The Martha Mullins-Callender Award
In 1989, the Communication Disorders Foundation of Virginia established the Martha Mullins-Callender Award in Martha's memory. The Martha Mullins-Callender Award is presented to an individual currently working in the field of communication disorders who is an example of Martha's belief in the ability of an individual to overcome all obstacles to ensure that the services we deliver, the profession we represent, and the professional organization that serves us (our "products") flourish in the marketplace.
Martha received her master's degree in speech-language pathology from the University of Virginia and became a clinical supervisor at Old Dominion University later in her career. She served the Speech-Language-Hearing Association of Virginia tirelessly in leadership positions from 1980 through 1987 as Secretary, SHAV-A-GRAM Editor, President Elect and Conference Chair, President, and Past President.
She was elected President of the ASHA Council of State Association Presidents in 1986. In 1985, she served as chair of the SHAV committee that created the Communication Disorders Foundation of Virginia. She became the Foundation's first president in 1986 and served on the Board of Directors until 1988. In 1988, she was presented the honor of SHAV Fellow.
On both a personal and professional level, Martha exhibited a sense of graciousness and unassailable integrity, informed by a delightful and occasionally incendiary wit. Martha could tell the truth, no holds barred, and do it in a way that left one wanting more. Martha passed away in 1988.
Anyone may nominate a professional practicing in the field of communication disorders in Virginia by submitting a letter of nomination and securing AT LEAST TWO ADDITIONAL LETTERS of support for the nomination. The letters must illustrate the ways in which the nominee exemplifies leadership and ideals that Martha represented and which make the nominee a "champion" of the profession. The award traditionally is made in the form of a plaque and a personalized gift and is presented at the annual conference of the Speech-Language-Hearing Association of Virginia.
Letters of nomination (total of 3 required) can be submitted through this form or may be mailed to the address below. Written letters must contain the author's name, title, relationship to the nominee, address, and telephone number, and e-mail address. Nominations are due by December 31 of each year and should be submitted here or directed to:
Scott Rankins, CDF President
Communication Disorders Foundation of Virginia
P.O. Box 6342
Charlottesville, VA 22906-6342