Dear ISHA Members,
One theme continues to emerge across our work: the power of collaboration. It is central to our mission and continues to move ISHA forward by strengthening our community, advancing our professions, and expanding our collective impact.
Our mission is to empower aspiring and practicing audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and assistants through advocacy, education, collaboration, mentoring, and networking. This mission comes to life through the work we do together and the connections we build across our association.
Our 66th Annual ISHA Convention marked a significant milestone for our association. This year, we successfully transitioned to a new location in Tinley Park, our first new venue in over 20 years. With nearly 1,000 attendees, the convention was a vibrant and energizing gathering of professionals, students, and colleagues committed to learning, connecting, and growing together.
Beyond the educational sessions, what stood out most was the energy in the room. Meaningful conversations, the exchange of ideas, and a shared commitment to our professions were evident throughout the event. Our Executive Board and committee meetings during the convention were invigorating, generating innovative ideas, a renewed sense of purpose, and a clear vision for ISHA’s future. These moments are where innovation begins and where the strength of our association is most evident.
This success would not have been possible without the dedication of our Annual Convention Committees. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all committee members, with special thanks to Jennine Harvey-Northrop, VP for the Division of Educational Development, and Convention Coordinator Chair Ciera Lorio, for their leadership, vision, and tireless efforts in making this event a success.
I am also excited to highlight another important milestone. Earlier this month, we launched our brand-new ISHA website. This initiative reflects our commitment to enhancing communication, increasing accessibility to resources, and strengthening engagement with our membership. Our goal is to ensure the website reflects the true face of ISHA, our members, while creating more opportunities for connection, professional growth, and engagement.
To support this work, ISHA successfully secured funding through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s 2025 State Association Grant. This funding supports the development and launch of our redesigned website, including improvements in usability, accessibility, and analytics, as well as the creation of member community pages to foster communication, networking, and engagement.
Each of these initiatives reflects a shared goal: to better connect our members, strengthen our community, and advance our mission.
As we move forward, I am reminded that ISHA’s strength lies in each of you—your willingness to engage and contribute your time and expertise. Whether through attending convention, serving on a committee, mentoring students, or advocating for our professions, your involvement makes a difference.
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