Los Angeles and St. Louis -- February 16, 2006 -- Energizer® Battery, Inc., a provider of batteries for hearing aids and devices as well as consumer electronics, today announced the signing of an exclusive multi-year agreement with the House Ear Institute (HEI) to name its EnergizerR Audiology Traineeship program and provide a full scholarship to one individual each year who will train in the Institute's Children's Auditory Research and Evaluation (CARE) Center. The Energizer® Audiology Traineeship term runs from July 1 through June 30, and because it is one of the few programs that provides such a wide range of services, from newborn screening to cochlear implants, is highly competitive. Entrants to the program must have a master's degree or clinical doctorate in audiology, and are chosen based on merit and a desire to pursue a career in pediatric audiology. This sponsorship from Energizer helps fulfill the Institute's mission to advance education in the field of hearing health and supports its effort to partner with corporations that are equally committed to educating the next generation of hearing health professionals.
"The Institute's exceptional reputation in the hearing health industry and the traineeship program's comprehensive approach to pediatric audiology create a high demand for graduates of our CARE Center," said Margaret Winter, MA, CCC-A, Clinical Services Coordinator, CARE Center. "After completing their training year here at the House Ear Institute, our graduates possess a unique skill set for working with children's hearing that is not likely to be exceeded by any audiology program in the world."
"We are pleased to be able to support the development of individuals focusing on pediatric audiology. Audiology is one of the fastest growing professions and Energizer is committed to being part of the future of hearing health. In addition, the Energizer Bunny® has become a cultural icon of longevity and perseverance, making it a great fit with the House Ear Institute and the spirit of the children who are patients of its CARE Center." says Anne Bannister, Brand Group Director of Energizer Battery, Inc.
About Energizer® Battery, Inc.
Energizer® Holdings Inc. is one of the world's largest manufacturers of primary batteries and flashlights and a global leader in the dynamic business of providing portable power. Energizer provides the optimal power solution to hearing aid wearers by offering a full line of hearing aid battery products, including EnergizerR EZ Change®. Energizer EZ Change is the world's only hearing aid battery dispenser which allows hearing aid users to insert their batteries precisely without having to handle the tiny batteries or tabs. For more information on Energizer, visit www.energizer.com/products/haprofessionals/
About the House Ear Institute (HEI)
The House Ear Institute (HEI) is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advancing hearing science through research and education to improve quality of life. Established in 1946 by Howard P. House, M.D., as the Los Angeles Foundation of Otology, and later renamed for its founder, the House Ear Institute has been engaged in the scientific exploration of the auditory system from the ear canal to the cortex of the brain for nearly 60 years. HEI scientists continue to explore the developing ear and ear diseases at the cell and molecular level, as well as the complex ear-brain interaction. They are also working to improve hearing aids and auditory implants, diagnostics, clinical treatments and intervention methods. For information on the House Ear Institute, please call (213) 483-4431 or visit the Web site at www.hei.org .
