GREENVILLE, Pa.—During the 2025 Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology Commencement Exercises recently the Thiel College chapter of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association presented an assistive listening system to the college on behalf of the graduating class.
Emma Park ’24 M.S. ’25, president of the Thiel College chapter of the student speech language group spoke during the Commencement Exercises where the Williams Sound FM system was presented to Thiel College President Susan Traverso, Ph.D. The system enhances accessibility for individuals with hearing impairments by transmitting sound directly to a listener’s hearing aid or earbud without background noise interference. It is designed for use in classrooms, auditoriums and event spaces, and aligns with Thiel College’s commitment to creating inclusive and accessible environments for students and visitors.
“To purchase this gift, NSSLHA raised $1,000 through a bake sale during a football game last fall and a special popcorn fundraiser this past spring,” Park said during the ceremony. “This project reflects our commitment to advocacy, inclusion and the future of accessible communication at Thiel College.”
The new system was put to immediate use during the commencement ceremony, helping family members of a graduating student fully enjoy the event.
Members of NSSLHA said they hope the donation will improve accessibility across campus for both students and guests.
About Thiel College
Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.