ISHA 2026 Convention Update

I started working as part of the Division for Educational Development (DED) committee many years ago as a track chair. The experience was one of those rare volunteer opportunities where I felt I really contributed to the profession and influenced those around me. Over time, this led to being more involved with the annual ISHA convention, serving as a convention co-chair and eventually leading to the 5-year term as convention coordinator. As my term wraps up, I still think that being part of the DED committee is one of the most meaningful volunteer positions I have taken part in. If you are wondering how each year gets organized, planned, and done and want to continue to move ISHA professional development forward, the DED committee is for you!

A lot has changed in the last 5 years, and ISHA has had to pivot many times to meet the evolving needs of our professions. We’ve changed formats, spaces, and hot topics. Every detail of convention has been considered, debated, and brainstormed. It’s amazing work that takes a dedicated team. The work for the next convention begins the day after convention ends (or maybe a couple of weeks later, since we all need a breather after convention weekend). This is what makes ISHA’s convention one of the best in the nation!

We are in the midst of convention 2026 planning with a great team as always. The new convention planning team includes Ciera Lorio as Convention Coordinator, and Elia Olivares and Suzanne Williams as Convention Co-Chairs. Trina Becker remains the CE Coordinator. Now that the submission portal is closed, we want to thank this year’s track chairs for their work in reviewing and preparing sessions to ensure high quality professional development.

Track Chairs for 2026 ISHA Convention:

• Acquired Neurogenic Disorders: Rud Watson
• Child Language and Phonology: Laurel Teller
• Dysphagia: Carolyn Lisowski
• Fluency: Kristin Chmela
• Multicultural Issues/Bilingual Topics: Juhi Kidwai
• Professional Affairs: Lynne Cameron
• Technological Applications: Amy Yacucci
• Voice and Motor Disorders: Angela M. Riccelli
• Educational Audiology / Aural Rehab: Shraddha Shende
• SIRCA: Meredith Saletta Fitzgibbons
• Student Day Facilitator: Lea Rose Moravec Markham

We can’t wait for you to join us for the Thursday-Friday format, February 19-20, 2026, in Tinley Park! We are excited to have a keynote speaker providing information about artificial intelligence (AI) in the profession in two different sessions. We have so much great work being done in our state and sessions to prove it. Stay tuned for more information!