OL203 - Advocacy 101: A Navigational Guide for Audiology Leaders

Thursday, March 27, 2025

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM CST

Location: Expo Hall B, First Floor

Earn 0.1 CEUs

Instructional Level: Fundamental

Lead Presenter(s)

JZ

Joanne Zurcher

Vice President of Government Relations and Policy
American Academy of Audiology

Disclosure(s): No financial or nonfinancial relationships to disclose.

PDF Slides

Presenter(s)

Melissa E. Heche, AuD (she/her/hers)

Director
New York Speech and Hearing
New York , New York

Disclosure(s): Financial: No financial relationships to disclose; Nonfinancial: Private Practice – New York Speech and Hearing
MM

Michelle Moore

Manager of Government Relations
American Academy of Audiology

Disclosure(s): No financial or nonfinancial relationships to disclose.

Abstract:
This session offers an engaging, comprehensive guide to navigating the complex landscape of federal policymaking, identifying key legislative and agency players, and creating your elevator pitch to tell your story to influencers. Participants will leave equipped with actionable strategies for influencing policy and communicating effectively with decision-makers at both the grass-tops and grassroots levels. Join us to gain the confidence and practical tools you need to amplify your voice, drive change, and support the audiology community on a national scale.

Learning Objectives:

Identify and engage with key legislative stakeholders relevant to advancing audiology with a deeper understanding of the need for political action committees and grassroots support.
Effectively communicate advocacy messages by crafting clear, concise, and compelling narratives tailored to policymakers, including the use of evidence and patient stories.
Utilize Academy tools and resources for keeping up to date with policy developments and organizing advocacy efforts at the grassroot level.