Name: Annette N. Askren, CScD, CCC-SLP
Earned Degree(s)/University: Doctor of Clinical Science from the University of Pittsburgh; Master of Arts from San Diego State University
Workplace: VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, West Virginia University
Area(s) of research, teaching, and/or clinical interest: ALS, Clinical education, Bioethics
1. Why did you join the communication committee?
When I am seeking membership and educational opportunities from an organization, I frequently ask myself, “Will this provide practice-changing information?” ANCDS always delivers. I wanted to be a part of this invaluable organization. ANCDS promotes the very best, in both the discovery and application of best practices, much of which has changed my practice for the better.
2. Who is one of your professional mentors? What have you learned from that person?
Dr. Carole Roth, our 2022 President, was my first mentor as supervisor of my clinical internship at the Naval Medical Center, San Diego. While she taught me a lot about speech-language pathology, she taught, and modeled, more about what it means to provide a standard of excellence for her patients. She drove me to seek the very best training opportunities, and I owe much of my career path to her. I am lucky to now call Dr. Roth a dear colleague and friend.
3. What are you looking forward to as newsletter co-editor?
I look forward to the opportunity to ensure readers feel they can easily stay abreast of the remarkable contributions our members are making to our field. Such features have sparked many of my independent reads and expanded my learning.
4. What do you do for fun?
My favorite place is outside, and we have lots to choose from in Washington state. I enjoy rock climbing, hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, and paddleboarding — especially doing so alongside my adventure buddies. I enjoy including my hound dog, Bailey, too.
