The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) announced that Tena L. McNamara, CCC-A/SLP, took office this month as its new president for 2024
McNamara is an audiologist and speech-language pathologist who specializes in aural habilitation/rehabilitation therapy, audiological assessment, literacy, and (central) auditory processing diagnostics and intervention, according to ASHA. Previously, she served ASHA as a member of various councils and ad hoc committees, reviewer for scholarships and awards, and co-chair for the 2021 ASHA Convention in Washington, D.C.
She is also a Fellow of both ASHA and the Illinois Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
“I look forward to working with the ASHA board, staff, and members to expand the legacy of excellence and innovation that ASHA has established over the years,” McNamara says.
As ASHA’s president, McNamara will lead the association’s efforts to advance the professions of audiology and speech-language pathology, advocate for the rights and interests of people with communication disorders, and promote the highest standards of ethical and professional practice, according to the association.
Further reading: ASHA Urges Families to Identify Signs of Hearing Loss for Children
“I am honored and humbled to serve as the president of ASHA,” McNamara says. “I look forward to working with the ASHA board, staff, and members to expand the legacy of excellence and innovation that ASHA has established over the years. I am also excited to embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead as we navigate the changing landscape of health care, education, and technology in the 21st century.”
McNamara’s work experience includes employment in an academic setting for 25 years and practicing as an educational audiologist for 27 years. Currently, she works as an audiologist for a private practice pediatric center and oversees the development of a cultural and educational resource center for children and adults who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families.
