One Ball State Day 2021

                                                            Dr Richard Hoops

Dr Richard Hoops joined the faculty of Ball State University in 1956.  During his tenure of 39 years he served as chairperson for 35 years.  It was under his leadership that the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology was established.   Since Dr Hoops was dual certified in speech-language pathology and audiology he educated and mentored students in both professions across the state of Indiana.  Dr Hoops is remembered for his larger than life personality.  He saw the whole person before him, beyond just their roles as students, coworker or client.  He took an interest in and was curious about their lives in and out of the academic setting.  He was not only focused on expanding and improving the department at Ball State University,  but was also active in promoting and protecting the professions of speech-language pathology and audiology  within the state of Indiana. Dr Hoops was president of the Indiana Speech & Hearing Association for two terms.  He was instrumental in implementing professional development opportunities across the state of Indiana and was part of the founding members who established an annual state Speech Pathology and Audiology convention.

A fund has been established in memory Dr Richard Hoops (Fund #8324) and will be used to provide financial support for clinical programs within our department.  This fund will carry on Dr Hoops' strong commitment to helping both our students as well as clients seeking services in our on-campus clinics.