! Our scope of practice is so wide and, as a relatively new clinician, I have discovered that I will always be a learner with room for improvement. When I was in graduate school, I thought I was expected to know everything before working; however, I quickly learned that each interaction with a patient, caregiver and/or professional brings new growth opportunities. I am fortunate enough to work with an incredible team of SLPs that I can lean on for clinical advice. I am also so thankful for the resources I have access to for continuing my education.

Why should professionals join this organization?
NJSHA gives professionals the ability to connect, further their education and advocate for improvements within our fields. Through NJSHA, professionals have the opportunity to collaborate and learn from each other, while also raising awareness about various issues related to speech-language pathology and audiology in New Jersey. I believe it is imperative to be an active member of your professional association and community to truly make a positive impact.

I believe that NJSHA is not only for professionals. Students can truly benefit from being a part of this association. The access to resources and the ability to network with other professionals is so valuable. Being a part of this association can only benefit someone working in the fields of speech-language pathology and audiology.

Member Since

2012

Introduction

Kristen is an associate professor in the Master of Science Speech-Language Pathology Program at Rutgers University School of Health Professions in Newark where she has beensince July 2022. She has had many roles as a speech-language pathologist (SLP) throughout her career and has worked in various settings since 2005, including higher education. She also was a clinician in early intervention and preschools and the owner of a private practice. Throughout her career, she has been an active volunteer in the field of speech-language pathology.

Kristen has been a member of NJSHA since 2012; she has made many remarkable contributions to the profession of speech-language pathology. She was selected to participate in leadership academies from various organizations such as the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and The Council for Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CAPCSD). In 2021, she was appointed by the Governor to the New Jersey Audiology and Speech-Language-Pathology Advisory Committee, to serve as an active member, representing SLPs.
Kristen earned her doctorate (PhD) from the City University of New York, her master’s degree (MA) from Emerson College and her undergraduate degree from James Madison University (BA).

Kristen, her husband and two teenage children live in Westfield. Her newest member of the family is a goldendoodle named Willie. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, taking Willie on walks and running. In 2022, she ran the Chicago marathon to raise funds for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America, in memory of a good friend. She says it was a tough run, but it was for a cause dear to her heart.

Kristen sat down with VOICES to discuss her many contributions to NJSHA:

What excites you most about your contributions to your profession?
I am always excited to interact with, guide and mentor the next generation of SLPs. I decided to pursue a doctoral degree to do research and obtain a faculty position. I love teaching, and I feel that my contribution to the profession grows with each graduating class.
What professional accomplishment would you say you are most excited about?

I am proud of the way I worked steadily towards my doctorate while starting a family, moving from New York to New Jersey and working continuously as a clinician. I am honored to be able to contribute to several different speech-language pathology programs in the state since becoming a professor. Most recently, I am extremely excited about a new grant-funded opportunity to partner with a school district to conduct research that will be impactful within the community.

With such a strong professional foundation, why join NJSHA?
I initially joined NJSHA as a new faculty member in New Jersey as a way to connect with other professors and researchers in the state. I joined the Higher Education Committee for this reason.

There is value in being a part of an association in which you can learn so much about different experiences from other professionals. The networking and connections I have made both professionally and personally have been so beneficial to fostering my career.

What is your advice to other professionals about why they should join NJSHA?
I don’t know if most people realize how much our professional practice guidelines are determined at the state level. We all know about ASHA certification and standards, but each state operates differently.

NJSHA is an important resource and is hugely influential in advocating for SLPs and AUDs in the state. There is power in numbers, and NJSHA must remain a critical voice in Trenton. There are so many important issues impacting our professions, and with NJSHA’s support, we can make a bigger impact.

It is also a wonderful way to grow your professional network. You never know when you may want to make a professional change, and knowing people through NJSHA who work in varied settings can really give you an advantage in your career development.

How do you suggest others can get (more) involved in NJSHA?
I encourage everyone to join a committee! There is truly something for everyone, depending on your area of practice and interest. The time commitment can be as much or as little as you can contribute, and it’s the BEST way to network and connect with other professionals. You can go to the website, find an interest and attend a meeting. You can start by listening and learning, and then think about ways you can get involved when you are ready. It’s as simple as that. Being on a committee doesn’t have to be time-consuming.

Who is your “NJSHA Hero” and why?
I don’t think I can choose just one. I’ve been so fortunate to work closely with several of the recent past presidents including Mary Faella, Robynne Kratchman and Kathy Palatucci, current president Donna Spillman-Kennedy and president-elect Natalie Neubauer. Each of these women has modeled leadership, advocacy and a commitment to the association that I find so admirable.

Do you have a greatest “NJSHA moment”? If so, what was it?
For the past several years, in my capacity as chair of the Higher Ed Committee, I have organized a Student Advocacy Day in Trenton. We have been successful at securing funds from an ASHA State Association Grant to support this endeavor. Students from each New Jersey program in speech-language pathology and audiology gets to meet with our NJSHA lobbyists and learn about how legislation gets passed and how NJSHA has advocated successfully in the past for laws that benefit clients and our professions. What makes this a great “NJSHA moment” each year is to meet students from across the state and to see how energized and engaged they are. I am consistently impressed, and it makes me excited about the future of NJSHA.

What is the next challenge you would like to undertake, both professionally and with NJSHA?
I am interested in the challenge of connecting local university programs and researchers with clinicians in the state. There is such potential for mutually beneficial work to be done! I am pleased to have been awarded grant funds through the Rutgers Equity Alliance for Community Health (REACH) program for 2023-24 to conduct community-engaged research with the Newark Board of Education Schools. The REACH program focuses on social determinants of health and encourages research teams to truly partner with community stakeholders on sustainable projects. It is a challenging endeavor, but I hope that our project can serve as a model that could be replicated in other communities.

