Chapter leaders from across the country gathered on for National NSSLHA’s recent Chapter Leadership Summit—a virtual event designed to connect leaders, share strategies, and kick off the 2025–2026 school year. You can watch the full event below:
Watch the full recording below:
Here are the key takeaways:
1. Chapters = Community Impact
National NSSLHA chapters bring students together through service, advocacy, and programming. Last year, a record-breaking 155 chapters earned Chapter Honors, and leaders were reminded that every chapter—big or small—can succeed by aligning activities with the program’s values.
2. Resources at Your Fingertips
The Chapter Toolkit and Membership page on NSSLHA.org were highlighted as must-use resources. From flyers and calendars to scholarship details and membership benefits, these tools can help chapters recruit members and plan successful events.
3. Affiliation Matters
Every time new officers take over, chapters must complete the Chapter Affiliation Form to stay connected with National NSSLHA. This ensures leaders get important updates and support throughout the year.
4. Learn From Peers
Breakout sessions gave leaders the chance to swap ideas for growing chapters, engaging in advocacy, and excelling in Chapter Honors. Student State Officers (SSOs) are also available year-round to provide state and regional support.
5. Leadership = Career Readiness
A panel of professionals emphasized how student leadership translates directly into career skills—teamwork, organization, advocacy, and confidence. They encouraged students to highlight chapter leadership on resumes and in interviews as valuable experience.
6. What’s Next for Students
Mark your calendars!
- Undergraduate Scholarship application opens September 1.
- Fall Student Advocacy Day takes place October 23.
- Students will also have the chance to connect at the 2025 ASHA Convention in Washington, D.C.
The Summit ended with a reminder that chapter leaders are at the heart of NSSLHA’s mission: empowering students in communication sciences and disorders.
Check out more resources and ideas for chapter leaders:
Membership and Recruitment:
- Membership Recruitment and Retention (nsslha.org)
- Event Idea Bank (nsslha.org)
- NSSLHA Roundup: Member Recruitment (blog.nsslha.org)
Chapter Honors
- Chapter Honors
- Chapter Honors Eligibility and Recognition
- NSSLHA Members – ASHA Community
- Community Outreach
- Legislative Advocacy