Call For Nominations For The 27th Annual Prentke Lecture

If you’re looking for something good in the world, consider the Prentke AAC Distinguished Lecture – a legacy tribute to an altruistic couple that also honors a person who reflects the joy of their life’s work. If you’re looking to do something good, nominate an individual who communicates with AAC for this prestigious award. Nominations are open now through September 30.

The 27th Annual Prentke Lecture 

The annual presentation celebrates the compassionate leadership of Ed Prentke, co-founder of the Prentke Romich Company (now known as PRC-Saltillo), and his wife Esther. Ed and Esther devoted their lives to developing technology that created possibilities for individuals with disabilities.

The previous 26 award recipients have shared inspirational words about the impact of AAC. In February, 2023 award recipient Ashley Mohesky, M.S., LPC Associate (supervised by Mark Rehm, LPC-S), photographed above, told of her experience learning how to use AAC and then navigating new spaces with her AAC system. Ashley had recently completed her master’s degree in counseling psychology with plans to practice as a licensed professional counselor. She is one of the first mental health counselors who is also an AAC communicator. We are proud of her achievements and desire to help others!

View lectures from recent years.

PRC-Saltillo is pleased to sponsor the 27th annual lecture. We eagerly look forward to the inspiring presentation taking place on Friday, January 26, 2024 during the Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) conference in Orlando. Please note, the recipient may choose to deliver their lecture in-person or virtually via Zoom.

Nominations open for the Prentke Lecture

Make your nominations between August 14 and September 30. Consider who you know that meets the following criteria:

• At least 18 years of age who uses AAC as a primary means of communication (nominee may use any type of AAC device)
• Has significant public speaking experience with a variety of audiences and venues
• Has the ability to engage in an interactive question-and-answer session with the audience
• Has the ability to present a professional quality presentation relevant to the field of AAC

Keep in mind that past nominees, but not previous award recipients, may be nominated. Parents may nominate their adult children. You may also choose to nominate yourself.

Prentke Lecture nomination form

Review the nomination form on the ATIA website which requests information about your nominee:

• Personal and professional achievements
• Public speaking experience
• Live, question and answer experience
• Three- to five-minute video answering two provided questions

The award recipient is chosen by the Prentke Lecture committee and will be notified of their selection by October 30, 2023.

Please join us in spreading the word about this unique opportunity to give the stage to someone that represents the best of the AAC community. For additional information about the nomination process, please click here or email marketing@atia.org.