I would like to further elaborate that this project became possible because of a conversation I had with a NJSHA member, Nicole Ford, at one of our committee meetings. Nicole and I were talking about what we do and she told me that she works for the Newark schools. This led to a conversation about how our respective departments could connect and work together. One simple conversation at a NJSHA meeting led to this amazing project that will benefit so many!

Member Since

2021

Introduction

Amber is a recent speech-language pathology (SLP) graduate student from Seton Hall University. Over the summer, she worked as a graduate student researcher with Seton Hall University, working in the Voice Analytics, Neurodiagnostic and Rehabilitation Lab.

Amber worked as an SLP assistant in Connecticut before attending graduate school. During her master’s program, she worked in various settings including an elementary school, working with students in self-contained classrooms to a specialized high school for those with multiple disabilities. Her third and final rotation was in a hospital setting, working in the Speech-Language Pathology Outpatient Department. Amber feels the clinical rotations and the opportunity to practice her skills and treat people across the lifespan with various conditions made her love for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) grow.

Amber was an active member of the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSLHA) during graduate school. She was the co-president of Seton Hall University’s graduate chapter and also served as the NSSLHA New Jersey Student State Officer (SSO). She has volunteered for several fundraising events throughout the duration of her graduate program. Throughout graduate school, Amber received several awards and scholarships including a Graduate Merit Award from the Executive Women of New Jersey, Med Travelers Scholarship Award, as well as recognition from Seton Hall University where she received the All-Around Student Award and The Research Project Award.

Amber became a student member of NJSHA in 2021, after her professor, Dr. Natalie Neubauer recommended she join. Dr. Neubauer encouraged her to get involved and take advantage of the many opportunities she would have through NJSHA, personally and professionally. Amber is so grateful to Dr. Neubauer, as being a part of NJSHA has guided her in so many ways. Amber actively participated in NJSHA’s Augmentative and Alternative Communication Committee (AAC) and Student Involvement Committee (SIC). She worked with AAC members to increase community outreach by developing no-tech paper-based communication boards for local libraries. Amber along with fellow committee members collaborated on a range of microprojects. AAC and Multicultural Committees joined forces to translate the NJSHA AAC brochure into multiple languages to assist non-English-speaking parents. As a member of the SIC, she helped develop and presented at web-based Student Connect events that helped student members build their therapy toolkit. Amber also was a co-presenter at the 2023 NJSHA Convention where students had the opportunity to learn about AAC and have hands-on experience communicating with different systems.

This fall, Amber will be attending the University of Pittsburgh to begin her doctorate in rehabilitation sciences and technology. She will be receiving advanced training in AAC, performance measurement and brain-computer interface (BCI) access.

Amber moved from Connecticut to New Jersey to attend graduate school. She still feels that Connecticut has the best pizza, but New Jersey has the best bagels. As another chapter begins, Amber and her two rabbits, Cleo and Boo Boo, will miss the many friends they made, both personally and professionally. They were the support she needed to help her through her master’s program. Amber would like other students to know that if they are a struggling student, consider joining NJSHA to further grow their network because they will meet some “awesome professionals.” Amber plans on staying connected with NJSHA while pursuing her doctorate and being an active member of this great association which has helped her grow in so many ways!

Amber sat down with VOICES to discuss her relationship with NJSHA:

Why did you join NJSHA as a student?

As an MS, SLP candidate that moved from Connecticut to New Jersey, I felt unsure where to begin with networking. Although I knew I would connect with others through my clinical externships, I felt that I wanted to be a part of a bigger community. I followed the guidance of my professor, Dr. Neubauer, who encouraged me to join NJSHA. To my surprise, NJSHA offered a multitude of committees that one could join. AAC happened to be one of these committees, which is my intended career interest.

Dr. Neubauer talked to me about my interests and had gotten me in touch with Donna Spillman-Kennedy, a member of the AAC Committee who specializes in this area within our field. Donna introduced me to the committee with open arms, she was able to get a sense of my background and what I hoped to gain from my NJSHA experience. From there, I was able to attend AAC Committee meetings and meet other amazing professionals that work closely with populations conducting AAC assessments and interventions. I also shadowed AAC evaluations, was given guidance to create a symbol-based communication playground board and took part in community outreach activities.

How has NJSHA prepared you for your professional career? What have you gained as a student member that has helped you take the next steps toward your future?

As a student member joining a committee, I never once felt like I was inferior or didn’t belong despite working with many highly educated professionals. The committee members always opened the floor for me to ask questions or suggest new ideas. They also have given their personal time to meet with me to mentor and guide me through clinical scenarios I may have encountered throughout my graduate career.

I was also able to attend NJSHA’s Student Advocacy Day where I met some of NJSHA’s lobbyists at the State House in Trenton. They informed the student participants about the legislative structure and the process which takes place for bills to be formally introduced.

Joining a committee gives students and professionals alike the ability to work on projects and advocacy initiatives within subsets of the field, which I love.

Who is your “NJSHA Hero” and why?

That one person would have to be Donna Spillman-Kennedy. She is the current president, and has been a NJSHA member for more than 35 years, and is an integral part of the NJSHA community. She gets excited about every initiative and project set forth by the committees. Working with Donna has been an incredible experience, and my greatest moment would have to be presenting at the AAC Build Your Therapy ToolKit program alongside her at the NJSHA 2023 Convention. This was the moment that made me feel like I truly had made it as a future professional. I felt like I was respected and trusted enough to speak to students about AAC with such a seasoned professional. I hope to have the chance to do many more presentations like this in the future.

