PSHA 2024 Virtual Fall Event

Nicole Billak, EdD, CCC-SLP/L, LBS, ASDCS, CTP; Dana Bitetti, PhD CCC-SLP; Erin Buckwalter, MBA, MS, CCC-SLP; Louise C. Keegan, PhD, CCC-SLP, BC-ANCDS

Level of Learning – Introductory

Abstract

This moderated, interactive panel session will discuss the various pathways to pursuing leadership opportunities in the field of speech-language pathology across multiple settings, including in higher education, clinical practice, and the state association. The panelists represent a range of pathways and degrees and will highlight their experiences, the purpose of different doctoral degrees (e.g., Ph.D., SLPD, Ed.D.), and additional master’s degrees (e.g., MBA).  Guidance will be provided for pursuing educational and leadership opportunities that align with your personal and professional goals.  Participants will have opportunities to ask questions and receive additional resources to take the next steps. 

Learner Outcomes

1. Discuss the purpose(s) of obtaining different types of additional degrees and career pathways associated with each
2. Identify opportunities and challenges in pursuing leadership roles within clinical practice and higher education 
3. Identify resources to take the next steps for personal and professional growth

Time Ordered Agenda 

5 minutes – Introductions of panelists and topic, disclosures
5 minutes – Review potential career investment pathways for SLP’s
25 minutes – Each panelist will present their pathway while reviewing successes and challenges 
5 minutes – Additional resources provided
20 minutes – Questions from the audience

Presenter Biographies

Dana Bitetti, Ph.D. CCC-SLP is the past-president of PSHA. She is an Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director of Communication Sciences and Disorders at La Salle University. Her research interests include the language and literacy development of bilingual children with a focus on narrative development. She teaches coursework in child language development and disorders, diagnostics, and linguistics and supervises in the university clinic. She has worked previously as a private school SLP using a variety of service delivery models. 

Erin Buckwalter is the current president of PSHA. Before this, she was the president-elect and the Vice President of Governmental Relations for PSHA. She is the manager of the Inpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation team at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health. For over twenty years, she has worked as a Speech-Language Pathologist in various healthcare settings, primarily outpatient and acute care. In addition to her managerial role, she continues as a treating speech-language pathologist and supervisor for an incredible inpatient speech-language pathology team.

Nicole Billak, EdD, CCC-SLP, LBS, ASDCS, CTP has worked as a school-based SLP for 20 years and is a part-time lecturer for Thiel College.  She teaches Language Disorders, Speech Sounds Disorders, Fluency Disorders, Normal Language Development, and Sign Language.  Her interests include behavior disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and trauma informed care.   She is the current PSHA president-elect and has previously served as treasurer and as the schools committee chair.  

Louise C. Keegan, PhD, CCC-SLP, BC-ANCDS, ASHA Fellow, serves as the Associate Dean of Rehabilitation Sciences at Moravian University, and is an Associate Professor of Speech-Language Pathology. Her research examines 1) optimal interventions for individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury and 2) the scholarship of teaching and learning. She has numerous peer-reviewed publications and has presented her work at many national and international conferences. 

Number of ASHA CEUs – 0.1

Amy Francek, MA, CCC-SLP/L; Katelyn Dwyer, SLPD/L

Level of Learning – Introductory

Abstract

This virtual presentation will examine the field of speech-language pathology as it continues to grow. Data related to numbers of new SLP graduate programs and graduates entering the field will be shared. The presentation will describe the need for experienced SLPs to understand their role in fostering a sense of belonging among colleagues. Seeking to make our workplaces more inclusive, this presentation is also an opportunity to discuss the generational and demographic differences among early-, mid– and late-career SLPs, to better inform their coaching and mentoring activities.

Learner Outcomes

1. Discuss the current trends in the field of speech-language pathology relevant to pre-service training, hiring, retention, and job satisfaction.
2. Identify opportunities and challenges in creating a sense of belonging among early-career SLPs.
3. Identify resources to improve mentorship, coaching, and collaboration among field SLPs to support retention. 

Time Ordered Agenda 

5 minutes- Introductions of presenters and topic, disclosures
15 minutes -Review current trends in the growing field of speech-language pathology
15 minutes – Share information about concepts of belonging and inclusion in the workplace, and the relationship to peer mentoring and coaching
15 minutes – Discuss resources to build capacity among SLPs to bridge generational and skill gaps during coaching conversations
10 minutes – Questions from the audience

Presenter Biographies

Amy Francek is currently the Supervisor of Related Services for a team of 70 school-based Speech-Language Pathologists and Speech-Language Pathology Assistants at the Bucks County Intermediate Unit. Amy is currently the Vice President of Membership and Ethical Practices for PSHA. She presented a session at the 2023 PSHA Convention entitled, “Overcoming Obstacles to the Increased Use of Speech-Language Pathology Assistants”. 

Amy is currently a doctoral candidate in the K-12 Educational Leadership program at Immaculata University where she is researching the role of principals in supporting school-based SLPs.

Katelyn Dwyer is currently a Program and Training Specialist with focus areas of Assistive Technology and Inclusive Practices at the Bucks County Intermediate Unit. She has 16 years experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist. Katelyn holds the position of Vice President of Continuing Education and Professional Practices for PSHA. She recently completed her Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology at Northwestern University with her culminating project focusing on the use of a continuous improvement process to increase the use of comprehensive assessments through a converging evidence framework.

