Message from the President
There has been a significant amount of excitement with the announcement that CAA will be holding an in-person conference in October this year. Although we may continue with many precautions, especially in the clinical setting, relaxing restrictions in public settings has introduced a hopeful atmosphere as people begin to return to pre-pandemic activities and travel. I eagerly anticipate meeting with audiologists from across the country and connecting with friends during the CAA conference.
As I approach the end of my term I have been reflecting on the past year. When talking about clinical practice, terms such as pivot, adapt, adjust, and accommodate, have become commonplace. Our clinical practice changed substantially as we donned PPE, engaged in curbside service, and expanded the provision of virtual care. As audiologists across our country experienced unprecedented challenges to the provision of clinical care, some also experienced professional adversities and/or personal tragedy. But as we see and experience some relief, we recognize how audiologists have endured and persevered through these hardships. As a profession and as individuals our resilience, dedication, and consistent hard work have been remarkable and commendable.
CAA has navigated these challenges with you, offering advice, education, and support. It has been my honour to have worked alongside dedicated volunteers, the Executive Director, and the Administrative Manager. Work on behalf of the Academy, has continued during these past years, never losing focus on our strategic plan and future goals. CAA is the only national association with a sole focus on audiology. If you are reading this Journal and are not yet a CAA member, I encourage you to join and engage. The Academy's priority is ensuring audiologists' voices are always heard. This is key to the continued advancement of our profession and hearing healthcare for our clients. I am proud to be a member of the Academy and to serve the membership. Volunteering with CAA has been a very rewarding experience. It is my hope that you will consider the various CAA committees, task forces, and interest groups and consider how you might also be able to contribute as a volunteer.
CHRIS ALLAN
CAA President