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MSU students shine at MSHA convention

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Missouri State University students recently showcased their talents and skills at the Missouri Speech Language Hearing Association (MSHA) 2024 Convention.  

Themed “MSHA Momentum,” this year’s convention took place from April 11-14 at Tan-Tar-A resort in Osage Beach, Missouri. The MSHA convention is an annual gathering of speech pathologists, audiologists and students from across the state. It provided an enriching experience for practitioners, faculty and students. 

The convention welcomed undergraduate students in communication sciences and disorders (CSD), as well as graduate students pursuing degrees in speech-language pathology (SLP) and audiology.    

MSU’s Dr. Dee Telting and Jennifer Pratt, clinical associate professor and clinical professor of CSD, respectively, played a pivotal role in organizing the event. It drew hundreds of attendees and featured seminars, workshops and academic competitions.  

A big win for students 

MSU made waves at the convention, particularly in the academic contest, the Quest for the Cup. To win the contest, university teams must answer questions related to speech, language, swallowing and hearing knowledge.  

The MSU SLP graduate students secured the top spot, surpassing rival programs across the state like the University of Missouri and St. Louis University. This was the first time MSU won the cup in eight years. 

“It was really cool they won after so many years. The students were so excited they slept with the trophy that night!” Telting said.  

At the convention, MSU had the honor of nominating one of its CSD graduate students, Avery Brooks, for the title of the top graduate student in Missouri. This nomination recognized her outstanding academic achievements and exceptional performance. 

Additionally, MSU’s graduate students showcased their research projects, offering valuable contributions to the evolving landscape of CSD. 

The convention gave MSU students many learning opportunities and exposure to the latest advancements in their field. It was a chance for them to network with professionals, gain practical insights and hone their skills.   

“One thing I enjoyed most about the MSHA Convention was the unity and camaraderie that resulted when our team won the Quest for the Cup trophy,” Brooks said. “It always feels good to win something as a team, and it was such an electrifying moment to bring the beloved trophy back home to MSU after an eight-year hiatus. It was such a special way to wrap up my graduate experience at MSU.” 

Faculty involvement 

The convention also highlighted the expertise of MSU’s faculty members, who presented on a diverse array of topics. These ranged from integrating specialty services into speech therapy to leveraging artificial intelligence in therapy sessions.  

“I was proud to represent the CSD program,” Telting said. 

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Alumna’s journey from MSU to entrepreneurship

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A proud Missouri State University graduate, Elise Mitchell is an example of how determination and hard work leads to success in life.  

Navigating the challenges of a rigorous curriculum while raising a child on her own, Mitchell’s dedication pushed her beyond obstacles, leading to achievements in the field of speech-language pathology. 

Balancing education and parenthood 

At MSU, Mitchell pursued her bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders (CSD) and her master’s degree in speech-language pathology.

Working as a certified nurse’s assistant sparked her passion for the field. Mitchell completed her bachelor’s and master’s in 2011 and 2013, respectively. 

During her college years, Mitchell faced unique challenges as she raised her son. He often accompanied her to classes and clinic sessions, forming lasting bonds with MSU faculty.

“I was a single mom when I went to MSU. Most of the professors, if they’ve been there long enough, know my son Hayden who’s now 17,” Mitchell said. 

It was not easy, but the support she received helped her to earn her degrees while juggling single parenthood. 

Transitioning to professional life

After graduation, Mitchell embarked on a career in speech therapy. She initially worked in skilled nursing, but after having more kids, she joined the school districts. However, she soon realized the demands of working for Missouri schools as a speech therapy employee did not align with her lifestyle.  

Seeking better opportunities, she transitioned to a teletherapy company, where she gained valuable experience in management and entrepreneurship. 

Entrepreneurial journey 

In 2019, Mitchell decided to chart her own path as a speech therapy contractor, leveraging her expertise to help fellow therapists navigate the complexities of school contracts.  

This led to the creation of her business, The Therapist Support Network, where she developed resources to empower therapists nationwide. To date, Mitchell has assisted over 13,000 therapists, offering them support to contract with school districts for their services. 

