Kristin Berndt

Kristin Berndt serves as Director for the Center for Communication Sciences & Disorders and Internship Coordinator at Minnesota State University, Mankato within the College of Allied Health and Nursing's Department of Speech, Hearing, and Rehabilitation Services. Holding an M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology and pursuing a Doctorate of Education (anticipated 2027), she teaches graduate clinical practicum courses while advancing evidence-based clinical education methodologies.

Her academic foundation includes:

• Doctorate of Education (anticipated 2027), Winona State University
• MS in Speech-Language Pathology (2013), University of Nebraska, Omaha
• BS in Communication Sciences & Disorders (2011), Minnesota State University Mankato

Berndt specializes in developing clinical training frameworks for speech-language pathology students, with particular emphasis on pediatric and adolescent populations. Her work integrates simulation technologies and real-world medical internships to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application, fostering clinician readiness through structured mentorship and evidence-based approaches to clinical delivery.

Her 2023-2025 presentation series reveals critical advancements in clinical education, demonstrating how strategic simulation modality selection enhances graduate training and how medical setting internships develop workplace competencies. These contributions establish new paradigms for preparing speech-language pathologists through technology-enhanced and context-rich learning environments.

As Internship Coordinator, Berndt directly mentors students during clinical placements across medical facilities, implementing collaborative frameworks with healthcare partners to ensure comprehensive exposure to diverse patient populations and interdisciplinary team dynamics. She designs internship structures that align with ASHA certification requirements while addressing emerging industry needs.

The Center for Communication Sciences & Disorders operates under her directorship as an integrated clinical training hub, providing community-based services while serving as a live educational environment where students gain hands-on experience with communication disorders across the lifespan.