Her dedication to NJSHA motivated me to always want to do more for our field through our state organization. I want to take a moment to thank Donna for being such a positive influence in my life, professionally and personally. Her belief in me made me feel worthy of being involved in this organization and pushed me to do things outside of my comfort zone. She provided me with a plethora of knowledge and helped me confirm that going into the field of AAC is where I need to be. Donna alone made joining NJSHA 100 percent worthwhile. I highly recommend reaching out to her and introducing yourself, I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Why should other students and professionals join NJSHA?

NJSHA is a community. You aren’t just buying into an organization with nothing to gain in return. From networking to professional development opportunities, being a NJSHA member has it all.

I think any student that has not joined NJSHA is missing out on a valuable experience and professional tool, that they can certainly benefit from. Eventually, those students will become the future of what NJSHA can and will be. To be a mentee, to then transition into becoming a mentor, is the most beneficial aspect one could have from this membership. It truly is the gift that keeps on giving within this field.

As for current professionals, you certainly can make a difference in a student’s graduate experience if you were to join NJSHA. Students are going through one of the most difficult and monumental times in their lives, and the guidance you can provide is invaluable. As students, we tend to lead by example because we are stepping into the unknown. We need more professionals and higher education professors to advocate on behalf of NJSHA. I was fortunate to have Dr. Neubauer explain the benefits of becoming a member to my SLP graduate cohort. We need more professors to do the same.

How do you suggest others can be more involved in NJSHA?

I suggest going to the NJSHA website and checking out everything they have to offer. I recommend reaching out to NJSHA members that have similar interests as you. You should ask what NJSHA means to them, as everybody has a unique story. I guarantee no one will be disappointed to hear the success stories that have developed because of this association. I believe that once you become a member, you will see the magic behind NJSHA and want to become a member for life. Remember membership is what you make of it. Take the time to see what you can gain, as well as contribute.

What is your next challenge?

My next challenge is to continue my collegiate journey and work towards an advanced degree at the University of Pittsburgh. I also anticipate continuing my membership with NJSHA despite attending school in Pennsylvania. NJSHA has now become a part of me, and I hope to keep contributing to our community outreach initiatives within the AAC Committee.

During my doctoral program, I will be conducting interviews regarding AAC-BCI training and clinical services. I will assist with data collection and support the coding of transcribed data using qualitative data analysis tools. I will also contribute to BCI implementation with patients at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hospitals and BCI clinical trials within the outpatient program. In addition, I will be busy developing my targeted research interests. I am most interested in researching concepts related to processes for appropriate feature matching during AAC assessments and accessibility to assistive technology.

A true challenge and request would be to get more professors at all the New Jersey universities to support and recognize the importance of NJSHA. This will increase the likelihood that students get involved at the state level, which is necessary to keep NJSHA continuously evolving for years to come.

Member Since

2020

Introduction

Karen is an audiologist whose dedication and advocacy efforts throughout her career has directly and positively impacted the professions as well as patients. She earned her doctorate from the University of Florida, her graduate degree from Northwestern University, and her undergraduate degree from Montclair State University. Karen joined NJSHA as a new professional immediately after earning her master’s degree. She continues to be a proud member of NJSHA and an active member of the audiology committee

Karen has made remarkable contributions to the audiology profession in both clinical and volunteer capacities. She has, over the course of her career, worked in two different teaching hospitals, private practice as well as served in a consultant capacity. Over the past 12 years, she has worked as the Director of Audiology at a large medical practice. She wears many hats: seeing patients as part of a multi-disciplinary team and managing administrative tasks. Karen is also a dedicated volunteer who has served as an ASHA Ambassador on the Committee of Ambassadors, as a national advocate, since 2018. She also serves as a Clinical Director for Healthy Hearing in the Healthy Athletes program for the Special Olympics of New Jersey .

Karen received an award from the American Speech- Hearing Association (ASHA) in 2022 – the “ASHA Media Champion Award” – for radio and television interviews highlighting the importance of hearing and vestibular diagnostics. Karen’s focus was on the connection of hearing and cortical health, as well as hearing conservation. All her efforts and accomplishments through ASHA are aligned with NJSHA’s mission, vision and actions which also has positively benefited NJSHA in the areas of public awareness of hearing disorders.

Karen and her husband live in South Jersey. She has two grown sons. Her youngest “child” is a Mini Australian Shepherd named Ezra. She enjoys reading, hiking, sewing, cooking, yoga, and she takes time out of her busy schedule to run every weekday morning.

Karen sat down with VOICES to discuss her many contributions to NJSHA:

What excites you most about your contributions to your profession?

I love sharing my passion for hearing health with my patients and the public at large. I enjoy working with audiology students, and hope to inspire teens to consider becoming an audiologist during the high school career day events that I regularly attend.

You are very adept and talented when it comes to promoting the audiology profession in the media. Is there one interview that has left a lasting impression?

Absolutely, yes. I did a recent interview on WHYY, the Philadelphia NPR affiliate station, which was hosting a segment about hearing healthcare.

The very next day after the segment aired, a patient came to my office and was thrilled that she had heard the interview on her radio. After hearing what I said to the reporter, she is now moving forward with hearing testing and working to keep her hearing as healthy as possible. This interview was just another great way in which we can educate people about audiology, and the important role we audiologists play in protecting hearing and supporting cortical health.

Why is your ongoing membership in NJSHA so important?

