New Education Director brings more than three decades of educational leadership to support the Academy’s next phase of growth
Louisville, KY (July 16, 2026): Heuser Hearing & Language Academy is proud to announce an exciting new chapter with the appointment of Jennifer Cattell as Education Director. A respected educational leader with more than 30 years of experience in school leadership, strategic growth, accreditation, and community-focused education, Cattell will help guide the Academy as it continues to expand opportunities for children who are deaf and hard of hearing or have speech, language and communication disorders.
With a strong background in leading high-performing schools, Cattell will guide Heuser Hearing & Language Academy in advancing its mission to empower children who are deaf or hard of hearing through listening, spoken language, and individualized education. Her leadership will focus on strengthening academic programming, expanding enrollment opportunities, and enhancing community partnerships to ensure long-term sustainability and impact.
“For 78 years, Heuser Hearing & Language Academy has empowered children to find their voices and reach their full potential,” said Brett Bachmann, President and CEO of Heuser Hearing Institute. “Jennifer brings the experience, leadership, and heart needed to build on that legacy while positioning the school for continued growth and innovation. We are thrilled to welcome her to the Heuser family.”
Cattell previously served as Head of School at the Montessori School of Louisville, where she led strategic initiatives that resulted in significant institutional growth, successful accreditation achievements, and expanded facilities. Known for her expertise in curriculum alignment, staff development, and operational excellence, she has consistently fostered inclusive, mission-driven school communities.
“Heuser has a remarkable legacy of transforming lives through education,” said Cattell. “I am honored to join a community so deeply committed to helping children reach their full potential. Together, we will build on this strong foundation while expanding opportunities for students and families.”
At Heuser, Cattell will prioritize:
- Strengthening specialized curriculum and individualized learning plans
- Supporting and developing expert faculty and staff
- Enhancing family engagement and community outreach
- Maintaining excellence in accreditation and regulatory compliance
- Driving long-term enrollment and strategic growth
For more than 75 years, Heuser Hearing & Language Academy has been a leader in providing innovative, evidence-based education for children with hearing differences. With Cattell’s leadership, the Academy is excited to expand its reach and deepen its impact across the region.
About Heuser Hearing & Language Academy:
Heuser Hearing & Language Academy is a comprehensive educational community that exists to empower those with hearing loss or speech, language and communication disorders to reach their full potential and effectively participate in the community. Formerly the Louisville Deaf Oral School, Heuser Hearing & Language Academy (HHLA) was established in 1948 through a joint sponsorship between the Woman’s Club of Louisville and the Kiwanis Club of Louisville.
About Heuser Hearing Institute:
Heuser Hearing Institute, pronounced “Hi-ser,” is a multi-specialty nonprofit campus dedicated to serving children and adults with disorders of hearing, balance, speech-language and communication. The organization has served Louisville and surrounding Kentucky and Indiana communities since its founding as the Louisville Deaf Oral School in 1948. Revenue generated through patient services helps support programs offered through Heuser Hearing & Language Academy.
Today, the institute offers four core programs. Heuser Hearing & Language Academy provides preschool and kindergarten programs for children with speech and hearing challenges. Heuser Hearing Clinic is home to a full-time staff of audiologists serving over 7,000 patients of all ages annually. KY HEARS is a statewide initiative providing hearing healthcare services across Kentucky. The regional Heuser Early Intervention Program provides home-based services for infants and toddlers through the Kentucky and Indiana First Steps programs.
For more information visit www.thehearinginstitute.org.