Professor & Program Director
Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (M.S. SLP)

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Works remotely

• Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Wichita State University, 2003
• M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology, University of Central Missouri, 1997
• B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Central Missouri, 1995

• Studied abroad at the University of Helsinki, Dept. of Logopedics

I have worked in a variety of clinical and academic settings including universities, infant development centers, assistive technology centers, public schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities. I currently serve as Program Director and Professor of the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program at St. Bonaventure University. Previously, I served as Department Chair and Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri. I also maintain a small private practice in which I support the needs of individuals with language and literacy difficulties. 

Specialty Areas:
• Augmentative and alternative communication
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Literacy development
• Phonological disorders

Licensure and Certifications:
• Missouri Licensure in Speech-Language Pathology
• Certificate of Clinical Competence, American Speech-Language Hearing Association

National Service:
• Site visitor for the Council on Academic Accreditation

Selected Publications and Presentations:

1. Hart, P., Koch, C., & Jones, S. (2024). Strategic curriculum mapping to improve student outcomes. [Invited conference presentation]. American Speech-Language Hearing Association.
2. Hart, P. (2024). Supporting literacy development of children with complex needs. [Invited conference presentation]. Alabama Speech-Language Hearing Association.
3. Hart, P., & Jones, S. (2023). School-age child with augmentative and alternative communication needs. In E. Cohen & S. Chabon (Eds.), Communication Sciences and Disorders Casebook (2nd ed.). NJ: SLACK.
4. Hart, P., Koch, C., & Jardes, A. (2020). Essential functions in CSD: Academic program considerations for students. [Invited web presentation]. American Speech-Language Hearing Association SIG 10.
5. Hart, P. (2019). Improving program assessment in CSD. [Invited session sponsored by SIG 10, Issues in Higher Education]. Annual Convention of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, Orlando, FL.
6. Hart, P., & Scherz, J. (2018). Effective teaming in AAC: A qualitative case study. Journal of the Missouri Speech-Language Hearing Association.
7. Hart, P., Koch, C., & Thompson, C. (2018). Interprofessional care of high-risk infants. In Pediatric Therapy: An Interprofessional Framework for Practice (pp. 85–101). Thorofare, NJ: SLACK.
8. Hart, P. (2018). Pediatric professional role play: A case for assistive technology. In Pediatric Therapy: An Interprofessional Framework for Practice (pp. 183–189). Thorofare, NJ: SLACK.

I believe that education is most effective when learners are actively engaged in the process. I strive to create an inclusive, student-centered environment that supports students to achieve their full potential. In my courses, I emphasize the integration of theory and research with clinical practice by highlighting the connections between foundational knowledge and real-world applications. I am dedicated to helping students become compassionate, confident professionals with the skills to succeed in their future careers. 

• Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies for individuals with complex communication needs
• Strategies to support language and literacy development for individuals who use AAC
• Exploration of new technologies that support student learning in distance education programs

• Foster family for several animal rescue groups
• Advocacy for individuals with disabilities
Additional Biographical Information:
I live in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, with my husband and two children. We began fostering special needs puppies and kittens during COVID-19 and continue to support several animal rescue groups. We recently adopted a bulldog named Rocky, who has a condition that impacts his mobility. Despite this, his resilience and enthusiasm inspire us daily. Rocky even has his own social media page, RockyWobbles, to share his adventures!

• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
• PrAACtical AAC
• International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ISAAC)