I joined the association to stay connected to other audiologists and speech-language pathologists in the state. There is value in being a part of a state association in which you can learn so much about

different experiences from industry leaders. The lasting professional connections, the insightful continuing education and networking opportunities with fellow members are key reasons why everyone in our profession needs to join NJSHA and be active.

Why should professionals join this organization?

All audiologists and speech-language pathologists should join NJSHA. ASHA provides information on a national level and NJSHA provides information on a state level, they both look at things differently.

We need this association and its members to help be the voice in Trenton. There is power in numbers and as a group we can make a bigger impact for our patients including helping with relevant legislative issues and learning new information. “The more knowledge we have the better we are at providing services to our patients.”

How do you suggest others can be more active in NJSHA?

Join and be a part of NJSHA. Attend seminars, conferences and the annual convention, ask “How can I get involved?” It is as simple as going to the website and sending an email. Find an interest, something you are passionate about, sit in on a committee meeting and listen to hear what they are doing. You don’t have to be a chairperson or an active leader in the committee; you can just listen and learn.

Who is your “NJSHA Hero” and why?

That would be Linda Tucker-Simpson. She is a former NJSHA president and has served in many different capacities within the association. I am amazed by Linda’s wealth of knowledge about our field and NJSHA. She was my inspiration for joining.

What is your next NJSHA challenge?

I would like to become much more involved in advocacy. It makes a huge difference when we can positively change policy to the direct benefit of our patients. I would also like to recruit many more NJSHA members from southern New Jersey, where I am from. Many people think NJSHA is more for professionals in the central and northern parts of the

state. That’s not so; the association benefits all of us. We just need to spread the word!

Member Since

1984

Introduction

Donna has been a career-long member of NJSHA and is the President-Elect of our association.

As a practicing speech-language pathologist for 37 years, she has provided clinical services to individuals across the age range with developmental disabilities, medical challenges, and complex communication needs. Her experience has expanded beyond direct clinical work to include supervising a large speech pathology department in a special needs school; and serving more than 20 years as an adjunct professor at 3 NJ universities, both lecturing and providing clinical supervision to graduate and undergraduate students. Currently, Donna is a partner in a private practice which she founded in 2015  which specializes in AAC evaluations and services, an area in which she has been working since the 1980s. She also provides specialized services to support children and teens who have Selective Mutism, her other passion.

Although she says she knew she wanted to be a speech-language pathologist when she was 15, her innate desire to help those who cannot speak for themselves began early on. Her mother likes to tell the story of when Donna was in Kindergarten and was sent to the principal’s office for strongly defending her buddy who had special needs against a bully on the playground. To this day, Donna continues to advocate for her clients and patients and persevere, never giving up on helping even the most impaired communicator find their voice. To her, the ability to embrace a challenge, provide means and opportunities for people of all ages to express themselves, and find a way to connect with her and others are the most exciting and rewarding experiences of being a speech-language pathologist.

NJSHA has been an integral part of Donna’s professional life since her undergraduate degree program and continued through her graduate school studies at Rutgers University. When asked about how she got involved during these early days in her career, Donna stated, “Dr. Barbara Glazewski was my professor, mentor and a primary influencer in my career.  She told me that if I was going to be an SLP that I needed to join NJSHA”. Since that time, Donna has continued as an active member of the association and recognized by her colleagues for her dedication and contributions to NJSHA, earning Volunteer of the Year, Honors of the Association, and the Distinguished Professional Service Award.

In her personal life, Donna is married and lives in Springfield with husband and two young adult children. Donna loves to exercise in her free time and listen to Bruce Springsteen.  Besides her family, the beach is her second true love. Donna enjoys walks on the beach; it’s the place where she is truly relaxed.

Why is NJSHA important to you?

“NJSHA has been an integral part of my career as an SLP. NJSHA is a major part of who I am. I have been a member for more than 35 years. I have learned so much from being an active  committee member learning so much from my colleagues and working to make a difference in our professions and those we serve. I can’t say enough about the knowledge, guidance, support, and opportunities I have been afforded throughout my time with the association, a lot of which helped me with my career and my business. I have learned things beyond my imagination and have made many lifelong friends who I connect with both personally and professionally because NJSHA is a group of like-minded people who share a passion for what we do. NJSHA is inclusive, and not an elitist group, that encourages all speech-language pathologists and audiologists to contribute to whatever level they can, being on a short-term project, or choosing to be more active in the association. It provides a voice and means to affect change and impact our clients and the community on a daily basis”.

What NJSHA project or event have you been most excited about?

“That is a hard question because NJSHA is involved in so many exciting projects! I am currently working on with other NJSHA members is The Police Communication Project. This will allow police officers to use picture communication boards to interact with motorists who have communication issues.  I spoke in Trenton to garner support for a bill to provide resources and training to police offices to communicate more easily with people with communication challenges”.

Who is your “NJSHA Hero” and why?

“I have many heroes; there are really too many of list over the past 35+ years. My primary mentor has been my beloved professor, treasured colleague and friend Dr. Barbara Glazewski who told me to join NJSHA. She guided me and supported me to become involved and helped me form a foundation within our association that continues to enable me to grow as a professional today. I am eternally grateful to her. I owe so much to her, and all the NJSHA members who have supported me throughout the years. My most recent heroes are Robynne Kratchman and Kathy Palatucci, who have been instrumental in guiding me as I  prepare to assume the role of NJSHA President in July”.

Do you have a greatest “NJSHA moment”? If so, what was it?

“There have been so many moments.  I think the greatest moment was when I was asked to be the president of NJSHA.  This association has been a big part of my life, and to be the president is truly an honor”.

