Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders: STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

NAFDA
is the acronym for the National Association of Future Doctors of Audiology

NAFDA is a nationally recognized student organization incorporated in Washington, DC. The membership of this organization is comprised of four-year Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) students, distance learning Au.D. students, graduates with an Au.D. degree (Alumni members), students enrolled in a research Ph.D. program and appointed Advisory Board members.
NAFDA was founded in October 1998 by Delbert F. Ault, 2002 Au.D. graduate of the University of Louisville School of Medicine. After forming a NAFDA Chapter at the University of Louisville with Au.D. colleagues, Hayley Gardner, Jean Hall, Melanie Jones, Casey Raasch and Jennifer Sowards, Ault decided to form other NAFDA Chapters at all Doctor of Audiology programs.

Bylaws were established, a NAFDA logo was designed and approved, and ten committees were organized. Au.D. students from all programs were invited to join NAFDA as National and Chapter Officers. Currently NAFDA is run entirely by 32 volunteer students from different Au.D. programs.

Mission Statement
The National Association of Future Doctors of Audiology (NAFDA) is a professional student organization dedicated to the advancement of education and technological training in the profession of Audiology with emphasis in enhanced patient care. We will promote the improved education standards of Audiologists that are prescribed by those who had the vision to develop the Doctor of Audiology Degree in order to meet the professional challenges of the future. We support the efforts of those before us, who have endured the pressures of change, and, in triumphant transition, moved Audiology to a doctoring profession.

History
NAFDA was founded in October 1998 by Delbert F. Ault, 2002 Au.D. graduate of the University of Louisville School of Medicine. After forming a NAFDA Chapter at the University of Louisville with Au.D. colleagues. Ault decided to form other NAFDA Chapters at all Doctor of Audiology programs.

Eligibility
A full time graduate student enrolled in the Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

OUHSC Chapter: Spring 2007 Bylaws

NAFDA website