Each year, graduate students in Chapman’s Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) program attend the California Speech-Language Hearing Association annual convention. Known as CSHA, the event provides Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) several days of professional development opportunities, research talks, and networking. For many convention goers, the Knowledge Bowl contest is a major highlight. The competition brings SLP grad students from all over California together for a fun-filled contest consisting of Praxis Test questions. For those who are unfamiliar, The Praxis Test is a standardized, comprehensive test that all graduate SLP students are required to pass in order to get certification and licensure through the American Speech-Language Association (ASHA). Winners earn free registration for the Praxis exam and major bragging rights!

Team Chapman consisted of grad students Morgan Harris, Andrew Schwagerl, Megan Winer, and Shirin Hakimi. After weeks of reviewing and studying core fundamentals in their curriculum, the team felt ready to take on the reigning champs, Cal State Fullerton. With packs of screaming fans and custom signs, CSUF definitely brought a lot of spirit to the 2019 contest. But it was Cal State Northridge and Chapman University who really brought the knowledge. In a major upset, Cal State Northridge took first place with Chapman at a very close second. Chapman placed third in 2018, making this our second consecutive win.

Placing in the Knowledge Bowl is a major achievement. Second place is incredibly impressive considering the tough competition by top-ranking programs from across the state. The win allowed  Chapman to be recognized as a major force in Speech-Language education. With hard work and a bit of luck, we’re hoping Chapman will bring the heat in 2020 and take home the cup.

Congratulations to the CSD program for this exciting win!