Hampton University’s Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders directly supports the University’s strategic initiative “Elevating Hampton Excellence” and its mission to deliver the “#1 Student Experience in America.” As the oldest degree-granting program in the Nation at an HBCU, our Department has trained more African American SLPs than any other institution in the Nation, an accomplishment recognized by the Council of Academic Programs in Communicative Sciences and Disorders (CAPCSD) in 2004.

Beginning with just a few courses in the Department of English in the early 1950s, the program grew to be a full-fledged program by 1954 under the leadership of Dr. Robert M. Screen. In 1963, the program became a Department entitled the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology. After having undergone several name changes, the Department is now known as the Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders. In 1978, the Department initiated its Graduate Program. By 1986, it became the third degree-granting program at an HBCU to receive accreditation by ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) of its Graduate Program in Speech-Language Pathology. Each subsequent review by ASHA has resulted in re-accreditation of the Department’s Graduate Program, with the most recent re-accreditation having occurred in 2018 for 8 years (2018-2026).

The Department has been ranked as a Best Grad School for Speech Language Pathology, ranking in the top 50% of SLP graduate programs by US News and World Reports (140 out of 316 graduate speech language pathology programs). The department celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2024, commemorating decades of excellence in preparing speech-language pathologists and audiologists who serve as global leaders in healthcare and education.

Our strategic plan directly aligns with Hampton University’s aspirations for R1 research university status, the $1 billion endowment goal, and the commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and service that defines the Hampton experience.

MISSION STATEMENT

Aligned with Hampton University’s Mission of Global Leadership and Service

The mission of the Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders is to promote learning, build character, and holistically prepare undergraduate and graduate students for positions of global leadership and lives of service in the fields of speech-language pathology and audiology. Consistent with Hampton University’s commitment to innovation and the creation of new knowledge, our academic programs disseminate current, evidence-based knowledge of speech, language, hearing, and swallowing disorders while providing diverse clinical experiences in the identification, evaluation, and treatment of communication and swallowing disorders across culturally diverse populations.

The Department’s research, grantsmanship, clinical, and community service activities support Hampton University’s strategic priority to achieve R1 research university status while maintaining our commitment to an education for life that prepares students to meet the minimum requirements for professional certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, state licensure, and teacher certification.

VISION STATEMENT

Supporting Hampton’s Vision to Deliver the #1 Student Experience in America

The Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders will be nationally and internationally recognized for delivering the #1 student experience in America through outstanding training of undergraduate and graduate students in the fields of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. We will be specifically known for our expert provision of culturally and linguistically sensitive care across the lifespan among diverse populations, our student-centered learning approaches, innovative research experiences that contribute to Hampton’s R1 aspirations, and clinical practice in diverse communities that exemplifies Hampton’s commitment to service and global leadership.

CORE VALUES

Aligned with Hampton University’s Core Values of Respect, Professionalism, Integrity, and Community

Excellence and Innovation: We value a commitment to excellence in clinical service, research, and education that supports Hampton’s strategic goal of academic excellence and innovation.

Student-Centered Success: We are results-oriented in student education, directly supporting Hampton’s mission to deliver the #1 student experience in America.

Diversity and Global Engagement: We value diversity in students and our community, consistent with Hampton’s respect for diverse cultures and commitment to global leadership.

Integrity and Ethics: High ethical standards and equitable actions guide us, reflecting Hampton University’s core value of integrity.

Collaboration and Service: We promote collaboration, inclusive practices, and innovation in research and teaching that supports Hampton’s commitment to service and community engagement.