What vision do you have for our membership as you prepare to move into your position as association President?

“One major focus is increasing membership.  I want to get our vision and mission to the young professionals and student in our great State of New Jersey. Young people bring fresh, new ideas, and strategies which can address the priorities of today and tomorrow, which are essential to keep this association viable.  For many years I taught students at the university level.  Knowledge and awareness are key and I want to teach new speech-language pathologists and audiologists about the importance of NJSHA to secure our legacy, so that we can continue to thrive for the next generation of professionals. I was a member in a committee my senior year as an undergraduate. I continued to be involved in committee work throughout graduate school. I learned first-hand how incredibly valuable NJSHA can be for all students to build a rewarding career”.

Why should professionals join this organization?

“NJSHA is the connection to professional and personal growth development: and the association is the connection to the state for professional advocacy.  NJSHA works to improve and maintain professional standards for audiology and speech-language pathology professionals as well as support those we serve. We have a long history of impacting our professions and making positive change. When we come together, we have the opportunity to make things happen!”

What are you looking forward to as the next NJSHA president?

“I look forward to enhancing what  past presidents Robynne Kratchman and current president Kathy Palatucci have put in place over the past several years. They worked diligently through some trying times and their response has enabled us to have a positive impact on professionals and those we served despite the challenges encountered.  They have done a tremendous job, and I thank them for their passion and dedication as well as the investment they have put forth for this association. They have both taught me so much and without their guidance I’m not sure this transition would be possible.

As President, there are two words that come to my mind: communication and connection.  As an SLP, communication is key.  I will work the next two years connecting our members (current and new), committee chairs, state officials and the public.  I want everyone to know about NJSHA, who we are, what we do and that as an association we are here to support professionals and the public alike.  NJSHA is the connection to the state and professionals, so together we can make a difference in  individuals with communication disorders. As the president of this association, I want people to join because your voice can be powerful in so many ways, even the smallest contribution can make an impact on others and NJSHA.

Dominic Ursino, the late Chief Executive of the NJ Institute for Disabilities, where I worked for 20 years, said, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.  These are words that I want to embody and the culture I want to create for the next two years as president of NJSHA.”

Member Since

2012

Introduction

Michelle is a health care professional whose journey is incredibly rich and diverse. She is a licensed and board-certified speech-language pathologist (SLP) as well as a registered nurse (RN). In addition, Michelle is an officer in the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) Commissioned Corps (CC), one of the eight uniformed services dedicated to public health, for nearly 17 years. Her current role is as a Regional Commander for the Division of Reserve Affairs for CC Headquarters overseeing the USPHS Ready Reserve in Regions 1, 2 and 10.
As a health care provider, Michelle has vast experience in acute care, long-term care and home-health. Michelle is a highly decorated professional having received several Commissioned Corps Honor and Service Awards as well as awards from other federal agencies in which she was detailed. Michelle has earned an Outstanding Service Award, Commendation Awards, The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Honor Awards – Operational Excellence Award, Supervisor of the Year as well as a range of commendation awards for her contribution to the agencies, facilities and patients she has served.

Michelle has been an active member of NJSHA for the past 10 years. She has served on the Multicultural Committee as well as the Convention Program Committee. Michelle has been a pivotal committee member securing presenters for adult and medically based topics from the perspective of government agencies. Her unique and diversified experience has helped to provide NJSHA with renewed insight and expanded perspective regarding military service. She has continued to balance all her professional life, family and friends. Michelle is married and has four dogs. Michelle has a passion for animals, museums, exploring cities across the US, food and wine festivals, arts and craft shows, spending time with her “besties” friends and is a hippie at heart. She is also an avid walker, yoga practitioner and loves to laugh. Michelle is also an elite writer for Yelp, which has truly sharpened her writing skills. Even with her full and vibrant lifestyle Michelle still has time to enjoy the many benefits of volunteering with NJSHA.

What excites you most about your contributions to your profession?
That would have to be the diversity of the field of speech-language pathology and specializing in specific areas of interest. My specialties are dysphagia, aphasia and cognitive-linguistic disorders, especially working with those in underserved and vulnerable communities.

My proudest professional accomplishments are becoming a speech-language pathologist and serving as an officer in the USPHS. I provide awareness and visibility of the little-known uniformed service by engaging other officers to present at the NJSHA Annual Convention.

With such an interesting, diverse background, how did you get involved in NJSHA?
When I moved to New Jersey from New York in 2010, I wanted to get involved with an organization focused on SLPs as I no longer worked full-time as an SLP. Once I became a member, I was able to get involved in several committees.

I’m so glad I joined! There are many opportunities to network with other SLPs, become involved in the legislation process, and be an advocate for policies affecting the profession and education. It is also a wonderful way to get involved. NJSHA is an invaluable resource to gain information on a variety of topics as well as learn about the many opportunities to attend Conventions and webinars. Anyone who is interested in getting involved, I just tell them to go to NJSHA.org, browse and learn more to join a committee. I enjoy being on the Convention Committee because of my professional network. I have the ability to connect SLPs working in various settings with those who are working both clinically in public health and federal government agencies. Many of these professionals are SLPs who have broadened their skills in leadership positions within and outside of the profession.

Who is your “NJSHA Hero” and why?
That would have to be Joanie Warner. I connected with Joanie early on when I joined NJSHA. She was instrumental in getting me to be a part of the Convention Program Committee. I then took that opportunity to engage USPHS officers to serve as presenters at the Convention. For most attendees, it was the first time they had become aware of the USPHS Commissioned Corps gaining knowledge of other SLPs who are officers serving the federal government for various agencies. Joanie was instrumental in welcoming me and ensuring diversity amongst those on the Convention Committee.

