Student Saturday
CAA knows students are the future of audiology, and, as the primary organization advocating for our profession in California’s legislature, we want you to engage, network, and get involved early. That’s why we are offering a special program at the 2026 Annual Conference focused on students and their needs.
Attend an afternoon of dedicated programming just for students, featuring engaging sessions, valuable insights, and meaningful opportunities to connect with peers, mentors, and leaders in the field. Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge, explore career paths, or start building your professional network, Student Saturday is designed with you in mind.
Student Saturday will take place from 1:30 -5:00 PM on Saturday, September 26, 2026 and run concurrently with the General Session.
Pre-registration for Student Saturday is required and space is limited. Students may select Student Saturday participation during Annual Conference registration.
Thank you to our incredible Student Saturday sponsors!
Their support helps create a meaningful opportunity for audiology students to learn, connect, and grow as they take the next steps in their professional journey.
1:30 - 2:30 PM
CAPD is for Everyone: Why the Audiogram Alone is Not Enough
Maria K. Abramson, Au.D., CCC-A, FAAA
2:30 - 3:15 PM
Unexpected Aud-ities: A Q&A Panel Discussion
3:15 - 3:30 PM
Manufacturer Presentation
3:30 - 3:45 PM
Break
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Manufacturer Presentation
4:00 - 5:00 PM
Say What? Real-World Strategies for Improving Patient Clarity
Jo Powner, Au.D., CCC-A
Maria K. Abramson, Au.D., CCC-A, FAAA
Hear Now
Dr. Abramson has devoted her career to identifying patients with CAPD and ameliorating their deficits. She has been recognized as an expert in auditory processing by the State of California. She is the author of the Pitch Discrimination Test , the Basic Auditory Training (BAT) program and, in 2018, published a consensus regarding audiologists' position on CAPD. Dr. Abramson has presented on CAPD for AAA, TACA, and many school districts. She is an adjunct lecturer at Chapman University and San Jose State University. Dr. Abramson practices at Hear Now in San Juan Capistrano.
Jo Powner, Au.D., CCC-A
Marin Health ENT and Allergy Santa Rosa
Dr. Powner is a patient-centered clinical audiologist experienced in counseling patients for noise-induced hearing loss, musicianship with hearing aids, and tinnitus.
They are dedicated to education and advocacy, committed to improving hearing health outcomes across the Northern California region. Outside of clinical practice, Jo maintains a dynamic creative career as an author, musician, and artist, bringing a holistic and human perspective to patient experiences.