'A part of the bigger picture': Professor, audiologist receives prestigious award from national academy

A humble man, Bill Hodgetts is not one to talk about himself.

But now with a win of a prestigious award, there is something to be said about his accomplishments.

In October 2017, Hodgetts, associate professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine received the President's Award from the Canadian Academy of Audiology for his outstanding contributions its development-essentially, helping to reshape some key directions for the organization.

Recipients of this award are nominated by the president of the Academy and receive unanimous consent from the board of directors.

"It's really a great honour," says Hodgetts. "It reflects some of my contributions, but also the mentorship and guidance of many people who have presented me with the opportunities that lead me here. An award like this comes as a result of being fortunate to be surrounded with good people."

After a three-year position as president (president-elect, president, past-president), Hodgetts is still active in the Academy, sitting on the board of directors as an advisor.

"My role is really to help new members understand the context of their profession-of the Academy. I like taking new individuals and connecting them to other key individuals; to help them be a part of the bigger picture."

Interestingly enough, he's also in charge of awards.

"It's really important that we celebrate our members and their accomplishments, so I'm usually out there soliciting nominations for individuals who deserve to be recognized."

But while Hodgetts sees the accomplishments of others as something to be showcased, did he ever think he would be the one on the receiving end?