What was your greatest “NJSHA moment”?
It was in 2015, when I arranged for the first USPHS officer who is a speech-language pathologist, Captain Mercedes Benitez McCrary, DHSc, MPHc, MS, CCC-SLP to present at the NJSHA Annual Convention. She presented Medicare Post the Affordable Care Act: Health Care is Changing, Are Speech and Language Pathologists Ready? This program not only provided valuable information and insight on the topic, but it also afforded attendees a unique and extraordinary experience that increased awareness of the Commissioned Corps as a career option for SLPs. In 2016, officers Captain Michael Kluk, MA, MBA, CCC-SLP and Commander Cathleen Davies, MS, CCC-SLP, also presented at the Convention which provided additional insight into the many career opportunities for SLPs. I am pleased that Captain Dean Trombley, MA, CCC-SLP, and Commander Tina M. Trombley, BSN, MHA, will be presenting Parent, Client, Clinician, Family and Profession: A Life Cycle of Speech Pathology at the 2023 NJSHA Convention. Connecting members of the USPHS who serve within speech-language pathology and related professions is important to me as NJSHA strives to provide interprofessional education opportunities.

What is the next challenge you would like to undertake?
I have two challenges that I would like to achieve. One would be to continue providing awareness and in hopes of garnering interest in an SLP and/or audiologist, in joining the USPHS as a part-time reservist or full-time active-duty officer.

Second, with my background as an SLP and as a registered nurse, I plan to advance my education within nursing, integrating both backgrounds and experience to support the treatment of the mental health patients. I will continue being a part of NJSHA using my knowledge, skills and abilities to advance policies and new interventions within the practice of speech-language pathology.

My heart is open to all people. I want to advocate for individuals who don’t have the knowledge or voice to do so themselves, and those that are underserved, vulnerable and marginalized. I am committed to fighting for patients and their resources; helping them to get denied services overturned and providing patients the opportunity to receive better access to care holistically and functionally. It’s these areas of need that continue to surprise me and keep pushing me to be an educator, clinician and always an advocate!

Member Since

2009

Introduction

Angela is a speech-language pathologist (SLP)/endoscopist who is also an entrepreneur. She owns a mobile unit that provides imaging for flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). In her role, she serves health care facilities, such as longterm care, rehabilitation, nursing and physician offices, providing direct care to patients. Angela’s business, Dysphagia Imaging of North Jersey, was launched in 2018.

During her career, Angela has worked in various professional settings, such as skilled nursing, subacute rehabilitation, acute care in hospitals, private practice and as an adjunct clinical supervisor at Montclair State University (MSU).

In addition, she has been a proud member of NJSHA since earning her graduate degree from MSU in January 2009. She was awarded the Marni Reisberg Memorial Student Achievement Award in 2009, and is a three-time recipient of ASHA’s ACE Award for Continuing Education (2016, 2017 and 2019).

On the personal side, Angela is married for 37 years and has four adult daughters. When her sister had a stroke, it inspired her to earn a graduate degree in communications sciences and disorders, paving the way to becoming an SLP. Angela also enjoys hiking and traveling with her family, especially to National Parks.

What excites you most about your profession?
I have always loved being an SLP. What is more important or satisfying than helping people communicate with others? I have been fortunate to work with clients/patients from pediatric to geriatric and in a variety of settings. It is so rewarding to collaborate with patients/clients to help guide them as they work toward their goals and see their joy and pride as they make tremendous progress.

I am most excited about starting my own mobile FEES company in 2018. I saw a great need for this service throughout my many years working in hospitals, subacute rehab, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient rehab and private practice. It has been a great learning experience, and it is so rewarding to bring objective swallow studies to patients and facilities that might not otherwise have easy access.

It has also been challenging in many ways as New Jersey’s rules and regulations for performing FEES is very limiting and not in line with ASHA’s practice guidelines. I am proud to have been working on NJSHA’s Dysphagia Subcommittee for the past couple of years with a great group of clinicians who are dedicated to advocating for change, best patient care and making FEES more accessible to all patients in all settings.

We have been diligently working on a white paper. We are optimistic that it will help to facilitate the changes our patients deserve.

What is the value of NJSHA to you?
Joining NJSHA is a no brainer! It’s a great way to meet other clinicians, as we often work in remote settings. NJSHA offers many continuing education opportunities through webinars and the Annual Convention in Long Branch. The organization is the ideal place to find support and resources as we navigate this incredible, ever-changing profession. It is refreshing and exciting to meet other clinicians who share the same passion and love for serving those with speech, language and swallowing disorders. I’m also proud to say NJSHA is the ideal platform in which we can all come together to organize and advocate for change/advancements.

To me, it is important to be involved in your state professional association, as well as ASHA. Our field is certainly not stagnant; it is continually changing and growing. Clinicians must stay involved to keep abreast of new practices, new research and advancements in our field. NJSHA offers abundant means to achieve this. In addition, I think we all can identify weaknesses in the current environments in which we work. NJSHA is a great support network to help us make changes and advocate for those we serve!

How do you suggest that others get more involved in NJSHA?
There is so much you can do! Think about your interests and where they can best be put to use to make a greater impact within the profession. I implore you to go to the NJSHA website (njsha.org) and do a little research. There may already be members, groups or committees that share your passion and would love to have you involved. If not, the website is a great starting point to collaborate with others to forge the way for change and growth.

