VASTA

Interested in joining our mentorship program as a mentor? Application deadline has been extended to Monday, June 15th! To apply and learn more information, find the Mentorship Program under Member Resources on our website! 🗣️👯‍♀️

We are excited to announce our first keynote speakers for the 2026 VASTA Conference: Changemakers 40— Catherine Fitzmaurice and Saul Kotzubei! They will join us in conversation on Sunday, October 18. Keep an eye out as we roll out the keynote speakers over the next few weeks! 🗣️🌟

The weekend of April 17, 2026, VASTA members Sammi Grant and Phil Timberlake hosted the second annual Midwest Voice and Speech Gathering in Chicago! Following the event’s success in 2025, the 2026 event consisted of a group dinner, informal workshops and discussions, and a large focus on being in community together. A Member Enrichment Grant from VASTA provided refreshments for the event. Many thanks to The Theatre School at Depaul University for the use of their facilities.

Member Enrichment Grants are designated funds that support networking events and workshops for VASTA members. Please reach out to the Awards and Grants Committee to apply, and find more info on the Awards and Grants Overview on our website!

In celebration of VASTA’s 40th anniversary, and our ongoing commitment to our values of collaboration and access, we are proud to launch a new Mentorship Program in 2026. At VASTA, we believe in the power of long-standing members lifting the next generation of voice and speech professionals, providing access to resources, connections, and opportunities for all.

This inaugural program is designed as an 8-week, cohort-based experience connecting emerging professionals with established educators and practitioners across the field. Through guided conversations, structured topics, and meaningful exchange, participants will gain practical tools, industry insight, and a stronger sense of professional identity.

🗣️ To apply and learn more information, find the Mentorship Program under Member Resources on our website! 🗣️

Applications open: May 6, 2026
Applications due: May 31, 2026
Review of applications: June 2026
Acceptance notifications: July 1-15, 2026
Program dates: August – October 2026