Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions highlights faculty, student and alumni voices during National Speech-Language-Hearing Month
Posted on May 5, 2026 by Daniel Curtis
In recognition of National Speech-Language-Hearing Month in May, the Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions is highlighting faculty, students and alumni whose experiences reflect the purpose, promise and impact of the speech-language pathology and audiology professions.
Faculty spotlight: Dr. Dahye Choi
Dr. Dahye Choi, associate professor and Speech and Hearing Sciences program coordinator
in the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, brings together teaching, clinical
service and research in ways that reflect the collaborative spirit of the Pat Capps
Covey College of Allied Health Professions.
Choi said she especially values the classroom experience, from teaching foundational undergraduate science courses to graduate coursework in stuttering, her area of specialization. She said one of the most rewarding parts of teaching is seeing the moment when a difficult concept finally clicks for a student.
“I love incorporating hands-on activities into my teaching, and there is nothing quite like the moment when a student’s face lights up as a challenging concept finally clicks,” Choi said.
She also said her work is especially meaningful because it allows her to serve both students in the classroom and individuals who stutter in the clinic and community. Through her teaching, research and service, Choi said she hopes students leave with compassion, resilience and a lasting commitment to lifelong learning.
Student spotlight: Phillip Endom
For Phillip Endom, the path to audiology is personal. Born with hearing loss in both
ears, he has worn hearing aids since he was 1½ years old, and he said that experience
was the most influential factor in drawing him to the field.
Endom said South felt like the right fit because the audiology program aligned with everything he was looking for in an Au.D. program. During a virtual open house, he saw faculty members who were genuinely passionate about both their students and the program, and he knew he wanted to be part of that environment.
“My experience in the Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions has been incredibly positive,” Endom said. “I truly enjoy coming in each day, knowing that I am actively working toward my future in audiology.”
He said one of the most meaningful parts of his experience has been the support of the faculty, whose open-door approach has made a lasting impression.
“What has made the greatest impression on me is the consistent support from the faculty,” Endom said. “Whether I need help with coursework, labs, or clinical concepts, the faculty are always approachable and willing to invest their time in my development.”
Alumni spotlight: Sarah McWilliams
Sarah McWilliams said she was first drawn to speech-language pathology in high school.
She had always wanted to work with older adults and in the medical field, and she
realized speech-language pathology brought those interests together.
She said South became the right fit when she met the department’s faculty and learned more about the clinical opportunities available to students. McWilliams also credited faculty mentors with helping foster her curiosity, strengthen her love of research and push her beyond her comfort zone.
“I know my love for research, teaching, and constantly wanting to learn more as a clinician is in part because of their mentoring,” McWilliams said.
McWilliams said her education at South continues to influence the way she serves others by grounding her in evidence-based, patient-centered practice while also encouraging the kind of questioning and curiosity that helps move the field forward. For current students, she offers simple advice: ask questions, try new things and make the most of the opportunity in front of you.