"One of Siemens' core values is to support and mentor those who will lead the hearing health industry for the next 20 years," stated Angela Flores, director of education and training for Siemens. "We want to see audiology continue to grow as an independent and strong profession as it benefits everyone to see that happen."
Tom Powers, PhD (left), Siemens VP of audiology and compliance, presents AAA Foundation board chair, Dick Danielson, PhD, with a $25,000 check at AudiologyNOW! Trivia Bowl;the grant will support the 2012 Jerger Future Leaders of Audiology Conference.
To date, 28 audiologists have attended the two Future Leaders of Audiology Conferences that were held in 2008 and 2010. These audiologists come from a variety of practice settings, geographic regions, and demographics that reflect the diversity of the profession. JFLAC "graduates" return to their jobs, families, and communities committed to giving back as audiology philanthropists, advocates, volunteers, educators, and Academy leaders. Following the leadership training, past "FLACers'" contributions to the profession have included service on boards of both the Academy and Foundation;leadership positions at state audiology organizations, and on the Academy's AudiologyNOW!, research, and public relations committees;advisory roles with the SAA;presentations at conferences around the United States;and media appearances and articles that increase awareness of hearing health care beyond the audiology community.
"The AAA Foundation is so pleased that Siemens recognizes the value of nurturing our future leaders," said Dick Danielson, PhD, chair of the Foundation board, as he was given the check by Tom Powers, PhD, Siemens VP of audiology and compliance. "On behalf of the Foundation board, and indeed the entire profession, I thank the Siemens team for their vision and generosity. Their leadership-level support will now allow us to mentor another energetic JFLAC class in 2012...and ensure a vibrant future for the profession of audiology and (more importantly) for those with hearing impairment."
Application information for 2012 JFLAC will be available at www.audiologyfoundation.org in late May.
About the American Academy of Audiology Foundation (AAAF)
The American Academy of Audiology Foundation's mission is to promote philanthropy in support of research, education, and public awareness in audiology and hearing science. The Foundation works closely with the American Academy of Audiology to fund research grants;to sponsor educational opportunities for students, audiologists and other hearing professionals;and to increase public understanding of the causes, treatments, and prevention of hearing loss. The AAAF is exempt under 501(c)(3) of the IRS code, and all gifts are tax deductible as allowed by law. For more information, visit the AAAF website at www.audiologyfoundation.org.
