One of Colleen’s earliest memories is touching the TV/stereo cabinet in order to feel the noise she couldn’t hear. After receiving her first pair of hearing devices at the age of four, Colleen’s life blossomed to include sounds she never knew existed. Determined to accomplish all of her goals, Colleen focused on her studies and earned several college degrees in various concentrations. “My hearing loss never stopped me from continuing my education,” she said. Currently, Colleen works as a trainer/installer for the CaptionCall telephone for the hearing impaired.

Colleen is a dedicated member of her Appleton, WI community. She spends many hours assisting her local homeless shelter, soup kitchen and Lion’s Club by doing everything from cooking to office work. She also spends time at the Appleton Area School District and was awarded the Volunteer Educator of the Year Award in 2007. “Without my hearing aids, I don’t think I would be able to accomplish any of this,” Colleen said.

Because of her perseverance, community activism and willingness to encourage others to address their hearing loss, Colleen is a HearStrong Champion.