ORGANIZATIONAL VALUES

Grounded in Hampton University’s Code of Conduct and Standard of Excellence

The faculty, students, and staff of the Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders believe that all individuals must be treated with dignity and respect and assert that all individuals with communication disorders are entitled to live full, rewarding lives. Accordingly, we align ourselves with Hampton University’s Code of Conduct and THE Standard of Excellence:

RESPECT: To respect one’s self and the dignity, feelings, worth, and values of others to foster a culture of service excellence PROFESSIONALISM: To foster a personal professional work ethic and an open, fair, and caring environment INTEGRITY: To respect the rights and property of others and to practice personal, professional, and academic integrity COMMUNITY: To discourage discrimination while striving to learn from differences in people, ideas, and opinions

Further, we are committed to the continued pursuit of excellence in all of our endeavors; ethical conduct in research, teaching, and clinical practices; and the maintenance and pursuit of collaborative partnerships that enable us to sustain excellence and achieve optimal outcomes in support of Hampton University’s strategic priorities.

STRATEGIC GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Directly Aligned with Hampton University’s Six Strategic Priorities

GOAL 1: ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND STUDENT SUCCESS

Supporting Hampton Priority 1: Enhance Academic Experience and Student Success

The Department’s academic and clinical programs will maintain excellence through rigorous, continuous, and scheduled review while delivering the #1 student experience in America.

Objectives:

1. Offer a graduate training program that meets the accreditation standards of the Council of Academic Programs in Communicative Sciences and Disorders, supporting Hampton’s commitment to academic excellence
2. Prepare students for global leadership positions in speech-language pathology and audiology through academic and clinical practicum requirements for professional certification by ASHA and for state licensure and teacher certification
3. Foster attitudes conducive to meeting the highest professional standards, promoting equity among persons and the community, and engaging in ethical practices consistent with Hampton’s character-building mission
4. Actively engage students in directed research experiences that contribute to Hampton’s R1 research university aspirations

Action Steps:

• Recruit and retain highly qualified faculty and staff consistent with Hampton’s faculty excellence goals
• Recruit, retain, and graduate highly qualified, culturally responsive students from diverse populations supporting Hampton’s diversity commitments
• Offer a curriculum that aligns with ASHA certification, licensure, and teaching certification standards while incorporating innovative pedagogical approaches
• Support faculty/student teams producing research projects that contribute to Hampton’s research portfolio
• Promote continuing education among faculty and staff supporting Hampton’s commitment to lifelong learning

Outcome Measures:

• Program accreditation by ASHA (Current: Accredited through 2026)
• Student demographics reflecting Hampton’s diversity goals
• Program completion rates (Current: 96% three-year average)
• PRAXIS pass rate (Current: 96% three-year average)
• Faculty/student research projects contributing to Hampton’s research profile
• Graduate employment rates demonstrating preparation for global leadership

Recent Achievements:

• Department has continued to recruit and retain highly qualified faculty and staff
• All student teams produced research projects presented at professional conferences
• All faculty received ASHA Learning Pass for professional development
• Five graduate students received Virginia Early Intervention Initial Certification
• Hampton NSSLHA chapter received Gold Honors for the 4th consecutive year

GOAL 2: RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION

Supporting Hampton Priority 2: Achieve R1 Research University Status

Faculty and students will actively engage in scholarly work at local, state, national, and international levels that contributes to Hampton University’s R1 research aspirations and innovation goals.

Objectives:

1. Faculty will publish and/or present research that advances knowledge in communication sciences and disorders
2. Faculty will engage in interdisciplinary clinical practice and teaching that supports Hampton’s innovation priorities
3. Faculty will obtain external funding to support research, teaching, clinical activities, and student scholarship, contributing to Hampton’s financial sustainability goals
4. Students will engage in research experiences that prepare them for leadership in evidence-based practice

Action Steps:

• Faculty will produce publications and presentations that enhance Hampton’s research profile
• Faculty will earn course evaluation scores demonstrating teaching excellence
• Faculty will submit competitive funding proposals annually
• Develop interdisciplinary research collaborations supporting Hampton’s innovation goals
• Engage in research that addresses health disparities and serves diverse communities

Outcome Measures:

• Number of publications and presentations enhancing Hampton’s research profile
• Number of faculty with excellent teaching evaluations supporting student success
• Amount of external funding secured contributing to Hampton’s financial goals
• Number of funded projects supporting student research experiences
• Number of interdisciplinary collaborations advancing Hampton’s innovation priorities

