MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Welcome to the Missouri Speech-Language-Hearing Association (MSHA).  I am happy you found our website and are interested in knowing more about our association.  To date, our organization has over 1,300 members. These members are comprised of speech-language pathologists, audiologists, related professionals and students.  Membership in our association unites us in our common goal of providing professional services to those with communication disorders in all types of employment settings such as schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, etc.  In addition, the organization serves as an advocate for our professions with governmental affairs and encourages collaboration with related associations. 

To help us serve our members and therefore, our clients, MSHA is governed by an Executive Board.  The Executive Board consists of a President (Karen Kerns), President-Elect/Treasurer (Beverly Jean Zimmer), Past President (Nancy Montgomery), Vice President for Communication (Jane Webb), Vice President for Legislative Affairs (Lynnette Cowherd), Vice President for Audiology Services (Kerri Helms), Vice President for School Services (Brenda Martien), Vice President for Clinical Services (Sharon Sowder), Vice President for Professional and Public Relations (Elizabeth McKerlie) and a Graduate Student Board Member (Jamie Stogner).  These individuals hold meetings at least four times per year to discuss association business, set budgets and review MSHA’s contracts with outside agencies.  In addition to hearing reports from each Board member, the Executive Board (EB) also hears updates from MSHA’s Business Manager (Robert Craven), Central Office Account Manager (Theresa Zamagias), ASHA’s Advisory Councilors/STARs/MICs/SEALs/etc., and MSHA committees.  Members are encouraged to volunteer on committees and attend Executive Board meetings.  Dates, times, agendas and locations of upcoming board meetings will be posted on this website so please check back often and get in touch with us if you would like to attend or have any business for consideration.

In short, MSHA is an organization that strives to improve communication.  Without communication, the world becomes isolated and as professionals, we vow to work with those who have difficulty communicating to unlock the world for them.  Let us show you how you can get involved.  If you have any questions or would like to discuss anything, please get in touch with any Executive Board member or Central Office.  Our contact information can be found on this website.  Thank you for your interest in MSHA, and we look forward to hearing from you soon. 

Very truly yours,
Karen Kerns, M.S., CCC-SLP
President, Missouri Speech-Language-Hearing Association

karenkslp@yahoo.com