Three researchers from the College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Syracuse University have recently achieved significant funding and professional recognition. Yalian Pei, an assistant professor, secured support from the Lerner Center Faculty Fellows Grant Program to advance research on health communication and its impact on individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
Pei is investigating how health communication discrimination affects cognitive communication disorders and healthcare utilization for individuals with TBI. The findings from this study aim to shed light on the barriers that hinder access to healthcare for these individuals. Additionally, the research could demonstrate that modifications in health communication can enhance health quality and lead to better recovery outcomes for those affected by TBI.
Distinguished Contributions to Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
In recognition of her extensive contributions to the field, Professor Beth Prieve received the Wayne J. Staab Award from the American Auditory Society. This prestigious award honors individuals who have made extraordinary contributions through service to the organization. Prieve focuses her research on the physiological and behavioral processes of the auditory system, working to improve the diagnosis of hearing loss.
She is the founding director of the Pediatric Audiology Laboratory at Syracuse University, established in 1990. The lab is dedicated to identifying hearing loss in infants and young children, particularly those aged birth to five years. Prieve’s work emphasizes linking auditory physiological processes to hearing impairment, thereby improving early diagnosis and intervention strategies.
Additionally, Megan Leece, a research speech-language pathologist, was honored with the Distinguished Achievement Award from the New York State Speech-Language-Hearing Association. This recognition highlights her clinical, research, and academic achievements. Leece’s contributions include training future professionals, delivering clinical presentations, and executing high-quality therapy in clinical trials.
The award is presented to members of the association who have distinguished themselves within the fields of communication sciences and disorders, particularly in speech-language pathology and audiology. Leece’s accomplishments in clinical research design and her dedication to student training underscore her commitment to advancing the profession.
These honors reflect the ongoing dedication of the Communication Sciences and Disorders Department at Syracuse University to improving health outcomes through innovative research and education.