Recent Achievements:

• All faculty received course evaluation scores of 3 or higher
• Three of six faculty produced publications and/or presentations during 2024-2025
• Major grants totaling over $2 million secured:
  • Title III funding supporting student success initiatives
  • OSEP funding: $250,000 (Training a Diverse Group of Speech-Language Pathology Scholars)
  • Kean Foundation: $500,000 (Hampton LEAD project)
  • NIH NIDCD R25: $1.25 million over 5 years (Mentoring Networks to Enhance Diversity)

GOAL 3: INFRASTRUCTURE AND OPERATIONS EXCELLENCE

Supporting Hampton Priority 3: Improve Operations and Enhance Infrastructure

The Department will enhance its physical and technological infrastructure to support the delivery of the #1 student experience in America while maintaining operational excellence.

Objectives:

1. Maintain state-of-the-art clinical facilities that support innovative service delivery
2. Integrate advanced technologies into academic and clinical training programs
3. Develop sustainable operational procedures that support student success
4. Create learning environments that inspire creativity and professional development

Action Steps:

• Upgrade clinical facilities and equipment to meet contemporary practice standards
• Integrate telepractice and innovative technologies into clinical training
• Implement efficient operational procedures supporting student and faculty success
• Create collaborative learning spaces that foster innovation and creativity

Outcome Measures:

• Clinical facility utilization rates and client satisfaction scores
• Technology integration in academic and clinical programs
• Operational efficiency metrics supporting student success
• Faculty and student satisfaction with learning environments

Recent Achievements:

• Successfully integrated telepractice and in-person services during clinical training
• Maintained HUSLHC serving 88 clients across the lifespan
• Implemented TYPHON electronic tracking system for clinical documentation
• Established partnerships with six community agencies for clinical placements

GOAL 4: FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY AND GROWTH

Supporting Hampton Priority 4: Increase Financial Sustainability

The Department will diversify revenue sources and strengthen institutional relationships to support program growth and excellence while contributing to Hampton’s $1 billion endowment goal.

Objectives:

1. Secure external funding for research, student support, and program development
2. Develop partnerships with corporations, foundations, and healthcare organizations
3. Enhance alumni engagement and philanthropic support
4. Create sustainable funding models for program expansion

Action Steps:

• Pursue federal, state, and private foundation funding opportunities
• Develop corporate partnerships for student internships and employment
• Engage alumni in mentoring, funding, and program development activities
• Create endowment funds supporting student scholarships and faculty development

Outcome Measures:

• Amount of external funding secured annually
• Number of corporate and foundation partnerships developed
• Alumni engagement rates and philanthropic contributions
• Endowment fund growth supporting program sustainability

Recent Achievements:

• Secured major external grants totaling over $2 million
• Received philanthropic support including $20,000 from Michael Kidd-Gilchrest and $20,000 from GN ReSound
• Established partnerships with healthcare organizations and school systems
• Increased community engagement through clinical service provision

GOAL 5: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND GLOBAL IMPACT

Supporting Hampton Priority 5: Enhance Stakeholder Engagement

Faculty and students will actively engage the community through educational and clinical service programs that demonstrate Hampton’s commitment to service and global leadership.

Objectives:

1. Recruit and retain clients for the HUSLHC from diverse populations reflecting Hampton’s service mission
2. Develop and sustain community partnerships that support clinical, research, and educational activities
3. Offer continuing education programs that promote lifelong learning and professional development
4. Provide international service-learning opportunities that prepare students for global leadership

Action Steps:

• Clinical faculty will participate in community outreach activities advancing Hampton’s service mission
• Clinical faculty and students will conduct prevention workshops supporting community health
• Expand clinical partnerships supporting diverse training experiences
• Organize seminars and continuing education programs for stakeholders
• Develop international programs supporting global leadership development

Outcome Measures:

