When a child struggles to speak, a stroke survivor fights to swallow or a caregiver searches for answers, the research guiding their care often begins in places like Southeast Missouri State University. At SEMO, communication disorders faculty are not only studying speech, hearing and human connection but are also advancing clinical practice while preparing the next generation of speech-language pathologists and audiologists to serve.
“Our faculty are committed to research that helps individuals, families and communities,” said Dr. Susan Fulton, chair of the Department of Communication Disorders. “Their research influences professional practice and shapes workforce readiness. Just as important, our students are deeply involved in that work, gaining an experience-driven education that prepares them for professional practice and access to research opportunities many universities reserve for doctoral programs.”
Faculty research spans topics such as speech and hearing development, interprofessional collaboration and quality of life for caregivers. Faculty in the program regularly publish, present and collaborate with students on research, giving students invaluable professional experience and the opportunity to be published as an undergraduate.
HOW SEMO FACULTY ARE CONTRIBUTING TO THE FIELD
Improving Quality of Life for Families Navigating Speech and Hearing Challenges
Fulton’s work focuses on speech, hearing and caregiver experiences and the benefits of animal-assisted therapy, with student-led projects examining topics such as professionals’ knowledge of hearing-related needs during examinations and the impact of therapy dog presence in sessions for children with autism. These mentored projects have been presented at the University’s annual Student Research Conference, where SEMO graduate students have earned top honors, and the Missouri Speech-Language-Hearing Association Convention. Fulton also contributes to professional development in the field through workshops on audiological rehabilitation and collaborative research exploring innovative approaches to improving quality of life.
Championing Speech-Language Care
Dr. Samantha Washington’s work includes international and national presentations on culture, religion and lived experience with speech-language pathology, as well as research on autism, stuttering, assistive technology and language development across diverse communities. She has contributed to a Routledge publication, A Guide to Global Language Assessment: A Lifespan Approach. Washington also mentors students on research projects which examine health literacy, caregiver perceptions and more.
Transforming Collaborative Care
Dr. Misty Tilmon’s research centers on interprofessional education and team-based approaches to care, particularly in the areas of dysphagia management and augmentative and alternative communication and has publications in journals such as the Journal of Interprofessional Education and Practice and the Journal of Allied Health. Tilmon also guides student research on interprofessional education and evidence-based practice in feeding and swallowing disorders.
Through active research and hands-on mentorship, communication disorders faculty ensure students learn from professionals who are shaping the future of their field. Faculty mentor students as they study, collect data and present findings at local, state and national conferences.
These experiences provide students with critical research skills while reinforcing the clinical knowledge they apply in their undergraduate and graduate courses.
SEMO graduates enter the workforce ready to improve communication access, strengthen families and elevate care in communities nationwide. See how you can join them at semo.edu/commdisorders.