By: Robyn Martin, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF, TSHA Past President

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.

From the beginning of my involvement with TSHA, I knew speech-language pathologists, speech-language pathology assistants, and audiologists across Texas were doing important work. We are not just clinicians; we are advocates for communication, for inclusion, and for the dignity of individuals with speech, language, and hearing disorders. The role of TSHA president gave me a front-row seat to witness the incredible work being done every day and, more importantly, allowed me to help amplify that work on a state level.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my presidency was being part of influencing policies, programs, and initiatives that would benefit not just our members but the people we serve. I believe effective leadership involves fostering strong relationships with those you are serving and working with. I enjoyed hearing from and working with professionals all over the state. It was very evident that when we come together, we can achieve great things! There is a spirit of camaraderie among the members of TSHA, and it was through these relationships that we were able to create opportunities for professional growth, promote diversity within our fields, advocate for those who need our services most, and work to raise awareness of the value that speech-language pathologists, speech-language pathology assistants, and audiologists bring to healthcare teams, schools, and families.

As I step away from my role as past president, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve the members of TSHA and the individuals they work so hard to support. It’s been a privilege to contribute to the Association’s mission and to help shape its direction during such a pivotal time.

Looking ahead, I am optimistic about the future of the professions. I believe the work of speech-language pathologists, speech-language pathology assistants, and audiologists will only continue to grow in importance as we face new challenges in healthcare, education, and communication technologies. I have full confidence that the Association will continue to thrive, innovate, and make a profound impact on the lives of professionals in the fields and the people we serve.

My time as president-elect, president, and past president of TSHA has been a journey of growth, reflection, and service. I will forever be grateful for the chance to work with so many remarkable people who share a commitment to helping others communicate. My prayer is that TSHA will continue to shine with excellence and advocacy for years to come!

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