Number of ASHA CEUs – 0.1

Angie Armbrust; Pamela Smith, PhD, CCC-SLP; Joanne Mizii Wisely, MA, CCC-SLP, ACE, FNAP

Level of Learning – Introductory

Abstract

This virtual course introduces the participants to the concept of advocacy in their role as speech-language pathologist or audiologist. The course discusses the ways in which SLPs and audiologists can reflect on their personal advocacy skills and utilize those skills in their workplaces, communities and state. The speakers explained the importance of advocacy efforts related to improving working conditions for their professions and access to medical and educational services.

Learner Outcomes

1. Discuss foundational advocacy skills
2. Identify opportunities and challenges in using advocacy skills in clinical, workplace, and community settings
3. Identify resources to engage in advocacy at the state level

Time Ordered Agenda 

5 minutes- Introductions of panelists and topic, disclosures
15 minutes -Review the ways in which SLPs and Audiologists can identify and use their personal advocacy skills
15 minutes – Review the ways advocacy skills can be used in clinical, workplace, and community settings
15 minutes –  Discuss the strategies for using advocacy skills to support access to quality speech-language and audiology services across the state. Discuss advocacy as a tool for improving working conditions in the fields.
5 minutes – Questions from the audience

Presenter Biographies

Angie Armbrust is a government relations professional based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. She is a Government Affairs Specialist at McNeesGR, with 20 years of experience. Her responsibilities involve engaging with legislative and administrative officials on matters such as health care policy, economic development, tax policies, transportation issues, and procurement., Angie possesses specialized knowledge in professional licensure issues and broader health care policy. Angie has collaborated with several nonprofit organizations, including PSHA, to provide specialized services. Angie earned her B.A. in History and Political Science from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, as well as her M.P.A. in Urban and Regional Affairs from the University of Pittsburgh. 

Dr. Pamela Smith is a retired professor in speech-language pathology from the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. She received her Ph.D. in Communication Sciences from Temple University.  She worked for over 35 years in health care related clinical services and higher education.  She developed a two-course sequence in dysphagia and for many years coordinated externships for graduate SLP students. She is a prior PSHA president, an ASHA Fellow, and is currently an adjunct professor at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences and at Ohio University.  She remains an active member of the PSHA Government Relations Committee and is a member of several ASHA SIGs.  

Joanne Mizii Wisely has served as a speech-language pathologist in all post-acute settings. Awarded the Distinguished Fellowship in Public Policy by the National Academies of Practice, she currently serves that organization as Vice President of Public Policy. Joanne serves as a Clinical Medical Expert with the CMS PACIO Committee and the PACIO Personal Function and Engagement Work Group to develop post-acute electronic health record guidance. Joanne is a Life Member of the American Speech-Language Hearing Association and the Pennsylvania Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She also serves as the Pennsylvania State Advocate for Medicare Policy, serves on the ASHA Member Advisory Group for Value

Based Care, and is a member of the Board of Directors for Main Line Senior Services Wayne Senior Center.

Number of ASHA CEUs – 0.1

Level of learning:  Introductory

Abstract:

This presentation will provide learners with an update on PSHA’s recent education, advocacy, and inclusion efforts across various employment settings, including early intervention, schools, healthcare, private practice, and universities. It will provide opportunities to ask questions and present concerns. Participants will identify opportunities to get involved in the state association and its committees. The presentation will culminate in discussing service provision needs and concerns in Pennsylvania for audiologists and speech-language pathologists.

Learning Outcomes: At the end of this presentation, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the education, advocacy, and inclusion efforts the state association engages in
2. Identify opportunities to get involved in the state association and its committees
3. Discuss service provision needs and concerns in the state of Pennsylvania

Time-ordered agenda

5 minutes – Introductions of speakers and board members of PSHA and their roles
35 minutes – Review of recent advocacy efforts of PSHA
5 minutes – Review of current committee work
10 minutes – Wrap up and discuss state-based needs and member ideas/concerns
5 minutes – Q&A

Speakers:

Erin Buckwalter, MBA, MS, CCC-SLP, has worked as a Speech-Language Pathologist in various healthcare settings, primarily outpatient and acute care, for over 20 years. She is a treating speech pathologist and manager of an incredible inpatient physical medicine and rehabilitation team. Erin is the current President of PSHA. Before this, she was the Vice President of Governmental Relations for PSHA.

Nicole Billak, EdD. CCC-SLP, LBS, ASDCS,CTP has worked as a school-based SLP for 20 years and is a part-time lecturer for Thiel College.  She teaches Language Disorders, Speech Sounds Disorders, Fluency Disorders, Normal Language Development, and Sign Language.  Her interests include behavior disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and trauma informed care.   She is the current PSHA president-elect and has previously served as treasurer and as the schools committee chair. 

Dana Bitetti, Ph.D. CCC-SLP is the past-president of PSHA. She is an Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director of Communication Sciences and Disorders at La Salle University. Her research interests include the language and literacy development of bilingual children with a focus on narrative.. She teaches coursework in child language development and disorders, diagnostics, and linguistics and supervises in the university clinic. She has worked previously as a private school SLP using a variety of service delivery models.