1939

University of Iowa students form the Demosthenes Club, dedicated to studying and overcoming stuttering.

1946

The Speech Correction Research Foundation is officially established within the American Speech Correction Association. First research grant awarded to William Love ($75).

1950s

1950

Formal scholarship program begins with a $500 fund.

1956

Renamed the American Speech and Hearing Foundation, aligning with ASHA’s identity.

1959

Foundation officers and board roles are formally established.

1979

►
Becomes the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, expanding its mission to all communication sciences.
 
►
New Investigators Research Grants launched ($1,000 each).

1981-1985

Under Frank R. Kleffner’s leadership, launches seed grants, creates the Founders Club for donors, and forges corporate partnerships that bring visibility and financial strength.

1990s

1990

ASHFoundation disburses $41,000 in research grants, scholarships and clinical awards.

1994

ASHFoundation achieves independent fiduciary oversight while remaining closely linked with ASHA.

1999-2005

Dreams and Possibilities capital campaign raises nearly $2 million, strengthening financial sustainability.

2005-2013

  • 2005
    ASHFoundation awards a record $182,000 in research grants, scholarships, and clinical awards in a single year—evidence of its growing reach.
  • 2008
    Clinical Research Grant Program launches ($50K-$75K).
  • 2009
    The University Engagement Program (UEP) launched and included 14 universities.
  • 2010
    Funding accelerates innovative research in communication in Down syndrome, aphasia rehabilitation and recovery, and cochlear implant outcomes.
  • 2012
    NSSLHA Graduate Student Scholarship launches ($5,000).
  • 2013
    Spirit of Philanthropy Award created and awarded.

2014

ASHFoundation hosts the Implementation Science Summit, a transformative program about the science of integrating research into practice.

Year

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Renamed

Renamed

Becomes the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, expanding its mission to all communication sciences.

New Grant

New Grant

New Investigators Research Grants launched ($1,000 each).