Who is your NJSHA Hero and why?
I am grateful to the many “NJSHA Heroes” who have gotten me involved. Yet one member stands above all others – Kathleen Palatucci. She has been an incredible influence/mentor to me throughout my career. I first met Kathy when I worked with her at Saint Clare’s Hospital in northern New Jersey. Kathy was the lead SLP; she was an incredible leader for our SLP team. I also had the pleasure of working with Kathy when I was an adjunct supervisor at MSU.

Kathy is an incredible force. She is kind, loving and gentle in her dealings with others. She is a fearless advocate for both SLPs and patients/clients. She is not afraid to stand up and challenge current practices to do what is right and ethical.

Kathy has a wealth of information whether it be in clinical practice, Medicare/insurance coding and billing, educational programs, etc., and she is generous in sharing her expertise and knowledge. Kathy continues to inspire me; we are lucky she is the current president of NJSHA, and I am thankful for her love of and dedication to our profession.

Tell us more about your work on the Dysphagia Subcommittee? Did you have an “Aha” moment?
I think my “NJSHA Moment” had to be when I attended the Health Care Update session a few years ago at the NJSHA Convention. This experience is what led me to participate in the Dysphagia Subcommittee. I realized that if I wanted to see changes in patient access to instrumental studies, I could no longer sit back and complain without taking action. I am eager to move forward in presenting our white paper to the NJSHA Board and state legislators, calling for change.

It’s not surprising, but I am consistently reminded that all people are unique individuals and need to be treated as such. No two cases are exactly alike despite similar diagnoses. What works for one patient may not be effective for the next and vice versa. I love working with dysphagia patients, getting to know them, figuring out what motivates them and working alongside them to help them achieve their unique goals.

I thank NJSHA for helping to make that happen.

Member Since

2008

Introduction

Marla Sperling Reich, MA, CCC-SLP chosen by the New York Times Learning Network

Marla Sperling-Reich, MA, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist (SLP) and currently the co-chair of the Public Relations Committee for NJSHA. She works as an educational SLP for the Freehold Regional High School District with students 14-21 years of age.

During the 2021-22 school year, Marla was chosen by The New York Times Learning Network as one of 40 distinguished educators within the U.S. to participate in The New York Times Learning Network’s Teaching Project for the 2021-22 school year. The 40-member cohort explored new ways to use the Learning Network with an educational objective for the classroom.  Marla was honored to be part of this unique program and was the sole speech-language pathologist selected.

The cohort’s mission was to collaborate with other professionals in the education field to broaden learning opportunities using the New York Times and The Learning Network along with understanding more about behind-the-scenes journalism. Another objective was to develop innovative curriculum ideas along with an exclusive project for students and The New York Times Learning Network community. Below are several articles that offer insights into this project.

The first article below welcomes the cohort to the project:

40 Educators Join The New York Times Teaching Project

Marla participated in an educational video on building vocabulary produced by the New York Times Learning Network, sharing ideas for accessible learning:

Making Times Vocabulary Accessible to a Wide Range of Students

The article 48 Pieces of Advice shares inspiring ideas from members of the cohort during the challenging time of teaching through COVID-19.

48 Pieces of Advice From Educators on How to Survive This Challenging Time

Marla was honored to be the guest speaker for a New York Times webinar on how the Times can be accessible for various types of learners.

On-Demand Webinar: Exploring How The Times Can Be Accessible for Every Learner

The New York Times Learning Network published a piece sharing various lesson ideas from around the world to teach students about the Russia-Ukraine war and utilized Marla’s lessons within the article.

How Educators Around the World Are Teaching the Russia-Ukraine War

There was a New York Times Learning Network contest that Marla’s students participated in. One of those students won honorable mention in this global contest by creating a new word, “inflobia”; see below:

24 New Words Invented by Teenagers

Marla has been a practicing speech-language pathologist for three decades in both private practice and school settings in the Maryland/ DC area, Florida and New Jersey.  She also supervises graduate students who are completing their master’s degree in speech-language pathology. In 2017, Marla was honored with the Governor’s Educator of the Year Award within her district.

Marla gained invaluable and unique experiences participating in the New York Times Learning Network’s Teaching Project. She plans to utilize and share this knowledge for the remainder of her speech-language pathology career.

Marla collaborated with various supervisors and staff to share New York Times opportunities. Freehold High School’s AP English classroom was chosen to participate in the Opinion Writing workshop where students directly partook in this live world-wide event with New York Times staff.
On-Demand Classroom Workshop for Students: Opinion Writing

A few photos from the event: FHS Students Participate in Interactive Workshop with the New York Times

Marla encourages her students to immerse themselves into an array of topics and talking points for a variety of essential language lessons to help achieve the skills needed to build conversation. Being a part of the New York Times Learning Network significantly contributed to Marla’s therapeutic goals and objectives while allowing her to share her unique perspective as an SLP with the New York Times cohort and staff. Participating in the cohort was actually not the first time Marla worked with the New York Times. She was first published in the Learning Network on January 17, 2018, where her creative lesson ideas were spotlighted in the Reader Ideas section. See her published link below: Reader Idea | A Speech-Language Pathologist Makes The Times an Essential Part of Her Classroom

Member Since

2009

Introduction

Nicole Ford a dedicated NJSHA member and recognized leader has been a strong advocate for school related issues since joining NJSHA in 2009. Nicole earned an undergraduate degree from West Virginia University in 1999 with a degree in speech-language pathology and audiology, and a master’s degree from Seton Hall University in 2005. With a tremendous passion for teaching, Nicole also earned certificates from Montclair State University in both elementary education and educational administration.

