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Tier 1

Ethics

Hub

Ticket Required

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Legal, Ethical, and Professional Issues (LEPI)

Advocacy Ambassador Program: Federal Advocacy 101 - C1

OL105 - Advocacy Ambassador Program: Federal Advocacy 101 - C1

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

2:15 PM - 3:00 PM CST

Location: Room 221 CD

Instructional Level: Fundamental

Lead Presenter(s)

JZ

Joanne Zurcher, MPP (she/her/hers)

Vice President of Government Relations and Policy
American Academy of Audiology

Disclosure(s): Financial - American Academy of Audiology: Employment (Terminated); Nonfinancial - No nonfinancial relationships to disclose

PDF Slides

Presenter(s)

TS

Tina Stern, AuD

University of Miami Health System

Disclosure(s): No financial or nonfinancial relationships to disclose.
Tracy Murphy, AuD

Audiologist/Owner
North Shore Audiology Consultants
Highland Park, Illinois

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

Abstract: Academy volunteer and staff advocacy leaders will provide a clear, practical look at how audiologists can navigate the complexities of federal policymaking and advance the profession’s priorities. This session offers real-world examples, interactive discussion, and proven strategies to help participants build influence, engage effectively with key legislative stakeholders, and organize impactful advocacy efforts at the national level. Attendees will leave with a stronger understanding of the federal landscape, greater confidence in their ability to communicate with policymakers, and the tools needed to drive meaningful change through informed, sustained advocacy.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion, participants will understand the skills needed to successfully navigate the challenges of federal policymaking and advocating for the profession's priorities.
Upon completion, participants will be able to utilize Academy tools and resources to keep up to date with policy developments and organize advocacy efforts at the grassroots level.
Upon completion, participants will be able to engage with key legislative stakeholders relevant to advancing audiology with a deeper understanding of the need for political action committees and grassroots support.