Connecting Voices Across the Globe: Celebrating Speech-Language Pathologists in DoDEA

May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month - a time to recognize the importance of communication and to honor the professionals who make it possible for so many students to find their voice. Across the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools, Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) play a vital role in supporting student success, regardless of location, language, or need. Though separated by oceans and time zones, DoDEA SLPs have found a powerful way to stay connected and collaborate through a Microsoft TEAMS group that spans the globe.

This global community began in 2021, thanks to Mandy Longo, a veteran SLP working at Lakenheath Elementary in the Europe West district. With 25 years in the profession, Mandy has spent much of her career supporting children and families who are Deaf or hard of hearing, drawing on her training from Gallaudet University. After a childhood spent at Naval Air Station Sigonella—a time she recalls as the most special of her life—she dreamed of returning to DoDEA schools. That dream became reality in 2021, when she accepted a position with DoDEA.

While she loved working in Europe, Mandy quickly discovered that being the only SLP on a small base came with unique challenges. Seeking connection and support, she created a TEAMS group to bring together SLPs in Europe East, where she was at that time, —but the need quickly grew. She expanded the initiative into a “DoDEA Worldwide” SLP group, which now includes 205 members across all districts: Americas, Europe, and Pacific.

What began as a solution to professional isolation has become a lifeline—a virtual space where SLPs share resources, ask questions, support one another, and stay current with best practices. The group has not only improved collaboration but has had a direct positive impact on student outcomes around the world.

Deirdre Hendrix, an experienced SLP Assessor with over 30 years in the field, serves three schools—Bowley, Devers, and Albritton—in the Mid-Atlantic Americas district. She emphasizes the critical importance of her role:

“Speech-Language Pathologist assessors play a crucial role in education by identifying and addressing communication barriers that can impact a student's academic and social success.”
She credits the TEAMS group with offering essential support for the complex challenges of assessment and diagnosis across schools.

In the Pacific East district, Julie DeFazio serves students at Yokota West Elementary, Middle, and High Schools. From preschoolers to high school seniors, Julie addresses a wide range of speech and language needs.

“As SLPs, I feel like we are constantly learning and improving our clinical skills. This group serves as a valuable resource to ask questions and gain insights on how to best serve our students,” she explains.

First-year DoDEA SLP Jeannie Henriques serves students in all grades at Ansbach Elementary, Middle, and High Schools in the Europe East district. She reflects on the incredible support she’s received:

“Never before have I worked with such a supportive team that continuously elevates each other both professionally and personally,” Jeannie says. “Our students thrive because of the care and kindness found within DoDEA.”

On the other side of the globe, Amalia Badua supports the Andersen School Complex in Guam, part of the Pacific West district. Now in her 21st year in education, Amalia serves as both an assessor and a provider, supporting 15 students in preschool classrooms while also handling high assessment demands.

“The DoDEA SLPs group has been a helpful resource—not only for asking questions and exchanging ideas, but also for staying connected with others who understand the unique challenges we face.”

From Europe to the Pacific, and the Americas in between, DoDEA SLPs are united in their mission: to empower students through communication. What started as a small regional group has grown into a dynamic, worldwide network. The TEAMS group ensures that no SLP is ever truly alone, even if they’re the only one in their building or on their base.

In addition to National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, May 18 marks National Speech Pathologist Day—a special day to recognize the dedication, expertise, and heart that SLPs bring to their work every day. Whether assessing a child’s first words or helping a high school senior prepare for life beyond graduation, SLPs are vital to our students’ academic and personal growth.

This month, take a moment to recognize the SLP at your school. Celebrate the difference they make—not just in May, but every day—as they help students communicate, connect, and succeed.