معرفی
Katya Hill is a Professor and Senior Director of the UPMC Augmentative Communication Program at the University of Pittsburgh's Department of Communication Science and Disorders. She specializes in neurological communication disorders, brain-computer interfaces, and healthcare policy, with a focus on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for individuals with severe disabilities. Her work bridges clinical practice, research, and education to improve communication access and quality of life for those with complex needs.
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Hearing Science, Edinboro University
- Master of Arts in Speech Language Pathology, Edinboro University
- Doctor of Philosophy in Rehabilitation Science and Technology, University of Pittsburgh
Research & Clinical Focus: Hill’s research explores AAC technologies, interprofessional collaboration in AAC device design, and brain-computer interface applications. She co-leads the ICAN Talk AAC camp to engage directly with AAC users and families. Her clinical practice emphasizes neurorehabilitation and communication access for underserved populations.
Awards:
- American Speech-Language Hearing Association Fellowship Award
- Clinical Achievement Award from ASHA Foundation
- Veterans Affairs Certificate of Appreciation for Meritorious Service
Professional Leadership: President of the American Board for Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialty Certification (AB-AAC) and Board Executive of the Augmentative Alternative Communication Institute. Holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech Language Pathology (CCC-SLP).
Labs/Programs: Directs UPMC’s Augmentative Communication Program, a multidisciplinary initiative advancing AAC research, clinical care, and advocacy.
