Twenty-five years ago, I was asked to be the Woman’s Club representative on the Heuser Hearing Institute Board of Directors. I was particularly interested in hearing health because my cousin Connie is deaf. She attended Gallaudet University and uses sign language. She has four hearing children. The Woman’s Club didn’t know that I had a connection to hearing loss and a passion for the deaf community when they asked me to join the board.
One of my favorite projects that I have worked on over the past twenty-five years was the capital campaign for the organization’s current location. I made several of the fundraising asks. I can’t believe the changes and the progress that Heuser has made in the hearing industry. I’ve also enjoyed attending the graduation ceremony each year, when the children get up and speak. It makes my heart feel good to see that they are ready to go on to their neighborhood schools. I’ve also enjoyed working on the garden with Peggy Duane, the golf tournaments and various fundraisers held at Brad and Carla Sue Broecker’s home.
I served as President of the Board and have really enjoyed my service. I’ve met some wonderful people along the way. My hope for Heuser Hearing Institute going forward is that more people get involved and see the wonderful programs and services that are available for children and adults with hearing loss.