Shari Koeper's positive attitude, commitment and caring spirit are well known within the hard of hearing community in Tennessee. Her long-time involvement in several organizations and agencies have allowed her to learn more about her own hearing loss and the technologies available to accommodate not only herself, but other individuals who experience hearing loss.
In 1998, Shari became involved with the local Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), continued on to become President of the Nashville Chapter and is currently the State Chapter Coordinator for Tennessee. With HLAA, she has taken part in conferences, award banquets and leadership forums and has organized a variety of activities. She continues to be a great advocate for hard of hearing individuals in the state.
Shari has also held positions with the Tennessee Relay Service and the Tennessee Devices Access Program. She was one of the strongest advocates responsible for bringing Captioned Telephone (CapTel®) to the state – a service that allows individuals who have difficulty hearing on the phone to listen and read captions of what's said to them on a CapTel phone. As a CapTel user herself, she is able to bring in her personal experience when communicating with others about this available resource.
In addition to the above, Shari volunteered her time to help in the recovery of the 2010 flood in Nashville which caused tremendous wreckage over a large stretch of the land. Undoubtedly a significant accomplishment that required dedication and cooperation by all involved.
Shari's involvement in advocacy efforts across the state and dedication to the hard of hearing community in Tennessee makes her an ideal candidate for Hamilton Relay's Better Hearing and Speech Month Recognition Award. We congratulate and are pleased to honor Shari for her achievements.
This leadership recognition has been brought to you by Hamilton Relay.
About Hamilton Relay
Hamilton Relay offers a variety of services including Telecommunications Relay Services, Captioned Telephone and Internet Relay services. Hamilton provides Telecommunications Relay and/or Captioned Telephone services to 18 states, the District of Columbia, the Island of Saipan and the Virgin Islands. More information is available at hamiltonrelay.com.