Cynthia Compton-Conley, Ph.D. has had a distinguished career as an educator and consumer advocate, specializing in assistive technology for people with hearing difficulties. An acclaimed expert in this specialty area, her counsel and advice are sought worldwide.

The core of Dr. Compton-Conley’s clinical and research work has concentrated on improving signal-to-noise ratio for hearing-impaired listeners. Her classic video and workbook “Doorways to Independence” earned her international recognition. Dr. Conley demonstrates a tireless commitment to hearing-impaired consumers. She has motivated and inspired students for decades, and she is highly esteemed by colleagues for her contributions in the lab, the classroom and the community.

Dr. Compton-Conley has given generously of her time and talents to governmental agencies, professional associations and consumer groups. Honors and awards include the Special Friends of Hearing Impaired People Award from the Hearing Loss Association of America; the Joel Wernick Award from the Academy of Doctors of Audiology; the Fletcher Award in Technical Applications from the Center for Hearing and Communication; and the Distinguished Achievement Award from the American Academy of Audiology.

Dr. Compton-Conley earned a bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Douglass College at Rutgers University, a master’s degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences from Vanderbilt University Medical School and a doctorate in Speech and Hearing Sciences from the City University of New York. Dr. Compton-Conley taught for many years at Gallaudet University, where she also served as director of the Assistive Devices Center.

Currently Dr. Compton-Conley is enjoying an encore career as Director of Hearing Wellness Technologies at Etymotic Research, an engineering-driven research, development and manufacturing company. In her own words, Cynthia states, “We believe in hearing wellness and the main reason I came to work for the company is because it is allowing me to speak my mind, something my husband says I do quite effectively.”