By: Adanna Burrell, MS, CCC-SLP, Vice President for Member Engagement

National Speech-Language-Hearing Month is always a special time to celebrate our professions, recognize the incredible work happening across Texas, and connect with the members who make the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (TSHA) such a strong and vibrant organization.

Throughout the month, we highlighted Speech and Hearing Heroes from across the state. From students and assistants to speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and audiologists, members shared stories of impact, leadership, mentorship, and service. Reading these testimonials was a powerful reminder that the work we do extends far beyond evaluations, treatment sessions, and classrooms. Every day, our members are changing lives, supporting families, advocating for access, and strengthening communities.

One of the highlights of the month was continuing to expand our TSHA Zone Meet-Ups. As Vice President for Member Engagement, one of my goals has been to create opportunities for members to connect outside of Convention and build relationships closer to home.

This spring, we gathered with members in Dallas, Waco, Houston, and San Angelo. These meet-ups brought together professionals from a variety of settings and career stages to network, share ideas, discuss challenges, and celebrate the work happening in their communities. Whether someone was attending their first TSHA event or reconnecting with longtime colleagues, the sense of community was evident in every conversation.

The success of these events reinforces something we already know: Our members want opportunities to engage, collaborate, and build meaningful connections throughout the year. We are committed to meeting members where they are and creating spaces for those connections to happen.

The exciting news is that we are just getting started. We are already planning additional Zone Meet-Ups for August and September as we continue expanding opportunities for engagement across Texas. Stay tuned for upcoming locations and dates.

Of course, while we love bringing members together in their local communities, the TSHA Convention remains one of the most exciting times of the year. While I cannot share all the details yet, I can promise the Member Engagement team has something amazing planned that you will not want to miss.

Thank you to everyone who participated in National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, shared a Speech and Hearing Hero story, attended a Zone Meet-Up, or engaged with TSHA this spring and summer. Your involvement strengthens our professions, our organization, and the communities we serve.

I look forward to connecting with many more of you in the months ahead.