Dr. Aura Kagan Makes History as First Speech-Language Pathologist Appointed a Member of the Order of Canada
By: Jessica Boafo
The Department of Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Toronto is proud to celebrate Dr. Aura Kagan, who has become the first speech-language pathologist to be appointed a Member of the Order of Canada. This prestigious recognition highlights Dr. Kagan’s trailblazing contributions to the field of speech-language pathology and her transformative work in aphasia care.
Together with a team of staff, volunteers and clients at the Aphasia Institute in Toronto, Dr. Kagan, former Executive Director and long-time advocate for individuals living with aphasia, has revolutionized approaches to communication for those affected by the condition. Through her innovative methods—referred to as “communication ramps”—Dr. Kagan has provided tools and strategies that restore dignity, enhance autonomy, and foster meaningful connections for people with aphasia. One of her groundbreaking contributions is the development of Supported Conversation for Adults with Aphasia (SCA™), an evidence-based approach to reducing language barriers, designed to empower individuals with aphasia, and recognized in the Canadian Stroke Best Practice Guidelines. SCA™ is now used globally by clinicians and trained volunteers, helping thousands of individuals with aphasia and their families each year.
Dr. Kagan’s academic contributions have been equally impressive, and she has received numerous awards for her contributions. She was named a Fellow of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association in 2003, received the Ontario MOHLTC Innovations Award in 2006, the Audrey Holland Award in 2017, and the UK Robin Tavistock Award in 2020.
“Members of the Order of Canada are builders of hope for a better future,” said Governor General Mary Simon in a statement. “Each in their own way, they broaden the realm of possibilities and inspire others to continue pushing its boundaries.”
The appointment of Dr. Kagan as a Member of the Order of Canada underscores the profound societal impact of speech-language pathologists and affirms the critical role of communication in fostering inclusion and accessibility. Her recognition shines a spotlight on the field, bringing increased awareness to the importance of speech-language pathology in improving lives.
This historic milestone is a moment of pride not only for the Speech-Language Pathology Department but also for the broader healthcare and academic communities. Dr. Kagan’s achievement serves as an inspiration to students, researchers, and practitioners, reinforcing the department’s commitment to advancing innovative, person-centered care.
To delve deeper into Dr. Aura Kagan’s groundbreaking contributions, her appointment to the Order of Canada, and what this prestigious honor means to her, tune in to her recent interview with Matt Galloway on CBC’s The Current.
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