Dear ISHA Members,
As summer settles across Illinois, it offers many of us an opportunity to pause, recharge, and reflect. The work of ISHA continues throughout the year because of the dedication of our volunteers, committees, Executive Board, and members who generously share their time, expertise, and passion to strengthen our professions.
In May, I had the privilege of representing ISHA alongside our President-Elect, Heidi Verticchio, at the Council of State Association Presidents (CSAP) meeting at ASHA Headquarters in Rockville, Maryland. Bringing together leaders from state associations across the country, CSAP provides a valuable opportunity to collaborate, exchange ideas, and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing audiology and speech-language pathology. These conversations reaffirmed that, while each state has unique needs and priorities, we share a common commitment: advancing our professions and ensuring access to high-quality services for the individuals and communities we serve.
Here in Illinois, ISHA has remained actively engaged throughout the summer. At our June Executive Board meeting, we began laying the foundation for ISHA’s next Strategic Plan, identifying priorities that will help guide our association into the future. Planning is also well underway for the 2027 ISHA Convention, as we build on this year’s tremendous success and create meaningful opportunities for learning, collaboration, and connection.
Our advocacy efforts have continued to move forward as well. ISHA remains actively engaged in legislative initiatives that support our professions, and our Practice Act Revision Task Force continues its important work to ensure Illinois’ Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Practice Act reflects the evolving needs of our professions. We have also strengthened our partnerships through collaboration with organizations such as the Illinois Academy of Audiology (ILAA), recognizing that a unified voice enhances our collective impact.
As I reflect on this past year, I am reminded that none of this work happens alone. ISHA is powered by volunteers—professionals who choose to lead, serve, mentor, advocate, and invest in our association’s future. Whether serving on a committee, mentoring students, participating in advocacy efforts, or supporting colleagues, your contributions make ISHA stronger.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Valerie Boyer for her mentorship and leadership throughout my transition into the presidency. I am equally grateful to our President-Elect, Heidi Verticchio, whose partnership, thoughtful leadership, and dedication have strengthened our Executive Board and positioned ISHA for continued success.
Serving as your President has been an incredible honor. As my term comes to a close at the end of August, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve ISHA. Over this past year, I have witnessed firsthand the passion, expertise, and generosity that define our membership. Together, we have advanced advocacy efforts, strengthened professional development opportunities, expanded collaboration, and continued to build an association that empowers current and future professionals.
As we look ahead, I remain confident in ISHA’s future. Our greatest strength has always been our members and our shared commitment to advancing our professions and improving the lives of those we serve. I look forward to continuing to support ISHA and our professions in new ways as we move forward together.
Thank you for the privilege of serving alongside each of you. I wish you a restful remainder of the summer, and I look forward to all that ISHA will continue to accomplish in the years ahead.
Together we are stronger, and together we will continue to advance our professions for the benefit of those we serve.
In solidarity,
Danielle R. Osmelak
President, Illinois Speech-Language-Hearing Association