NAFDA Hears Ph.D.'s Voice... and Listens

The National Association of Future Doctors of Audiology (NAFDA) is a student organization whose primary objectives are to increase the public awareness of the Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree and increase educational opportunities for its members. As such, membership has been dominated by students in pursuit of the clinical Au.D. Degree. Audiology, while clinically based in its applications, has been driven and expanded by high quality, scientific research. Much of this scientific literature arose from the efforts of Ph.D. researchers in hearing science. Within Audiology, the titles "Ph.D." and "Au.D." have implications for those carrying their respective titles by defining their place within the continuum of the profession.

NAFDA, in the past, has remained "sound" in promoting and supporting the Au.D. as the sole entry level professional clinical degree and has only accepted Au.D. students as members. However, based on the templates of other student organizations like the American Medical Student Association (AMSA), NAFDA has recently opted to allow research/academic Ph.D.s to join as associate members. The position of associate member now gives any research Ph.D. student the opportunity to reap full member benefits, including a position on the national board. This was done to show our utmost support and respect for research and teaching and provide opportunities for Ph.D. students to reap the same benefits as other NAFDA members by contributing to the student voice through NAFDA. We are also pleased to have Ph.D. members present and discuss their research at conventions and through NAFDA publications if they are interested. In fact, NAFDA is currently developing a Counsel on Scientific Affairs to support this effort.

Beginning this fall, a Ph.D. candidate will sit on the NAFDA board and participate in the National NAFDA decision making processes. This person will act as a representative for all Ph.D. candidates across the country. The board is currently accepting and will review applications for this position. We strongly encourage those interested to contact the NAFDA president, Ross Cushing at rcushing@nafda.org.

This is a decisive break from past policy and will undoubtedly move NAFDA in a new and positive direction. The future Au.D. recognizes the importance of the future Ph.D. and is ready and excited to support their professional development.

The National Association of Future Doctors of Audiology is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization which recognizes and encourages academic excellence and growth of Audiology as a doctoral level profession.