FAQs About the Special Interest Groups Bylaws Change
If the Bylaws change is approved, does that mean the SIG Program is going away?
Yes, if the bylaws change is approved, the SIG Program as we now know it, is going away. It will transition from a program that included benefits for an additional fee, to providing access to some of the benefits previously provided through the SIG Program to all ASHA members for no additional fee. This change reflects our commitment to making specialized knowledge and networking opportunities more accessible to our entire membership. The transition will allow more members to benefit from the valuable resources and connections that were previously available only to paying SIG affiliates.
How will ASHA members who have special interests (clinical, administrative) be able to engage with each other without the SIGs?
We are planning to offer online communities to support networking and knowledge generation/acquisition amongst ASHA members. These communities will be designed to facilitate meaningful connections between professionals with similar interests. ASHA seeks to maintain the collaborative spirit of the current SIGs while offering enhanced flexibility to evolve with changing member needs. The communities will continue to provide forums for discussion, resource sharing, and professional development opportunities tailored to specific practice areas.
Why is ASHA proposing making changes to the SIG Program now?
In 2024, the SIG Program Review Task Force conducted a comprehensive assessment of the program and formulated recommendations for changes in response to member feedback. The Task Force found that there were opportunities to increase accessibility to specialized knowledge and to create more flexible structures that could adapt to evolving member needs. Their review indicated that removing the operational specifics from the Bylaws would allow ASHA to implement improvements more effectively. These changes will help ensure that our special interest communities remain vibrant and valuable resources for all members in the years ahead. Read the SIG Task Force Report here [PDF].
I have never been a member of a SIG. How would this change impact me as an ASHA member?
In the future, all ASHA members will have access to some of the benefits previously reserved for paying SIG affiliates only. This includes access to specialized knowledge resources, networking opportunities with colleagues who share your professional interests, and the Perspectives publication. This change was recommended to increase the value of your ASHA membership, giving you access to additional professional development resources and specialized communities without requiring additional fees. You'll be able to connect with colleagues in your specific areas of interest and access content relevant to your practice area more easily.
I have been a long-time SIG affiliate. How would this change impact me?
You will continue to have opportunities to volunteer, network with other like-minded ASHA members, and receive the Perspectives journal. While the governance structure is changing, the core benefits you've valued will remain available. The transition will be designed to preserve the community connections you've established while potentially enhancing the ways you can engage with colleagues and access specialized content. Your experience and commitment as a long-time affiliate will be especially valuable during this transition period, as we'll be seeking input from engaged members like you to ensure the new communities meet the needs of both current SIG affiliates and the broader membership.
I have been a volunteer leader in the SIG Program. What opportunities will I have to provide leadership if these changes happen?
The SIG Program Review Task Force identified several volunteer opportunities in their recommendations. Serving on a Member Advisory Group, leading a topic strand in the proposed new networking platform, or leading a Journal Club or other professional development activity will be options in the future. Micro volunteering opportunities, which are smaller time commitments, were emphasized as desirable in the member survey responses. These new leadership structures will provide varied ways to contribute based on your interests, expertise, and availability, while maintaining the valuable member-led approach that has been a cornerstone of the SIG Program.
Will Perspectives still be published?
Yes, the plan is to offer Perspectives to all ASHA members in 2026. The ASHA Journals Board will make decisions about any future changes needed to continue publishing the type of content currently available in Perspectives. This will ensure that the valuable professional resources you've come to expect from this publication remain accessible while potentially reaching a wider audience.
What is the process for voting on the Bylaws change?
During the 30-day comment period, members provide feedback for the Board of Directors to consider when making their decision about the resolution. The Board votes on the resolution after reviewing all member feedback. This means your comments during this period are an important part of the Board's decision-making process.
