Center for Communication Disorders receives special designation

By Jillian Smith | Jun 22, 2026

MURRAY, Ky. — Murray State University's Center for Communication Disorders has been designated as Kentucky's official SPEAK OUT! Therapy & Research Center by Parkinson Voice Project, positioning the University as a regional leader in speech therapy services, research and clinical education for individuals living with Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's Plus syndromes.

The designation is accompanied by a $50,000 grant over the next five years to support the expansion of telehealth and in-person services through the Murray State University Speech and Hearing Clinic, while advancing research and student learning opportunities.

Dr. Nikki Gaylord, associate professor in the Center for Communication Disorders, said the designation strengthens Murray State's ability to deliver specialized speech therapy services at no cost to the individual, expand research opportunities and increase access to care for individuals with Parkinson's disease across the region.

Parkinson's disease and related neurological disorders often affect a person's ability to communicate and swallow safely. As symptoms progress, individuals may experience reduced vocal loudness, slurred speech, impaired facial expression and swallowing difficulties that can significantly impact their quality of life and independence.

Megan Smetana, undergraduate coordinator in the Center for Communication Disorders, said the initiative will help connect more patients with evidence-based treatment while addressing healthcare access gaps that often exist in rural communities.

"Expanding access to speech therapy in rural or underserved communities throughout Kentucky allows individuals with Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's Plus syndromes to receive evidence-based interventions earlier and more consistently," Smetana said. "Ultimately, this improves functional communication, enhances quality of life, reduces caregiver burden and supports safer participation in daily activities."

The grant will support efforts already underway within the Center for Communication Disorders to increase access to specialized care. Through teletherapy services, patients who face transportation challenges, mobility limitations or geographic barriers will be able to receive evidence-based treatment directly from their homes.

The initiative will also enhance research opportunities for faculty and students. Research efforts will focus on evaluating treatment outcomes and exploring evidence-based interventions related to communication and swallowing disorders associated with Parkinson's disease. Students will participate in faculty-mentored projects involving data collection, literature reviews and professional presentations.

Gaylord noted that universities play a critical role in addressing healthcare gaps through education, research and community engagement.

"Programs like this improve free, accessible care for underserved populations while also preparing future speech-language pathologists to meet growing healthcare needs across the state," Gaylord said.

University leaders anticipate the initiative will have a lasting impact on Parkinson's care throughout the region by increasing awareness, encouraging earlier intervention and expanding access to specialized services. The program is also expected to strengthen the workforce of speech-language pathologists trained in neurological disorders and to foster new research collaborations and community partnerships.

Through the SPEAK OUT! Therapy & Research Center designation, Murray State University continues to advance its mission of serving the region through education, clinical care and research while improving the lives of individuals and families affected by Parkinson's disease.

If you are interested in free therapy services beginning in September 2026 for you or your loved one with Parkinson’s disease, please contact Smetana at msmetana@murraystate.edu or 270-809-6840 or Gaylord at jgaylord1@murraystate.edu or 270-809-5622.