New ASHA CEO
On April 29th, ASHA CEO Arlene A. Pietranton announced her retirement.
However, Pietranton will continue as CEO for the foreseeable future while the search for her successor gets underway. As a result, ASHA has engaged the executive search firm Spencer Stuart, Washington, D.C, contact: Leslie Hortum.
Overall, it is exciting that we will have a new CEO, who could have a strong impact on ASHA’s commitment to diversity, if they go in the right direction.
Firstly, as paying ASHA members, we deserve to participate in the decision making process. As a result, here are some ways you can participate today!
How You Can Get Involved
As always, SLPs of Color is on top of this initiative.
First, they created a Canva Template. “Transparency, Racial Justice, and Equity in the ASHA CEO Search”. Make sure to repost it wherever you can!
Second, they created a petition letter you can sign.
ASHA CEO Petition Letter
- Overall, a transparent, participatory, and inclusive candidate search and selection process.
- Next, searches for university presidents are notable for their transparency. Additionally, they are recognized for the focus on hiring someone credible to the university community. Someone who will work in the community’s interest.
- Thirdly, The Board of Directors should inform members of the search process in regular updates, linked to the ASHA.org home page. This communication should inform of anticipated milestones, and allow members to give feedback on the search process.
- Above all, make CEO Position Requirements and Position Description available. Have this be discussed in a public forum that allows members to give feedback.
- Similarly, ensure finalists demonstrate a history of working against systemic forms of exclusion, and working for social justice, equity, inclusion and diversity. The pledge items found at this site is one resource for evaluating the qualities of the candidates.
- We ask that the BOD provide membership with the opportunity to hear about the qualifications, experiences, and leadership vision of the finalist candidates.
- Additionally, CEO candidates should participate in a live forum with ASHA members.
- Clarity if there is an expectation that the candidates will be anonymous. A web-based chat with the finalist would allow anonymity, while still allowing for input from the membership. Members of ASHA should have an opportunity to complete a survey to express opinions that the Board will read.
- We ask that the search be broad, and that candidates from across the country be sought.
- We ask for regular updates through a webpage that can be accessed through the ASHA.org home page. “
Sign the Petition
I endorse the SLPs of Color’ petition and have already signed. They also ask that you do not donate to Change.org as this money will not go to SLPs of Color. If you’d like to donate to them, click here.
What are you hoping to see with the new ASHA CEO? Comment below!
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