• Number of community partnerships supporting clinical and research activities
• Number of clients served in diverse community settings
• Number of continuing education programs offered annually
• Number of students participating in international experiences
• Community impact metrics demonstrating service excellence

Recent Achievements:

• Established partnerships with six agencies providing diverse clinical experiences
• Served 88 clients in HUSLHC and 54 children at Mary Peak Pre-K Center
• Seven graduate students placed in external clinical facilities across the region
• Implemented successful study abroad program to Turks and Caicos
• Hosted career fair with over 15 healthcare organizations and school districts

GOAL 6: DIVERSITY, INCLUSION, AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Supporting Hampton’s Commitment to Diversity and Global Leadership

The Department will enhance diversity, inclusion, and collaboration while preparing students for positions of global leadership in healthcare and education.

Objectives:

1. Provide opportunities to increase faculty and students’ participation in activities aimed at improving cultural responsiveness and global leadership
2. Recruit and retain students from diverse backgrounds reflecting Hampton’s commitment to diversity
3. Invite scholars and master clinicians from diverse backgrounds to interact with students and faculty
4. Address diversity, inclusion, and global leadership throughout the curriculum
5. Provide international service-learning opportunities preparing students for global impact

Action Steps:

• Host DEI seminars and global leadership development programs annually
• Require diversity and global competency training for faculty and students
• Host recruitment activities targeting diverse student populations nationally and internationally
• Continue participation in CSDCAS to provide nationwide program access
• Infuse global perspectives and cultural competency throughout curriculum
• Expand international partnerships for study abroad and clinical experiences

Outcome Measures:

• Diversity training impact scores and global competency assessments
• Representation of diverse groups in the Department’s student population
• Percentage of students from underrepresented groups completing the program
• Number of international scholars and master clinicians interacting with students
• Number of curriculum activities addressing diversity, inclusion, and global leadership
• Number of students participating in international experiences

Recent Achievements:

• Student cohorts include diverse representation from multiple backgrounds and countries
• Each course addresses diversity, inclusion, and global perspectives
• Hosted career fair with diverse healthcare organizations
• Implemented study abroad program with cultural immersion components
• Special consultants included diverse scholars and practitioners
• Students achieved recognition at national and international levels

RECENT MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Contributing to Hampton’s Strategic Priorities

Academic Excellence Supporting Hampton’s #1 Student Experience Goal

• Ranked in top 50% of SLP graduate programs by US News and World Reports (140 out of 316 programs)
• Hampton NSSLHA chapter received Gold Honors for fourth consecutive year
• 100% placement of all graduates from Master’s and Bachelor’s programs
• 96% program completion rate and 96% PRAXIS pass rate over three-year period

Research Excellence Supporting Hampton’s R1 Aspirations

• NIH NIDCD R25 “Mentoring Networks to Enhance Diversity” ($1.25 million over 5 years)
• OSEP Training Grant supporting diverse scholars ($250,000)
• Hampton LEAD project funded by Kean Foundation ($500,000 over 2 years)

• . 

• Multiple faculty publications and presentations at national conferences

Faculty and Student Recognition Enhancing Hampton’s Profile

• Dr. Dorian Lee-Wilkerson received Martha Mullins-Callender Award from Communication Disorders Foundation of Virginia
• Dr. Jessica Sullivan recipient of 2025 Council of Academic Programs in CSD Excellence in Diversity Award
• Dr. Jessica Sullivan awarded 2025 Honors of NSSLHA from National Student Speech and Hearing Language Association
• Graduate student Nia Phillips awarded $1,000 from Lingraphica

• Graduate student Olamide Olajubutu won first place in the Student Research Poster Session at the SHAV 2025 conference

• Graduate student Bailee Poore awarded the David H. Narburgh Scholarship in the amount of $4,000
• Multiple student presentations at professional conferences

Community Engagement and Global Impact Supporting Hampton’s Service Mission

• Successful implementation of study abroad program to Turks and Caicos
• Partnerships with six community agencies providing diverse clinical experiences
• 132 clients served across lifespan through various clinical programs
• Career fair hosted with over 15 healthcare organizations
• International program development expanding global reach