Nicole has worked diligently to accomplish many goals throughout her career the most recent rising to a supervisory level in a large urban public school district in October 2022. Nicole works as a Supervisor of Related Services within the Office of Special Education. She worked as a SLP with the school district for 11 years, having provided direct services to children who exhibit a range of challenges associated with speech and language deficits, literacy and a range of issues associated with craniofacial disorders, dysphagia and medical fragility.   In addition to her work in the public-school Nicole provides services per diem at a medical center, as well as offers early intervention services to clients. Prior being promoted to her current supervisory position she said her greatest accomplishments have been achieved through NJSHA. She considers the statewide organization to be her “foundation,” helping her grow personally and professionally since she first became an SLP.

Nicole has served as chair of the NJSHA School Affairs Committee from (2020-2022, 2016-2019) and vice chair in 2015. She has worked to advocate for students and school-based speech language pathologists through active engagement with both our membership and the NJ State Department of Education.   She has resided on the Board of Directors since 2015 and was treasurer of the Political Action Committee from 2018-2021. Nicole also serves in an advisory role to Rutgers University. Nicole is excited and honored to be in the SLP profession, providing therapy, teaching a clinical fellow, answering NJSHA member questions, providing needed testimony and advocating for the profession through NJSHA as School Affairs Committee (SAC) Chair and as a Board of Directors member.

Why did you join NJSHA?

“I quickly realized the wealth of knowledge and vast resources NJSHA had to offer due to the work of its dedicated members. When I was first starting out, I realized this was an organization I needed to be a part of if I wanted to stay current in my field. It was also a reliable resource for all the questions I had as a new SLP. Little did I know there was so much more than continuing education that an SLP should know about. NJSHA introduced me to the world of advocacy not only for the clients and families served, but for the profession itself.

I personally feel it is everyone’s professional responsibility to remain current within the field. NJSHA is a great way to network – it’s fun, and has helped me to develop my career. I owe much of my success to the volunteers that make up NJSHA. Many have become life-long friends, as well.

Who is your “NJSHA Hero” and why?

“I have a NJSHA Superhero Bunch!  That includes Sue Goldman, Robin Kanis, Mary Faella and Maria Rodriguez.”

Sue opened the NJSHA door and welcomed me in. For several years I traveled to her home to sit at the School Affairs Committee meetings in awe of the knowledge held by those sitting around her dining room table, Robin Kanis being one of them. I was like a sponge and just took it all in. Robin and Sue are the dynamic duo. Together they are just amazing with the knowledge they share, and their willingness to help teach, coach, and advocate is altruistic. The two of them have become NJSHA moms to me.

Mary Faella was my first SLP mentor out of school. Years later, we joined forces and became SAC chair and co-chair together. Mary was always a big advocate for her students and for the profession even before joining SAC. When I first started working, Mary gave me a Codebook, a highlighter and stickies; I should have known that was the beginning of something bigger.

Maria Rodriguez and I worked together and then reconnected again through NJSHA. She is now my partner in crime as we navigate through our careers in the schools, as chair and co-chair of SAC, and members of the Board of Directors.

My greatest NJSHA moments are the ones shared with all members. It’s just so nice to be able to pick up the phone and ask a question, discuss a topic, and share a resource with someone I can truly call a friend.”

What is the next challenge you would like to undertake, both professionally and with NJSHA? Why?

My next profession challenge is well underway, now that I am supervisor of related services in such a large public-school district. This was a proud accomplishment as many supervisors are not SLPs and often have a difficult time relating to and understanding the role of SLPs in the school setting.

Additionally, there are not a lot of SLPs in supervisory roles within school settings. One of my personal goals is to create a network of school-based supervisors so we can share ideas and resources. Within NJSHA’s Schools Affairs Committee (SAC), Maria Rodriguez and I are working together to bring in new members and build future leaders to keep NJSHA active and strong.

With the current outlook of the public-school setting and many SLPs retiring, it is imperative for SAC to educate and empower NJSHA members and new professionals to become leaders within their schools.

What is something surprising or unexpected you have learned through your work?

The relationships I have built throughout my career have truly been the most unexpected surprise. This includes NJSHA, work colleagues, clients and families. I’ve learned how to support other disciplines such as OT and PT, teaching has helped me to understand how to connect with them as an SLP to support students, NJSHA has taught me about advocacy, leadership, and the importance educating other professionals. Interactions with clients and families always remind me why I got into this field, not to mention many have also encouraged and help me to practice learning Spanish.

Our field is so vast; I knew there would always be more to learn. However, I didn’t quite understand how important it was to advocate and educate others to keep them abreast of all the changes that are occurring.   One of the ways we keep the public updated is via social media. A post is written and posted every Saturday during the school year. The post is called “Saturdays with SAC.”

The unexpected part was uncovering all NJSHA has to offer. If there was one piece of advice I would offer to speech-language pathologists and audiologist out there, it would be to get involved. There are so many ways to open this door. Volunteer for a project, help out at a booth during convention, join a committee meeting, peruse the website and read some of the VOICE’S articles, submit an idea, talk to an active member.  We are all very approachable! If nothing else you will gain a friend, isn’t that alone worth it?

Member Since

Introduction

Lifetime Achievement Award
Sue Goldman

Honors of the Association
Kristie Soriano

Distinguished Clinical Achievement Award
Karen Golding-Kushner

Distinguished Professional Service Award
Sharon Ratiner

New Professional Award
Justine Luminoso

Dr. George Gens Volunteer of the Year Award
Marykate Vaughn

Program of the Year
Pines Lake Elementary School

Program of the Year
Speech and Hearing Associates’ Auditory Training Program: A Time to Listen and Connect