As I reflect on my past four years leading the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (TSHA), I am filled with a sense of pride, gratitude, and deep appreciation for the organization’s volunteers and members. Leading this dynamic, diverse, and passionate group of professionals was both an honor and a responsibility I did not take lightly. We worked through many challenges and celebrated many successes. I am grateful for everything we learned with each experience.

There’s so much to be proud of this year at the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (TSHA)! Here are the top 10 accomplishments of our TSHA community this year.

The Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation (TSHF) is already working hard to plan our 2025 annual event! As part of our preparation, we want to hear from speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and audiologists across Texas. Your insights and suggestions will help us to plan a successful event. 

Add a Masterclass to your TSHA 2025 Convention registration. 

Transition services are implemented to assist students in planning for post-secondary education, develop skills related to acquiring and maintaining employment, and enhance independent living functionality. Transition services are mandated through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act 300.43 (Individuals with Disability Act, 2017). Within Texas, transition services are directed to be implemented once the student turns 14 years of age (“Secondary Transition Guidance,” 2019).

Can a Clinical Fellow (CF) or speech-language pathologist (SLP) secure a job in the medical field without experience? The short answer is yes, it's possible. However, landing a medical SLP position can be challenging. Due to liability concerns and limited training resources, hiring a clinician with minimal medical SLP qualifications can make it less likely for your resume to reach the hiring manager's desk.

It can be difficult for students to decide where they want to focus within the broad scope of practice of speech-language pathology. This article gives some advice on how to get started and reassurances that you do not need to have it all figured out yet.

Cafe TSHA is an initiative of the TSHA Publications Board. Levity Lounge is a walk on the lighter side. Tips for Tx offers clever hacks to up your therapy game. Tech Bytes covers new and noteworthy technology finds. Student Swap provides student-focused ideas and inspiration. Wellness Corner emphasizes self-care for service providers. We encourage you to submit your ideas to publications@txsha.org for consideration for publication in future issues.