USSAAC AAC Legends

USSAAC Leaders & Legends: Lew Golinker

Today we honor, Lew Golinker! As an attorney and advocate, Lew Golinker has been instrumental in advocating for funding of speech-generating devices for people who use AAC in the United States. He was a key figure in the development of the funding mechanism for speech-generating devices through Medicare and Medicaid opening access to thousands of people who were and are in need of equipment. At the same time, Lew is a generous person, happy to advocate for anyone who's experienced an insurance denial for a speech-generating device. We can't overstate our gratitude to Lew for helping our community. Read more to learn about Lew's experiences as an attorney advocating for decades for people who use AAC.

USSAAC Leaders & Legends: Gregg Vanderheiden

Today, we honor Gregg Vanderheiden. As a graduate student, Gregg invented a speech-generating device. He played an important role in both the definition of the field of AAC and the formation of ISAAC. Gregg founded the TRACE center where he directed projects that were instrumental in accessibility features for the past 50 years.

USSAAC Leaders & Legends: David Yoder

Today, we honor legend David Yoder. David worked in what would be considered AAC (before it was called AAC) starting in the 1950s! He mentored pioneers in AAC including David Beukelman & Greg Vanderheiden. He continues to be a strong advocate for AAC, presuming potential in all learners and communicators, and equitable literacy instruction for all. We were lucky to have a conversation with this legend and hear of his experiences in AAC.