Becky Harvey, MA CCC-SLP

Began at Teachwell:

 2021

Why did you choose this field?

This question brings to mind one of my favorite quotes, "Language exerts hidden power, like the moon on the tides." I always knew I wanted a career that would impact the lives of others, specifically children, for the better. An extended family member had a great career as a speech-language pathologist and directed me to look into it. I was instantly hooked. Communication is essential in every aspect of life from newborns to the elderly. My passion is to ensure access to this basic human right for all of the individuals I work with.

What did you think you were going to be when you grew up?

A pediatrician. But there was a short time when I swore I was going to be a professional athlete (I'm only five foot - ha!)

What or who most inspires you?

My family. My parents were essential in guiding me and shaping so many of the core values I have. My siblings have always been my biggest cheerleaders. And now, my husband and 3 kids inspire me to be the best me that I can be, personally and professionally.

Why Teachwell?

Seeing the trends across the state and country regarding the shortage of speech-language pathologists, I was instantly drawn into how Teachwell is thinking forward and embracing the future.

What are you proudest of?

Professionally, receiving the South Dakota Speech-Language-Hearing Association's Volunteerism award in 2016 and 2022 as well as the award for Contributions in the Schools for Outstanding Clinical Practice and Leadership in South Dakota in 2020. Personally, being mom to my daughters, Quinnly and Chandler, and son, Otis. I love creating memories with them and my husband, Chris.

How do you hope to make a difference?

I hope to make a difference by showing the students I work with that I truly care about their successes and overall well-being. I want to create a snowball effect - if I make positive changes in their lives, I hope they will go on to make positive changes in the lives of others.

What lessons has your work life taught you?

To start each day with a clean slate and to believe that people do well when they can. And ultimately, anyone can learn, they just need someone to meet them at their level and help them grow.

What is your background? Experience, degrees, skills, etc.?

I graduated from the University of South Dakota with my BA in Communication Disorders in 2009. I received my MA in Speech-Language Pathology in 2011. From there, I worked for 10 years on site in rural public schools, providing speech services for students birth through 21. I worked as an adjunct instructor for the 2022-2023 school year at the University of South Dakota, teaching Diagnostics in Speech Language Pathology. I have been an adjunct instructor at Mitchell Technical College, teaching labs for their Speech-Language Pathology Assistants program since 2021.

People would be surprised to know that I . . .

am scared of heights but jumped off a 13 foot cliff into the ocean on my honeymoon.