Several outstanding audiologists were recognized for their significant contributions to the profession of audiology, during the 2015 ADA Convention.
ADA presented Jiovanne Hughart, Au.D., with the Leo Doerfler Award to commemorate the outstanding clinical services that she has provided in her community throughout her career.
"Dr. Hughart is a most deserving recipient who epitomizes Dr. Doerfler’s spirit. Since 1984 her private audiology practices have featured differential diagnosis and treatment of hearing, balance and tinnitus disorders and included vestibular therapy as well as hearing aid fitting and dispensing. She is a consummate service provider, a passionate educator, an ardent student and a selfless volunteer.”
ADA presented Carolyn Smaka, Au.D., the Joel Wernick Award, which recognizes an outstanding educational contribution within the profession of audiology or the field of hearing science.
"Dr. Smaka brings unrivaled passion and enthusiasm to her role as Editor-in-Chief of Audiology Online, where she has served for the past seven years. Providing exemplary educational opportunities for audiologists has become her personal mission and she continually seeks to develop topics and educational opportunities that will benefit the profession of audiology as a whole. Through her efforts and dedication, through her innovation and collaboration, she has shaped continuing education in audiology.”
ADA presented Eric Hagberg, Au.D. with the David P. Goldstein Outstanding Audiologist Award, which recognizes an individual for promoting audiology’s transformation to a doctoral degree with the Au.D. as its distinctive designator.
"As a member of the board of directors of the Audiology Foundation of America, Dr. Hagberg worked tirelessly to help audiology transition to a doctoring profession. He received his Doctor of Audiology degree from A.T. Still University in 2000 and has consistently helped students recognize the importance of achieving the Au.D. movement through student mentoring and speaking routinely at white coat ceremonies over the years. He is one of the founders of the 18x18 movement, which if achieved will complete audiology’s transformation to a doctoring profession as recognized by Medicare, and he has worked non-stop since 18x18s inception to ensure that the Audiology Patient Choice Act becomes law.”
ADA presented Alicia Spoor, Au.D. with the inaugural Craig W. Johnson Audiology Advocate Award, which was established to honor the memory and accomplishments of Craig W. Johnson and to recognize an individual who has made significant contributions to the profession of audiology through federal and/or state advocacy.
“Dr. Spoor has carried forward Dr. Johnson’s great legacy and currently volunteers her time to advocate on regulatory and legislative issues as the Legislative Chair for the Maryland Academy of Audiology. She is the former advocacy committee chair for the Academy of Doctors of Audiology and currently serves as the Chair of the Audiology Quality Consortium, which comprises representatives from 10 national audiology organizations that are purposed to monitor PQRS and respond to rule and measure changes, collaborate on the development of audiology quality measures, and educate audiologists regarding audiology quality measures and PQRS reporting requirements.”
ADA presented Drs. Jason Aird, Amyn Amlani, Barry Freeman and Brian Taylor with the Exemplary Service Award to recognize above and beyond volunteer service to advance ADA’s mission.
“This working group has worked behind the scenes to conduct environmental scans, gather research and measure trends within audiology as well as the entire hearing industry for the purpose of delivering resources that will help advance the interests of ADA members.
For the past two years, these individuals have sacrificed their time and talents towards advancing ADA’s mission to advance best business and clinical practices, by exploring opportunities for innovation. Because of the contributions of this working group, ADA has been better positioned to monitor the disruptive trends impacting audiology today and better poised to help audiologists take full advantage of them.”
