Still trying to decide if attending the annual FLAA convention this year is right for you? Hear what some members have to say about their experiences at FLAA and why they attend regularly. These comments are from a retired Audiologist, practicing audiologist, Audiology student and Audiology clinic business owner.
Retired Audiologist Bettina Sanders Tucker, Au.D., CCC-A
Retired VA Audiologist (32+ years)
1. When did you join FLAA and why do you think supporting your state organization is important?
I joined FLAA in 1997 and have attended the annual convention most years.
Regarding the importance of supporting our state organization, my first thought is “why not”?
Having been a member of FLASHA and ASHA since the mid 1970’s and AAA since 1992, it seemed only natural to join and support a state organization just for audiologists. It is my belief that as a united group the audiologists in the State of Florida have a bigger voice and perhaps make a bigger impact on issues that involve legislation, licensure, insurance and/or educational issues.
2. Why do you enjoy going to the FLAA convention?
I appreciate the opportunity to obtain quality CEU’s and learn from exhibitors at local venues.
FLAA conventions are both a time and money savings as compared to attending out-of-state conventions and meetings, plus we are supporting our Florida economy. What I truly enjoy about FLAA is the chance to “catch-up” with former classmates, colleagues and students. For me it is like attending a family reunion…..my Audiology family!
3. What do feel like you gain from attending the annual FLAA convention?
In addition to the obvious and necessary CEUs, I gain a better awareness of current practices, concerns and challenges outside of my daily work environment. Most importantly, I leave FLAA each year with a renewed interest and pride in Audiology. (That is a pretty good feeling after 40 years of practice.)
Fourth year U.S.F. Audiology Student Rachel Conter
1. When did you join FLAA and why do you think supporting your state organization is important?
I joined FLAA two years ago as a 2nd year audiology student. I believe it is important to support state organizations as they have the unique ability to stay informed at both a national and local level. Not only are they interested in benefiting the profession as a whole, but state organizations provide support directly related to our state’s position.
2. Why do you enjoy going to the annual FLAA convention?
The annual FLAA convention is a great opportunity to catch up on local news, as well as learning about the latest research and products. I enjoy being able to have discussions with presenters and exhibitors, with opportunities to delve into topics outside of the conference room. As a student, it is excellent for networking and I always walk away with many new connections.
3. What do feel like you gain from attending the annual FLAA convention?
FLAA is a convention that provides well-rounded continuing education. I leave with knowledge in all aspects of audiology, including clinical, academic, and legislative, in addition to meeting many new faces. I look forward to attending and supporting FLAA for many years to come.
Practicing Audiologist Angela Schenk AU.D.
1. When did you join FLAA and why do you think supporting your state organization is important?
I was an on again-off again member from 1999-2006. I rejoined FLAA in 2013 when I moved back to Florida and have maintained that membership. Supporting my state organization allows me to have a local network of like-minded professionals looking to improve our patient’s lives. Additionally, supporting our local organization allows for stronger presence I joined FLAA to be a part of the local network of Audiologists looking to improve our patients’ quality of life our profession. It allows me to network with others with differing specialties allowing me to grow professionally.
2. Why do you enjoy going to the annual FLAA convention?
I enjoy the FLAA convention for several reasons. First, I enjoy the opportunity to hear and learn what the organization is doing for us, not only locally, but within the national spectrum with respect to our presence in the medical field. Secondly, I enjoy the classes. Each year courses seemed to be geared around a topic or topics relevant not only to the practice of Audiology, but the also the business of Audiology. Classes are designed to keep us up to date and I enjoy and learn a lot each year. Third, I enjoy the exhibit hall. It’s an opportunity to visit with manufacturers and companies to find out what is new and exciting. Finally, it is a chance to catch up with friends/colleagues near and far.
3. What do feel like you gain from attending the annual FLAA convention?
I gain not only updated information regarding Audiology, new friends/colleagues, but also the knowledge that you have an organization fighting to make us the best we can be. This is evident in the course offerings but also with the Business Meeting and President’s Reception where you hear more of the behind the scene information.
Audiology Business Owner Daniel Gardner M.S.
In addition to students and clinicians, businesses should also consider supporting FLAA and encouraging their audiologists to attend. Here is what one business owner had to say about why he supports FLAA.
“The FLAA convention is the only convention that I pay for my audiologist to attend because it gives them a chance to network with others and get a better feeling for what’s going on in Florida. I feel like investing in the Florida Academy so I pay their dues, admission into the convention, and their lodging while they’re there; that’s how important I feel the state meeting is. The annual meeting also gives my employees a chance to get together and have meetings while we are there; we mix Florida Academy business, professional business, and then also our practice business, all in one visit because it is a great atmosphere to accomplish this.”
It’s not too late to register! Join us August 4-6 at the Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek in Orlando, Florida to enjoy all that the Florida Academy of Audiology’s 20th Annual Convention has to offer.
Go online to floridaaudiology.org/convention-information to register and see the at-a-glance schedule for the convention.