ISHA was founded on March 21, 1961 when Dr. Charlotte Cleeland, the first speech pathologist hired by Idaho State University, called an organizational meeting in the Student Union building. This included a “handful” of about 12 speech pathologists and audiologists (which constituted the entire population of our profession in Idaho at that time!) They called this organization the “Gem State Speech and Hearing Association”.
Dr Gwenth Vaughn, Chairperson of the Department of Speech Pathology, was elected the first President and Dr. Earl Owens was elected as Vice-President and President-Elect. Dr. Vaughn was active in the early development of speech pathology programs in Idaho. She suggested a name change to “Idaho Speech and Hearing Association” to reflect Idaho’s value and to become affiliated with ASHA.
Those early years were very busy as the founders of ISHA worked hard to lay the foundation and create a positive impression of their profession. According to information of past meetings, there was a great deal of enthusiasm among the speech and hearing professionals. They had great attendance at meetings and frequent correspondence (without the use of computers and cell phones!)
Some highlights of the past 50 years:
- By 1971 there were 50 members (about ½ speech pathologists and ½ were teachers of the hearing impaired
- Funding initially came from ISU, CEC, State Department of Education & Idaho Easter Seals Society
- Dues when ISHA first started were $3
What are your memories of ISHA? Do you know a person that changed you and helped you grow into a better professional? Did you go to convention and have a story you’d like to share? We are looking for stories, memories, pictures….and we want to hear from you! Please write to us!
Anne Kuhlmeier, M.A., CCC/SLP, ATP
President Elect of ISHA
