Student Academy of Audiology

VISION The vision of the national Student Academy of Audiology is to be essential in the lives of audiology students by equipping them with the knowledge to begin a patient-centered career that promotes the profession and advances research in audiology. MISSION The national Student Academy of Audiology (SAA) is the national student division of the American Academy of Audiology that serves as a collective voice for students and advances the rights, interests, and welfare of students of all backgrounds pursuing careers in audiology through the promotion of diversity and inclusivity. The SAA introduces students to lifelong involvement in activities that promote and advance the profession of audiology and provides services, information, education, representation, and advocacy for both the profession and consumers of audiology services. National SAA History National SAA was founded in 2009 after NAFDA (National Association of Future Doctors of Audiology) approached the American Academy of Audiology (the Academy) for support. Various professional healthcare organizations have affiliated student institutions, such as the American Medical Association-Medical Student Section (AMA-MSS) as well as the American Psychological Association (APA), the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Nurses Association (ANA), and the American Veterinary Association (AVA). All have student sections that work together with the parent organization to achieve common goals. In October 2008, Brian Vesely, AuD, Past NAFDA President, and Past Academy President Patrick Feeney, PhD, signed an agreement that merged NAFDA into the Academy's student organization, the national Student Academy of Audiology (SAA). The ultimate goal of the merger was to maintain an independent student voice while maximizing the opportunities that come with joining the Academy. National SAA is getting ready to celebrate its 15 year anniversary this October! Be on the lookout for ways we plan on commemorating this amazing milestone!