By Harlan Cato, BC-HIS
IHS President
Sometimes in life you’re lucky enough to know an individual who stands out in stature as well as personality. With this column, I have the privilege and opportunity to highlight one of the many deserving IHS members with a history of providing exemplary service throughout the hearing healthcare profession.
Scott Austin, BC-HIS, became a member of IHS over 15 years ago. In 1996, he began his service on the IHS Board of Governors as representative of the Pacific Coast Territory. Over the next eight years he held several positions including secretary, president-elect, president and governor-at-large. As president Scott guided IHS through the final round of FDA battles over the Hearing Aid Rule.
His personality, warm demeanor and effective leadership skills set the tone
for many meetings, both compelling and productive. Oftentimes Scott would
compare his leadership style with that of an orchestra leader. He was the
master of making sure everyone knew their part—all the while keeping
everyone motivated and focused.
One of Scott’s most admirable qualities is the love he has for his family—his wife Carla, son Spenser and daughter Hanna. It’s rare to find someone who can selflessly dedicate hours of invaluable volunteer time with the full support of their family. They deserve a lot of credit so I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them for sacrificing their time with Scott so that he could better serve IHS.
Today Scott continues to be a strong influence in many facets of IHS committees and programs. The scope of his committee service includes the Long Range Strategic Planning Committee; Membership Development Committee; Nominating Committee; and Public Relations, Marketing and Website Development Committee.
Scott is also very active in his local chapter, the Oregon Hearing Society, where in the past he was elected to the offices of vice president and president. Additionally, Scott has served for the past six years on the Governors Advisory Council on Hearing Aids with the responsibility of advising the Health Licensing Agency in regard to hearing aids, testing, licensing, legislative issues and legal and ethical issues.
Those who know Scott will agree that these words chosen to fit on one page do not do him justice. So I will simply close with, thank you Scott Austin for your past years of service and those which you will surely give in the years to come. You are team player, a friend to our industry and our favorite orchestra leader.
