Maria Bane

Maria Bane, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, serves as Associate Professor at Eastern Kentucky University with dual expertise in clinical practice and academic research. She holds leadership positions including Vice President of Higher Education for the Kentucky Speech-Language-Hearing Association and EKU Faculty Senator, while maintaining active certification through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Her educational foundation includes:

• BA in International Studies from the University of Kentucky
• MS in Communication Sciences & Disorders from the University of Kentucky
• PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences from the University of Kentucky

Dr. Bane's research program rigorously investigates voice disorder interventions through mixed-methods approaches, focusing on identifying active ingredients in behavioral therapies. Her work bridges evidence-based practice with clinical education, examining parameters like vocal function exercise dosage, semi-occlusion techniques, and phonation time goals to optimize treatment efficacy for both disordered and normal voice populations. This research directly informs contemporary speech-language pathology training standards.

Analysis of her 2019-2025 publications reveals a consistent trajectory of methodologically sophisticated studies published in high-impact journals like the Journal of Voice, with increasing emphasis on clinical parameter optimization and evidence translation. Her work demonstrates sustained contribution to voice rehabilitation science through randomized controlled trials and systematic efficacy analyses.

Her professional recognition includes:

• Faculty Excellence in Research Award (Eastern Kentucky University)
• ASHA Award for Continuing Education
• Faculty Teaching Award (Eastern Kentucky University)

As an engaged academic citizen, Dr. Bane contributes to institutional governance as Faculty Senator while driving pedagogical innovation as EKU Faculty Innovator. Her research program maintains active publication output with multiple in-press and recent publications, indicating robust ongoing investigation. Through ASHA Special Interest Group 3 and state association leadership, she shapes professional standards for voice pathology practice and education.

Though no formal laboratory is specified, Dr. Bane directs a productive clinical research program examining voice therapy parameters, providing students with opportunities to participate in evidence-based rehabilitation science that directly impacts clinical practice protocols.