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Awards and Scholarships

AKSHA Announces the 2010 Dr. Helen Dittman Beirne Awards
for Commitment to Communication Education

Dr. Helen Beirne was instrumental in starting the Alaska Speech and Hearing Association. She is remembered by a great number of individuals as a role model and mentor in the area of speech and language, and in humanitarian work. In memory of Dr. Beirne, the Alaska Speech and Hearing Association presents this award this year, to a suitably qualified candidate demonstrating a commitment to undertaking studies leading to a graduate degree in communication development and disorders. At this time, in Alaska, it is especially crucial to applaud this pursuit, since there is a shortage of qualified personnel to assist people experiencing communication problems. Applicants should show pursuit of studies in communication, in the area of speech/language or hearing at an accredited institution in the undergraduate or graduate department. The scholarship is valued at $1000.

The award will be determined by the executive board based on information in the award application, teacher recommendations, and/or grades. The committee may give preference to Alaska Native students, and applicants working with Alaska Native population.

Further information may be obtained from the AKSHA website at www.aksha.org or by contacting the Scholarship Committee, Alaska Speech, Language and Hearing Association, 2515 Telequana Drive, Anchorage, AK 99508; e-mail Celia

Applications should be sent directly to Scholarship Committee at above email or street address by August 30, 2010. Download and complete application. Electronic submission is encouraged.

Awards Presented by AHSA

Honors of the Association

The Honors of the Association recognizes distinguished contributions to the field of speech, language and hearing, and is the highest honor the Association can give.

ASHA Fellows

The ASHA Fellows recognizes professional or scientific achievement and is given to members who have made outstanding contributions to the professions. The award is one of the highest honors that ASHA can bestow and is retained for life.

Frank R. Kleffner Clinical Career Award

This award is presented in recognition of exemplary contributions to clinical science and practice in communication science and disorders over a period of no less than twenty-years. The award is an object of art with a recognition plaque. Nominations are due to ASHA by April. Contact ASHA for selection criteria and nominations procedures.

Rolland Van Hattum Award for Contributions in the Schools

This award is presented in recognition of exemplary commitment and contribution to service delivery in the school setting. The award is a plaque and $1000 to the recipient and $500 to the school system. Nominations are due to ASHA by May. Contact ASHA for selection criteria and nomination procedures.

Louis M. DiCarlo Award for Recent Clinical Achievement

Only a state association can nominate an individual to represent that state. This award is for advancement of knowledge in clinical practice as evidenced by significant recent accomplishment within the past six years in speech-language pathology and/or audiology. This award is a plaque and $1500 to further their work. Nominations are due in April to ASHA. Contact Molly Thompson for nomination procedures.

Awards Presented by AKSHA

Outstanding Contributions in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology – The AKSHA Sourdough (2 awards)

This award recognizes an SLP and Audiologist who demonstrates long-term dedication to issues in the state, outstanding clinical, advocacy or leadership skills

Excellence in Clinical Practice – The AKSHA 49’er (2 awards)

This award recognizes an SLP and/or Audiologist who demonstrates innovative ideas in speech language pathology or audiology; may include service delivery, programs, or services.

President’s Award (? Awards)

Given by the president and designed to award special recognition to an executive board member, committee chair or member of the association who provided exemplary service to the association.

Lifetime Member Award (1-2 awards)

This award is designated as a “lifetime achievement” award. The intent of this award is to recognize an outstanding history of clinical practice in the field of speech language pathology and/or audiology.

Outstanding Contributions in Rural Alaska in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology – The Red Lantern

This award recognizes the unique challenges many members work under to provide services to those in our rural areas.

Friend of the Association

A none SLP/Aud who helps advocate for speech language and hearing issues

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