President's Message

By 2009-2010 GAA President Gerry Drumheller, Au.D.

Refreshed from a vacation of relaxing on a sunny beach, I begin my term as President of GAA.  I am excited and frightened. I strongly believe in and support the only organization of, by and for the audiologists of Georgia. I follow the leadership of Helena Solodar, who has been a huge inspiration, as I attempt to maintain her enthusiasm for the profession and the exceptional academy we have in Georgia. I will try my best.

I welcome the new members to our Board of Directors and committees, and thank those who are leaving for their incredible dedication to the academy. We have accomplished a lot and have more work to do.  

This year we plan another “Day at the State House” to educate and inform the leadership of this state on the importance of the work we do for the citizens of Georgia. We are addressing the workman’s compensation formula through the hard work of our legislative committee. We are also planning continuing education seminars this fall.

We also face challenges.  The academy has experienced the downturn in the economy, as most of us have in some way. We are striving to trim our budget while maintaining the quality organization we have built. We will make tough decisions and appreciate your support.

So, get ready for another great year. We need your input and suggestions to help be the best academy for YOU.  Keep informed by reading our website. Volunteer to help. Encourage others to join.

MISSION AND VISION STATEMENT: The Georgia Academy of Audiology is a professional organization of audiologists and friends of the audiology community that promotes quality hearing and balance care by advancing the profession of audiology through leadership, advocacy, education, public awareness, and support of research.*

The Georgia Academy of Audiology’s vision is to be essential in the professional lives of audiologists by:

•        Advancing the science and practice of audiology, and

•        Achieving public recognition of audiologists as experts in hearing and balance.

The Georgia Academy of Audiology shall be recognized as the professional organization for audiologists in the State of Georgia.

*We would like to acknowledge and thank the American Academy of Audiology for their inspiration in creating a mission statement that we have adapted for our state association.