Ruscello named 2020 awardee of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
Dennis Ruscello, Ph.D., a professor emeritus in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders and Adjunct Professor of Otolaryngology at West Virginia University received the Award of Honors from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
The Award of Honors is the highest award given by the ASHA, with four to six professionals chosen each year. Ruscello was recognized for his research, teaching, and service contributions and is the only faculty member to receive the award in the history of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, which has recently transitioned to the School of Medicine.
To be considered for the award, members must be nominated by three professionals who are familiar with their work.
“I was not aware of the nomination,” Ruscello said. “I was quite surprised and happy.”
He retired this past May after working at WVU for 43 years.
Ruscello taught classes, conducted research in the area of pediatric communication disorders, and served as a member of the West Virginia University Cleft Palate Team for 40 years.
During his time as a teacher, he taught approximately 1,500 undergraduate and 1,200 graduate students. He has also published over 100 research works, including research articles, book chapters, and books.
“My major interest area has always been children, so it is very gratifying to see positive change and parent excitement with that change. I have also tried to contribute to the professional knowledge base through my research,” Ruscello said.
Dr. Ruscello earned his undergraduate degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology from the California University of Pennsylvania and his master's degree in Speech Pathology from West Virginia University. He earned his Ph.D. in Speech/Language Pathology at the University of Arizona. He then worked as a speech-language pathologist and research associate before joining West Virginia University as a faculty member in 1977.
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association is an organization that aims to make effective communication accessible to all by empowering those in the field and continuing to advance science, set standards, foster excellence in professional practice, and advocate for members and those served by members. The association has 211,000 members and affiliates.
For more information on Communication Sciences and Disorders, visit medicine.hsc.wvu.edu/communications-sciences-and-disorders/.