Lipscomb appoints Meagan Spencer as director of new undergraduate communication sciences and disorders program
Kim Chaudoin |
Lipscomb University has appointed Dr. Meagan Spencer as the founding director of its new undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders, designed to address the growing demand for professionals in speech-language pathology and related fields. Spencer will lead the development of the program, the only undergraduate program in Nashville, housed within Lipscomb’s College of Health Sciences.
Spencer, a seasoned speech-language pathologist, educator and advocate for rural healthcare access, comes to Lipscomb from Freed-Hardeman University, where she served as program coordinator and clinic director of the FHU Speech Clinic. She is also the current president of the Tennessee Association of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists (TAASLP). As a recognized leader in the field, she brings expertise in clinical education, rural health advocacy, and program development.
"I am honored to join Lipscomb University in launching this vital program," said Spencer. "Speech-language pathology is a field deeply rooted in service, giving individuals dignity, courage, and an improved quality of life. Lipscomb’s mission aligns perfectly with the heart of this profession, and I am excited to build a program that will equip students to serve their communities with excellence and compassion."
Spencer holds a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership from Abilene Christian University, as well as a Master of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Harding University. She began her career as a speech-language pathologist in Cheatham County Schools and has since worked extensively in rural healthcare, providing pro bono speech therapy services to underserved populations.
She said her passion for the field and its alignment with Lipscomb’s mission made this role an ideal next step in her career.
"I really believe that speech-language pathology is a vocational ministry," said Spencer. "In this field, we have the opportunity to serve individuals across all ages and stages of life — from newborns in the NICU to elderly patients in the final stages of dementia. This profession is about restoring dignity, improving quality of life and empowering individuals and their families. I am thrilled to build a program that instills these values in the next generation of speech-language pathologists."
Building a new program at Lipscomb
Lipscomb announced the new undergraduate program in February as part of its commitment to addressing critical workforce needs in healthcare. In addition to the undergraduate degree, the university plans to launch an online post-baccalaureate leveling certificate for second-degree students and, eventually, a master’s program, pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and Lipscomb's academic council.
The undergraduate curriculum will provide a strong foundation in pediatric, geriatric, neuro and educational speech-language pathology, as well as an introduction to audiology. A clinical track will allow students to gain the 100 clinical hours required for Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) licensure, enabling them to enter the workforce immediately or pursue advanced degrees.
For Spencer, creating a strong program culture is just as important as developing curriculum.
"I always say there are three pillars that we stand on — community, dignity and excellence," she explained. "This applies to how we treat our patients, how we interact in the classroom and clinic, and how we serve others. Establishing that culture will be one of my first priorities as we build this program."
Lynette Austin, dean of the College of Health Sciences, is confident that Spencer’s leadership will lay a strong foundation for the program’s success.
"Dr. Spencer is not only a top-tier expert in this field, but she also has a deep passion for mentorship and student success," said Austin. "She will be instrumental in preparing students to meet the rising demand for speech-language pathology services while upholding Lipscomb’s commitment to faith-based education and service."
With its location in the heart of Nashville, a city known as a healthcare hub, Lipscomb’s new program is well-positioned to become a leading training ground for future speech-language pathologists.
"Nashville is a healthcare hub, and there is a tremendous need for rehabilitative services in the region," Spencer said. "This program will not only help fill that need but will do so in a way that reflects Lipscomb’s mission of service and faith. I look forward to building a program that cultivates compassionate and skilled professionals who make a lasting impact."
For more information about Lipscomb University’s new undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders, contact Austinlynette.austin [at] lipscomb.edu ( here).