07/21/2026
Last month, the University of Iowa Speech, Language, and Hearing Clinic proudly hosted its first-ever Aphasia Connection Event. The event brought together individuals living with aphasia to connect, share their experiences, and build community in a welcoming and supportive environment. As one attendee shared, "It was a great opportunity to meet others who have aphasia and have similar experiences."
We would like to thank our keynote speaker, Brad Ferrier, for sharing his journey of living with aphasia. His presentation was educational, insightful, and sparked meaningful conversation among participants. Brad has attended our MAGIC, ARC, and Mindful Readers support groups throughout the years.
The event was coordinated by SLP graduate student Maddie Sniadecki and Clinical Assistant Professor, Laura Schmitt, CCC-SLP, with the purpose of creating a space where individuals with aphasia could connect and feel empowered through shared experiences. This also marked the first community event hosted by our clinic in the new Health Sciences Academic Building! We are grateful for this new space and look forward to continuing to offer opportunities that foster education and connection.
