ABOUT MEN IN CSD

Reversing MORE THAN a Decade of Decline

The 2024 Member and Affiliate Profile (ASHA, 2024) reveals that ASHA membership continues to grow at an annual rate of 2.5% per year. What has not changed for more than a decade is the declining representation of men in the professions. Representation of men in speech-language pathology declined from 3.8% in 2012 to 3.6% in 2022. Men in audiology declined from 17% in 2012 to 13.1% in 2022. The loss of men in the CSD professions over this decade coincides with an increase in the representation of men in other allied health professions. As a result of diverse talent choosing other professions, the CSD fields have seen loss of talent, insight, science, leadership, and diverse thinking that strengthens research, exposes biases, achieves gender-congruent care, and advances clinical practice.

The work of Men in CSD is designed to assist in supporting and recruiting men to our professions. 

To stop the decline of men entering the CSD professions requires that we have access to a comprehensive framework of actions to inform men about career opportunities in the CSD professions, to provide a strong network of support for those who successfully enter the professions, and to offer mentoring and networking to promote leadership roles for men in their work settings and in volunteer leadership roles.

OUR PURPOSE

Fostering Collective Impact for Men in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Men in CSD, ASHA’s Men's Constituency Caucus, is dedicated to providing a robust framework where male-identifying speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and communication sciences and disorders professionals come together. Our purpose is to collectively discuss, influence, and address the multifaceted factors affecting men within the fields of communication sciences and disorders. Through collaboration, advocacy, and shared experiences, we aim to shape a supportive and influential community for our professions.

OUR VISON

unified professions where representation matches that of those we serve

Our vision is to cultivate a culture of collaboration, where men in speech, language, and hearing professions come together to inspire innovation and foster continuous professional growth. We envision a community where ideas flourish and partnerships thrive. Through robust support networks, we build community, while enhancing provider representation for those they serve.

OUR MISSION

Empowering Excellence for Men in Speech Pathology, Audiology, and Communication Sciences

With unity as our cornerstone, we empower men, and those who identify as men, in our field to excel, represent, and support each other, enriching the fabric of our shared endeavors. Together, Men in CSD creates a vibrant community that champions the unique contributions of men, and those who identify as men, in our field, shaping a future where every voice is heard and understood.

Our Strategic Plan

OUR STRATEGIC PILLARS

  • Build a thriving professional network that fosters collaboration, mutual support, and shared growth, driving recruitment, retention, and advancement in the field.

  • Create an environment that fosters and celebrates the representation of men in CSD, empowering them to thrive and contribute to an inclusive profession.

  • Develop a dynamic mentorship program that connects experiences mentors with energizing professionals, fostering leadership, growth, and representation for men in CSD.

  • Foster a collaborative professional network within CSD that promotes growth, supports advancement, and drives recruitment and retention through shared learning and resources.