The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders in Samford University’s School of Health Professions is committed to serving individuals with communication, swallowing and hearing needs through faith-based academic coursework and clinical experiences.
To continue that mission, the department is launching the Listening and Spoken Language Focused Study Initiative, or LSL-FSI, made possible by a generous gift from the Hill family. This program supports the department’s ongoing efforts to promote lifelong learning, uphold ethical standards and improve the lives of those it serves.
According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, two to three out of every 1,000 children in the United States are born deaf or hard of hearing. There is a critical national shortage of speech-language pathologists trained in listening and spoken language.
Listening and Spoken Language Specialist certification equips professionals with the specialized knowledge and skills needed to support children who are deaf or hard of hearing using this approach. The initiative addresses this growing need by preparing future professionals to serve individuals using listening and spoken language.
To lead the initiative, the department welcomes Kameron C. Carden as assistant professor and director of clinical education. Carden is a certified listening and spoken language specialist with more than 15 years of experience. She holds a doctorate in special education from The University of Alabama, a master’s degree in speech-language pathology from the University of Florida and a bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders from the University of Georgia.
Her research focuses on language development, assessment practices and eligibility determination for preschoolers who are deaf or hard of hearing. This expertise will guide graduate students through evidence-based training in listening and spoken language practices, preparing them to help young children learn to listen and talk.
The LSL-FSI aims to provide focused and intentional training opportunities for speech-language pathology students in evidence-based listening and spoken language practices, preparing them to serve young children who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families. It also creates pre-professional opportunities for students interested in pursuing Listening and Spoken Language Specialist certification through the Alexander Graham Bell Academy after graduation.
Carden’s education and experience will help students understand best practices for serving children who are learning to listen and talk, as well as their families. Her dedication to advancing the field and mentoring future professionals makes her a valuable addition to the School of Health Professions, the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders and the broader community.