“I decided I was going to make it my mission to help speech therapists, occupational therapists and physical therapists who were feeling burnt out,” Mitchell said. 

Recognition and reflection 

Mitchell’s entrepreneurial endeavors have not gone unnoticed. She was recently included in Springfield Business Journal’s 2024 “40 Under 40” list. It is an awards program honoring accomplished and fast-rising professionals in southwest Missouri under the age of 40. 

According to Mitchell, this recognition validated her efforts and dedication.  

“It was really exciting to be nominated,” Mitchell said. “It gave me a chance to reflect and take a look at what I’ve accomplished.” 

Impact of MSU

Reflecting on her time at MSU, Mitchell credits the university’s emphasis on service learning and public affairs for shaping her leadership skills and community involvement. In addition, the supportive faculty in the CSD department played a pivotal role in her development, leaving a lasting impression. She continues to inspire and educate others as an adjunct faculty member at MSU. 

“I had some wonderful professors, so I was very blessed to be taught by them,” Mitchell said. 

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Spreading their wings

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The McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) is proud to announce that 135 students were hooded, pinned or received a white coat within a department or school ceremony for the fall 2023 semester. 

“These ceremonies are crucial in offering the space to celebrate MSU students who have worked hard to excel,” said MCHHS Dean Dr. Mark Smith. 

Students who were hooded or pinned will be graduating, while those who received a white coat will progress to clinical placements. 

Occupational therapy (OT) 

Twenty-five Master of OT students were hooded. 

Nursing 

Forty-five Bachelor of Science in Nursing students were pinned. 

Communication sciences and disorders 

Thirty-two speech-language pathology students were pinned. 

Physician assistant studies (PAS) 

Thirty-three PAS students received white coats. 

Faculty fan-favorites

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We are pleased to recognize assistant professor of communication sciences and disorders, Dr. Bonnie Slavych. 

Let’s learn more about her! 

What brought you to Missouri State? 

Missouri State University has a reputation for supporting both teaching and research.  

When a tenure-track faculty position opened in the communication sciences and disorders department, I was excited to apply.  

My family and I have vacationed in the Branson area for the past 10 years and we have lived here for a year now. We bought a home a few months after arriving because we had confidence that this is where we should be!   

Where are you from? 

My hometown is Nashville, Arkansas. I was in the military early in my life, so I’ve lived abroad and in a few states around the nation. I studied speech-language pathology and practiced as a speech-language pathologist in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.   

How many years have you been at Missouri State? 

I began teaching at MSU in August 2022.   

What’s your favorite part about working here? 

I greatly appreciate Dr. Alana Mantie-Kozlowski’s support for my research endeavors. I also value the interactions with my students. 

At my previous institution, which was primarily focused on teaching, there was little to no support for research.  

Although MSU is known as a “teaching” institution, it provides ample support for research. I find I have more time to focus on my course content, enhance previous sessions and undertake research studies related to learning, compared to my prior workplace where research support was absent. 

What is your favorite memory here so far? 

Being new to MSU, my experiences here are relatively few. 

Most of my energy has been directed toward adapting to the unique dynamics of the place and familiarizing myself with my colleagues, departmental expectations and university expectations. Yet, if I were to pinpoint a standout memory, it would be the day I recognized I could complete my tasks during regular work hours. In the four years before joining MSU, my research often spilled into evenings and weekends.  With MSU’s commendable balance of research and teaching support, I’ve managed to regain some personal time.  

While I occasionally work during off-hours, I no longer feel constantly behind. The most liberating moment was a Saturday this last spring. I spent the entire day with my family, laptop-free and without any lingering anxiety about pending work. 

What are your favorite fall activities or traditions? 

Fall is undoubtedly my most favorite season!  

It’s not just the refreshing chill in the air or the feel of crisp mornings; it’s the warmth of apple cider sipped from a mug, the joy of handing out candy to goblins and ghosts, the aroma of ham and turkey mingling with the laughter of friends and family.  

As we dress the tree, the conversation with my kids about the surprises for which they most hope … these moments make the season for me. 

Learn more about the department of communication sciences and disorders