Florida State's Dr. Amy Finch Ascends to ASHA Fellow, a Pinnacle of Professional Achievement

In a resounding testament to her profound dedication and transformative contributions, Dr. Amy Finch, the distinguished Director of Florida State University's (FSU) School of Communication Science and Disorders (SCSD), has been honored with the prestigious designation of ASHA Fellow. This esteemed recognition, bestowed by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), represents the highest echelon of achievement within the fields of speech-language pathology and audiology, celebrating those whose exemplary careers have left an indelible mark on the profession.

The ASHA Fellow award is not merely an accolade; it is a profound acknowledgment of an individual's outstanding contributions to the scientific and clinical practice of communication sciences.

Honorees are recognized for their sustained, exceptional impact across various domains, including clinical service, research innovation, educational leadership, and dedicated professional service. Dr. Finch’s elevation to this elite status underscores a career characterized by pioneering efforts and an unwavering commitment to advancing human communication.

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Finch's extensive and impactful career spans a diverse array of responsibilities and achievements. As the guiding force behind FSU's School of Communication Science and Disorders, she has spearheaded initiatives that foster both academic excellence and groundbreaking research. Her clinical expertise is particularly renowned in the intricate areas of aphasia, cognitive-communication disorders, and the complex challenges associated with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Her work directly translates into improved lives for individuals grappling with these conditions, offering hope and tangible progress.

Beyond her administrative and clinical roles, Dr. Finch is a prolific researcher whose investigations have significantly expanded our understanding of communication disorders.

Her insights have not only shaped therapeutic approaches but have also inspired a new generation of clinicians and scholars. Her commitment to education is evident in her passion for mentorship, where she cultivates the talents of students, guiding them to become the future leaders and innovators of the field.

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Finch's dedication extends far beyond the confines of FSU, as demonstrated by her substantial service to ASHA itself. She has lent her invaluable expertise to critical committees, including the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA), where she played a pivotal role in maintaining the rigorous standards that uphold the integrity of academic programs nationwide.

Her active involvement in ASHA's special interest groups further highlights her commitment to collaborative advancement and the sharing of specialized knowledge among peers.

Dr. Stephen McDowell, Dean of the College of Communication and Information, expressed immense pride in Dr. Finch's achievement, stating, “This honor is truly well-deserved and reflects Dr.

Finch’s exceptional leadership, innovative research, and profound impact on our students and the broader field. Her dedication enriches our college and further elevates the national standing of FSU’s School of Communication Science and Disorders.” This sentiment encapsulates the deep respect and admiration Dr.

Finch commands within the academic and professional communities.

This significant recognition for Dr. Finch also casts a bright spotlight on FSU’s School of Communication Science and Disorders. Consistently ranked among the nation's top programs—currently holding the impressive #25 spot nationally for Speech-Language Pathology by U.S.

News & World Report—the SCSD boasts a rich history of excellence dating back to its establishment in 1947. Dr. Finch's ASHA Fellow designation further solidifies the program's reputation as a bastion of innovation, comprehensive education, and impactful research, inspiring current and prospective students to pursue careers that make a real difference in the world of human communication.

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Amy Finch’s ascent to ASHA Fellow is a powerful affirmation of her extraordinary career—a testament to her unwavering pursuit of knowledge, her compassionate clinical practice, and her tireless advocacy for those with communication challenges. Her work continues to resonate, shaping the landscape of communication science and ensuring that FSU remains at the forefront of this vital and evolving field.