Acquire more space for clinical and educational needs - One of the department’s strategic plan components is to acquire more space. In May 2016 construction and renovation of the additional space to be occupied by the School of Communication Sciences & Disorders began. The space is beside the department’s current space, which will make the transition smooth and seamless. The new space will have two new offices, four new therapy rooms (with two large enough for group therapy), a clinical/academic lab, storage and a dedicated classroom. This, along with the current space gives the department a total of seven therapy rooms (one doubling as a conference room), nine offices, a classroom, a lab, a larger client waiting area, and increased storage. A total of 5485 square feet of space. The therapy rooms will be equipped with monitoring systems that will have recording capabilities.
Fulfill the mission statement of the department to prepare students for employment - As noted above the department’s mission statement was reviewed and changed to better reflect the program’s commitment to excellence. The first cohort is preparing for graduation summer 2016. Informal reports from students indicate that approximately 70% have already secured employment.
Provide outstanding clinical services to the community and university – The departmental clinic is a full service center offering therapy in the fall, spring and summer semesters. As a part of our clinical provision it has been our pleasure to offer a language and literacy summer camp. This is an intensive therapy program for those who present with deficits in language and literacy offering a total of 36 hours of therapy.
Obtain necessary equipment to adequately support both clinical and educational needs – As the program continues to grow and develop we have had the opportunity to purchase equipment that will enhance student learning in a functional manner. The department recently purchased a stroboscopy system, ipads, new audiometer, and other pieces of necessary clinical, research appropriate and academic enhancing equipment. As always we continue to actively review our standardized test to insure that the most up-to-date version of all assessments are purchased and made available to students.
Encourage and support faculty to obtain doctoral degrees in their area of expertise – Andrews University has a very strong educational incentive program that encourages faculty and staff to obtain advanced degrees. The School of Communication Sciences & Disorders has made specific allowances for faculty to complete their PhD or clinical doctorate by adjusting schedules and reducing credit load when appropriate and possible. Currently, two faculty members are completing their PhDs, one faculty member is completing certification in assistive technology, and another is considering pursuing a clinical doctorate in speech-language pathology.
Collaborate with other programs and departments – Several graduate students have chosen to complete the thesis option of the program. This has allowed for collaboration with other institutions and programs such as the Andrews University Music and Education departments, Notre Dame University, and St Mary’s College.
