Student Organizations
Joining a student organization is a great way to get involved. You’ll meet people who share the same interests – building lifelong friendships – while gaining professional experience, and honing your leadership skills.
The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders sponsors two student organizations: the UNI chapter of the National Student Speech-Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) and the UNI Deaf Cultural Experience Club. Learn more about these organizations below.
National Student Speech Language & Hearing Association (NSSLHA)
The National Student Speech Language and Hearing Association (NSSLHA) is an organization led by undergraduate and graduate students interested in a career in speech language pathology or audiology.
Members of NSSLHA have the opportunity to hear monthly speakers on topics related to Speech Pathology and Audiology during the All-Chapter meetings. Each year, NSSLHA sponsors a variety of social events, community service and professional development opportunities for its members.
Learn More About NSSHLA at UNI
There are many chances for professional development with our organizations, including various conference opportunities. Every November, many students from the department attend the America Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) National Conference. Many UNI graduate students present their research at the conference.
Each April, NSSLHA sponsors the Iowa Conference on Communicative Disorders (ICCD). Well-known professionals from around the world will speak at the conference held at the Diamond Event Center in Cedar Falls, IA. Professionals can obtain Continued Education Units by attending the guest lectures. NSSLHA members collaborate, organize and plan the conference to make it a learning experience for both professionals and students. This conference is also an opportunity for many graduate students to present their research.
As the number of students enrolled in the department continues to grow, UNI NSSLHA anticipates more members each year.
Our organization has been nominated and has received Student Leadership Awards such as Most Promising New Leader, Student Organization of the Year, Advisor of the Year and Outstanding Officer in a Student Organization. With outstanding student leaders, enthusiastic members and willing professors, UNI NSSLHA will continue to create opportunities for students to participate in service projects and gain valuable experience.
2020-2021 NSSLHA Executive Officers:
President: Emily Scott
Vice President: Bailey Ulrich
Student Body Representative: Carsyn Waller
Senior Representatives: Paige Todd, Stephanie Flores
Junior Representatives: Anna Wanninger, Lily Kurt
Sophomore Representative: Lexi Harpenau
Treasurers: Alyssa Carpita, Noel James
Secretaries: Arijana Omanovic, Alyssa Mason
Student Relations Officers: Adria Allen
Faculty Advisor: Suzanne Dripps
UNI Deaf Cultural Experience Club
UNI Deaf Cultural Experience (DCE) is a student organization that promotes awareness and appreciation to Deaf culture throughout the University of Northern Iowa campus and surrounding community. While DCE is housed in the Communication Sciences & Disorders department our members come from all majors. DCE organizes activities to strengthen ASL skills and advocate for local, state, and national Deaf communities. Cedar Valley Deaf community members often attend events and allow for students to immerse themselves in a culture that is not their own. Examples of events that DCE hosts are ASL yoga, ASL-only meals, and open captioned movies. If you would like more information, reach out on Facebook or email us!