USA Student Academy of Audiology

We are lucky to learn from some of the best in the business! Vote Dr. Peyton Williams for Best Audiologist now through May 31st! 💛🎉

https://www.votenappies.com/ #//

Congratulations to the Class of 2026!🎓🦻🏼🎉👂🏽

Your resilience, knowledge, and compassion have led you to this incredible achievement. We are so proud of all you have accomplished and look forward to your impact on the profession!

Special congratulations to our three students recognized during the department ceremony

Dr. Katherine Snavley, Class of 2026 Deans Award for Audiology

Dr. Mackenzie Glass, Class of 2026
Outstanding Audiology Student

Dr. Elise Money-Nolan, Class of 2026
Deans Award for Ph.D.

Congratulations to Grace Fairchild on her research poster presentation at the American Academy of Audiology Convention in San Antonio, Texas! We are proud of you! 📋👂🏽

“I presented a poster entitled “Vestibular Migraine and SSRI Withdrawal” at AAA in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Sarah Redding & Dr. Ashley Flagge both contributed to this poster.

Additionally, I had the opportunity to participate in AAA’s inaugural Advocacy Ambassador program, joining a group of audiologists dedicated to advocating for our profession & patients in state and federal legislatures.”

April Student of the Month: Chloe Lawson🌷

Hi everyone! My name is Chloe Lawson, and I am a 2nd year AuD student from Huntsville, Alabama.

Coming to South has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. With it being the last month before externship I have had time to reflect on the 2 years I have spent here.

When I first arrived, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the faculty immediately made me feel at home. Every professor here is not only incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about audiology, but also genuinely invested in your success as a student and as a future clinician.
But it hasn’t just been the academics that have made these two years so special, it’s the people. My classmates are hardworking, fun to be around, and have made even the most stressful semesters a lot more bearable.

Heading into externship, I feel prepared and genuinely excited for what’s next. This program has given me a strong foundation, and I’m grateful for everyone who has been a part of it.

Congratulations to our second-years on earning their white coats! 🥼🤍

Your hard work and dedication have brought you to this exciting milestone and we couldn’t be more proud. We can’t wait to see all the amazing things you’ll accomplish as you begin your externships! 🎉

Our first year students had some fun in the sun and celebrated their last day of classes by having Management of Vestibular Disorders outside! Thanks Dr. Adams for a fun last class🥳☀️🤓🏫

March Student Spotlight: Samantha-Drew Swindle💚

Hi, my name is Samantha-Drew Swindle! I am a third year AUD student from Tuscaloosa, AL (Roll Tide!). I completed my undergraduate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Mississippi University for Women.

South Alabama was the clear choice for me because of the hands-on clinical opportunities that provide real world experience, combined with faculty who genuinely support and mentor their students toward success. The opportunity to live at the beach with my grandparents was a plus too!

I particularly enjoy working with the adult population, especially through my clinical experience with cochlear implant patients. Walking through every stage, from initial testing to activation, and witnessing their progress has been incredible. Forming genuine connections with patients, supporting them throughout their hearing journey, and watching them reach milestones has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of this program.

I chose audiology because I can’t imagine living in a silent world. Sound connects us to the people we love, to music, to nature, and to so much of what makes life meaningful. The opportunity to help people with their hearing feels incredibly rewarding, knowing that I could help someone hear their grandchild‘s voice or enjoy your conversation with friends makes this career path meaningful to me. I am also passionate about enhancing my patients quality of life and preventing hearing loss before it happens through proactive education.

What draws me to audiology is that it’s more than just science and technology. It’s about restoring connections between people. I’m passionate about being a part of a profession where I can truly change lives for the better. The education and clinical experience I’ve gained at South Alabama have prepared me well for the future, and I’ve made countless memories along the way!

Grand Rounds! 💙

Cally Watson - Effects of Pressure Equalization Tubes on Test Results
Olivia West - Pediatric Fluctuating Hearing Loss
Evelyn Quiej - Congenital Cytomegalovirus (CCMV)
Simone Holmes - Pediatric Temporal Linear Skull Fractures and the Hidden Risk of Hearing Loss

First Grand Rounds of the semester!📈👂✅

Anna LeBlanc: Noise Induced Hearing Loss: Impulse Noise
Sierra Mitchell: Congenital Syphilis and the Risk of Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Case Study
Alikah McCombs: Extended NICU Stays: An Audiologic Risk Factor
Addison Rhodes: Meningitis in Infants: A Case Review

Our first year students took a trip to tour the Department of Veteran Affairs Gulf Coast Healthcare Audiology Facility in Biloxi, MS! They had a great time learning about externship opportunities, touring the facility and resume building!