Over the years, PSHA has made it a priority to increase student involvement in the organization. Specifically, the organization has invited students to the PSHA Hill Day in October and is currently working with NSSLHA chapters to execute the Content Creation Program, made possible by a grant from ASHA. Our Content Creation Program encouraged NSSLHA chapters to work with committees and executive board members to create social media content to inform the public about evidence-based practices in speech language pathology and audiology. Two student awards and a NSSLHA Chapter Honors are given each year.
Chapter Honors
The Chapter Honors Award recognizes a NSSLHA chapter that demonstrates outstanding service to the community, profession, and organization through outreach, innovation, and engagement.
Award
The selected chapter receives $100 to support student attendance at the upcoming PSHA Convention.
Deadline
March 1
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online.
Applications are due February 15, 2026.
Past Award Recipients
Chapter Honors
2024 – Misericordia University
2023 – Marywood University
2022 – Marywood University
2021 – Penn State University
2020 – Marywood University and Misericordia University
2019 – Misericordia University
2018 – Misericordia University
2017 – Misericordia University
2016 – Misericordia University
2015 – Misericordia University
2014 – University of Pittsburgh
2013 – Bloomsburg University
2012 – Misericordia University
2011 – Misericordia University
2010 – Bloomsburg University
2009 – Bloomsburg University
2008 – Bloomsburg University
2007 – Bloomsburg University
2006 – Bloomsburg University
2005 – Indiana University of PA
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Von Drach Memorial Scholarship
The Pennsylvania Speech-Language-Hearing Association (PSHA) established the Von Drach Memorial Scholarship in memory of Dr. Robert Von Drach and in recognition of his dedication and years of service to the profession. The scholarship is awarded annually to a qualified student who is enrolled full-time in an entry level academic degree for professional level certification candidacy in speech-language pathology, audiology, or education of the hearing impaired within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. All qualified students are encouraged to apply. Please adhere to the application guidelines below.
The deadline for applications is on February 15, 2026.
NOMINEE GUIDELINES
- The nominee shall be a full-time student in an entry level academic degree program for professional level certification candidacy in speech-language pathology, audiology, or education of the hearing impaired within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
- The nominee shall be a student member of PSHA.
- The nominee shall have a minimum grade point average of 3.25 and have completed at least nine semester credit hours of the program.
- The nominee shall have demonstrated (a) a desire to grow professionally, (b) participation in professional activities, and (c) leadership qualities within departmental/community activities (e.g., committee or organization membership such as NSSHLA or volunteered time in professional events).
APPLICATION GUIDELINES
Nominees will:
- Complete and submit the application online with the required documents.
- Submit two letters of recommendation from individuals who can write in support of the nominee’s professional organization and academic standing. One letter should highlight the nominee's academic achievement. The second letter should highlight the nominee's clinical achievement and leadership abilities. These letters will be uploaded through the electronic application.
- Submit transcripts (official or unofficial) from the college or university that the nominee is currently attending. (Nine semester credit hours must have been completed prior to application). The transcript is to be uploaded through the electronic application.
SELECTION PROCESS
The Scholarship Selection Committee shall be made up of a panel of five professionals in the field of speech-language pathology, audiology and/or education of the hearing impaired who can serve as impartial judges (i.e., who are not affiliated with the training program of any nominee).
The Von Drach Memorial Scholarship recipient will be selected based on the applicant's letter of application, academic performance, and letters of recommendation, not financial need. Applicants will be notified of the Scholarship Selection Committee’s decision in writing in March.
The Von Drach Memorial Scholarship recipient will be invited to the Awards Ceremony during the Annual Pennsylvania Speech-Language-Hearing Association Convention, where he/she will be recognized.
Applications will be accepted through February 15, 2026.
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President’s Student Award
Purpose
The President’s Student Award recognizes students who demonstrate exemplary service and commitment to PSHA.
Award
$250 per selected recipient
Eligibility
• Full-time student in an entry-level professional degree program in Pennsylvania
• PSHA student member
• Demonstrated record of direct service to PSHA
Application Requirements
• Online application
• Statement of service to PSHA
Deadline
February 15
Recognition
Recipients are honored at the PSHA Annual Convention.
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