For nearly five decades, Harlan Cato, III, BC-HIS, has been a driving force in hearing healthcare. As a third‑generation professional, he has carried forward a family tradition of service, leadership, and innovation in the field. His national leadership includes serving as President of the International Hearing Society (IHS) from 2004–2006, after previously holding the roles of President‑Elect and Secretary. He also brought his expertise to the National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences (NBC-HIS), where he served as Vice President and Secretary.
At the state level, he contributed extensively to the North Carolina Society of Hearing Care Professionals, the North Carolina chapter of IHS, where he held multiple board positions including President, Treasurer, and Secretary.
Today, he leads Southeastern Hearing Centers, overseeing five offices across North Carolina and continuing to advance patient-centered hearing care and help individuals reconnect with the world through better hearing.