Ralph Shelton

Ralph Shelton, PhD (1929–2019), was a Professor of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences at the University of Arizona from 1970 to 1998. He was a triple alumnus of the University of Utah (BA, 1952; MS, 1956; PhD, 1959) and began his academic career at the University of Kansas Medical Center in 1959 before joining the University of Arizona.

His research focused on articulation, cleft palate, and craniofacial disorders, emphasizing evidence-based practice. He pioneered behavioral treatment studies for children with cleft lip and palate, funded by the National Institute for Dental Research. Shelton also served as Editor of the Journal of Speech and Hearing Research and the Cleft Palate Journal.

Recognition of his contributions included the 1996 Honors of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and 1998 Honors of the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association. His legacy includes mentoring generations of students and maintaining an active engagement with scientific literature post-retirement.