Financial Sustainability Supporting Hampton’s Endowment Goals

• Michael Kidd-Gilchrist donated second $10,000 contribution for early intervention work
• GN ReSound committed additional $20,000 for audiology student scholarships
• Major grants secured totaling over $2 million
• Increased external partnerships providing financial support

ALIGNMENT WITH HAMPTON UNIVERSITY’S STRATEGIC INITIATIVES

Supporting R1 Research University Aspirations

Our Department contributes to Hampton’s R1 goals through:

• Major federal research grants (NIH, OSEP, Title III)
• Faculty research productivity and scholarly publications
• Student research experiences and presentations
• Interdisciplinary collaborations across campus and with external partners

Contributing to the $1 Billion Endowment Goal

Our financial sustainability efforts include:

• Major external grant funding secured
• Corporate partnerships and philanthropic support
• Alumni engagement and development activities
• Sustainable program growth models

Delivering the #1 Student Experience in America

Our student-centered approach includes:

• Top-tier program rankings and outcomes
• 100% graduate employment rates
• Diverse clinical and research experiences
• International and community engagement opportunities
• Comprehensive student support services

Supporting Hampton’s Growth to 11,000 Students

Our enrollment strategies include:

• National and international recruitment efforts
• Diverse and inclusive admission practices
• Online and distance education capabilities
• Transfer credit and pathway programs

Advancing Hampton’s Innovation and Technology Goals

Our innovation initiatives include:

• Integration of telepractice and digital technologies
• Artificial intelligence applications in research and clinical practice
• Interdisciplinary collaborations with STEM programs
• Technology-enhanced learning environments

ONGOING INITIATIVES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Research and Innovation Excellence

• Continued development of NIH-funded diversity enhancement programs
• Expansion of interdisciplinary research collaborations
• Integration of innovative technologies in clinical practice and research
• Development of new research areas supporting Hampton’s strategic priorities

Academic Program Enhancement

• Preparation for ASHA re-accreditation in 2025-2026
• Curriculum updates incorporating global perspectives and emerging technologies
• Enhanced clinical training experiences through community and international partnerships
• Faculty development supporting teaching and research excellence

Community and Global Engagement

• Expansion of international programs and partnerships
• Increased community service and health disparity reduction initiatives
• Professional development and continuing education programs
• Alumni engagement and mentorship programs

Infrastructure and Resource Development

• Clinical facility upgrades supporting innovative service delivery
• Technology integration enhancing student learning experiences
• Sustainable funding model development
• Strategic partnerships supporting program growth

CONCLUSION

The Hampton University Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders strategic plan directly supports and advances the University’s “Elevating Hampton Excellence” initiative and its mission to deliver the “#1 Student Experience in America.” Through our commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, community service, and global leadership development, our Department contributes significantly to Hampton’s aspirations for R1 research university status, financial sustainability, and national recognition.

Our 70-year legacy of excellence, combined with current achievements in student outcomes, faculty recognition, research funding, and community partnerships, positions us as a vital component of Hampton University’s strategic vision. As we continue to prepare diverse, culturally competent speech-language pathologists and audiologists for positions of global leadership and lives of service, we remain committed to upholding THE Standard of Excellence that defines the Hampton experience.

The Department’s strategic initiatives directly support Hampton University’s six strategic priorities while maintaining our specialized focus on communication sciences and disorders education, research, and service. Through this alignment, we ensure that our graduates are prepared not only as exceptional clinicians and researchers but as global leaders who will transform lives, uplift communities, and elevate the collective potential of those they serve throughout their careers.

Our continued success in meeting these strategic objectives will contribute to Hampton University’s goal of national and international recognition as a premier institution of higher education, ensuring that the Hampton family continues to “send through centuries ringing” graduates who embody the great spirit of service and excellence that has defined our institution since 1868.