Speech, Language, Hearing Sciences (SLHS)

Faculty & Staff Spotlight

Ilana Oliff, MA, CCC-SLP
Director of Clinical Education

When did you start working on campus?

August 2, 2021!

What does your job entail?

Right now, I’m working on developing the Masters program for the SLHS department. I’ll be in charge of the clinical learning opportunities for our Masters students and will have the honor to serve as their clinical mentor once we have students in the program!

What do you enjoy most about your work?

The ability (and challenge) to make this program unique and a means to empower students to be successful SLPs. I can’t wait to get started mentoring students, I love mentoring and teaching. 

What advice would you give to students?  What is the most helpful advice you have received?

Breathe! You’ll get through this and come out the other side prepared, knowledgeable, and confident in your skills and abilities.  

Don’t forget who you are and what you care about. There are so many opportunities in this field to build on your strengths and passions and find ways to empower others without losing sight of who you are.

What do you like to do outside of campus?

I’m a very dedicated yogi, I like to play tennis, hike, cook and eat- I love trying new restaurants in Denver.

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

A veterinarian, a physical therapist, a teacher.

What is your motto or personal mantra?

Be present, listen with both ears and an open heart, and know that you are worthy!

What is the coolest (or most important) trend you see today?

Allyship. And not just posting on social media to look like an ally but truly working to lift-up our LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities and actively speaking out against white supremacy and systemic racism in our world. 

What was the last experience that made you a stronger person?

COVID-19 and the pandemic of course!

What makes MSU Denver great?

Its urban setting, its commitment to inclusion and diversity, the freedom I’ve been given to develop this program.

Career Prospects

Here’s where a B.A. in Speech, Language, Hearing Sciences might take you:

Click here to learn more about careers in SLHS.