Press Release:
Jonette Owen, AuD ‘03, MHA, FNAP, CH-AP, associate professor and associate program director for Clinical Education in Osborne Audiology at Drexel University’s Elkins Park Campus, has been named the recipient of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology 2026 Joel Wernick Award, recognizing her outstanding educational contributions to audiology and hearing science.
In her own words, Dr. Owen described what the award means to her:
“I am deeply honored to have been recognized at the Academy of Doctors of Audiology national conference as the 2026 recipient of the Joel Wernick Award. Presented in recognition of an outstanding educational contribution to the profession of audiology or hearing science, this award holds particular meaning for me because education, mentorship, and preparing future audiologists have been at the heart of my professional career.
The nomination and selection came as a complete surprise, making the recognition even more meaningful. Being acknowledged by colleagues and peers for work I have found personally and professionally rewarding throughout my career is both humbling and affirming.
The occasion was especially memorable because four of our current third-year (Doctor of Audiology) students were present, along with several former students from Salus University (Osborne Audiology) and Nova Southeastern University who attended the conference. Sharing this moment with current and former students served as a powerful reminder of why I have remained so committed to audiology education. Ultimately, the most meaningful measure of an educator’s impact is found in the accomplishments of the students whose lives and careers we have had the privilege to influence.
The impact of education extends far beyond the classroom or clinical facility. It includes mentoring students as they develop their professional identities, guiding and serving on committees that advance our programs and profession, creating opportunities for student involvement, and participating in events that raise awareness of audiology. It also means leading by example and demonstrating that being a professional includes giving back to the profession and creating opportunities for those who will follow us.
Amid the demands and “craziness” of our daily work, it’s easy to move from one responsibility to the next without taking time to recognize what we’ve accomplished along the way. A career spanning decades offers many milestones and moments worth celebrating.
For me, however, some of the most memorable have come when students and former students share their own personal and professional achievements. Watching them become clinicians, educators, leaders, mentors, and advocates for audiology brings an extraordinary sense of pride.
Receiving the Joel Wernick Award has allowed me to reflect on those collective experiences and the far-reaching influence that education can have. While this award recognizes an individual contribution, I see it equally as a celebration of the students, colleagues, mentors, and professional community who have been part of my journey. Knowing I may have played even a small role in my students’ success and the future of the profession is one of the greatest rewards of my career. To have that commitment recognized nationally by my peers makes the 2026 Joel Wernick Award an honor I will treasure.”
Dr. Joel Wernick was an active supporter of the Academy from its inception in 1977, until his death in 1988 at the age of 48. He was a prominent scientist, teacher, author, and industry executive who exemplified service through his commitment to dispenser education and his willingness to share his own knowledge for the benefit of his peers and the profession. A beloved figure within the audiology profession, he was a shining example of excellence that combined rich personal and professional interests and good humor.
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Photo: Drexel University