We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Latisha Porter. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Latisha below.
Hi Latisha, thanks for joining us today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?
A Legacy of Resilience: How My Grandmother and Father Taught Me to Embrace Life with Hearing Loss
Life often presents us with challenges that test our strength and resilience. For me, the journey began tragically early, as my mother passed away when I was just six weeks old. Left behind were my father, six small children, and the daunting task of rebuilding our lives without her. Amid this heartache, my grandmother and father emerged as pillars of strength, their actions and decisions shaping my understanding of resilience, self-advocacy, and the importance of addressing hearing loss.
A Grandmother’s Unwavering Dedication
My grandmother retired in her 50s from working at a mill in the 1970s, a time when women’s roles were often confined to the home. She made the courageous decision to leave her job to care for me and my siblings. Despite facing her own hearing loss, she never let it hinder her dedication to our family. I vividly remember her saving about $500 to purchase hearing aids, a significant sum at the time. She placed them on layaway, a testament to her determination to improve her quality of life.
Her hearing loss was never a big deal to her. She advocated for herself, ensuring that we understood her needs. Whether in person or over the phone, she had no problem asking us to repeat ourselves. This self-advocacy taught me the importance of being vocal about my needs and not allowing obstacles to define me.
A Father’s Pride and Perseverance
Similarly, my father, an Army veteran, faced his own hearing challenges. Diagnosed with hearing loss in the 1970s, he faithfully utilized his veterans’ benefits to secure hearing aids. His pride in serving his country extended to his determination to live well with hearing loss. Just like my grandmother, he wore his hearing aids faithfully, demonstrating that addressing one’s needs is a crucial step toward living a fulfilling life.
Remarkably, my father turned 90 this June and still faithfully wears his hearing aids. His commitment to embracing his social life despite his hearing loss showed me that challenges need not limit our experiences. He and my grandmother remained active, socially engaged, and lived life to the fullest, reinforcing the belief that hearing loss is not a barrier to happiness and participation in the community.
Lessons Learned and a Delayed Diagnosis
Despite being born with sensorineural hearing loss, my condition wasn’t detected until I was 19 years old. Reflecting on my childhood, I realize how much I learned from my grandmother and father’s experiences. They taught me the importance of advocating for oneself, the value of seeking and utilizing resources, and the significance of living an active, engaged life despite any challenges.
Their stories are a powerful reminder that resilience is built through everyday actions and decisions. My grandmother’s meticulous saving for hearing aids and my father’s utilization of veterans’ benefits are testaments to their unwavering commitment to improving their lives and, by extension, ours. Their ability to embrace life with hearing loss has been a profound source of inspiration for me.
A Tribute to Their Legacy
Today, I carry their legacy with me. Their resilience, advocacy, and active engagement in life continue to guide my path. I am grateful for the lessons they imparted, for they have shaped me into who I am today. Their stories are not just memories; they are beacons of hope and strength that illuminate the way forward.
In sharing their journey, I hope to inspire others facing similar challenges. Hearing loss is not the end of the road; it’s a part of the journey. Embrace it, advocate for your needs, and live life fully. That’s the legacy my grandmother and father left behind, and it’s one I am proud to carry forward.
Latisha, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Empowering the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Community: A Journey of Advocacy, Research, and Inspiration
Hello, my name is Latisha M. Porter-Vaughn, and I am a passionate advocate for deaf and hard-of-hearing youth and college students. My life’s work is dedicated to enhancing the educational experiences and work readiness of these students, driven by my own experiences as a hard-of-hearing individual. Through my research, advocacy, and creative endeavors, I aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who, like me, face unique challenges due to hearing loss.
My Journey into Advocacy and Research
My path into this field was deeply personal and transformative. Diagnosed with sensorineural hearing loss at the age of 19, after moving to live with my sister, I faced a series of realizations that reshaped my life. Although my hearing loss wasn’t identified until adulthood, signs were present during my school years. Teachers and the school nurse noticed my academic struggles and recommended annual audiologist visits. Despite these efforts, I was never explicitly told about my hearing loss, which was a common oversight at the time.
In high school, I opted for a vocational training program, believing college would be unattainable without proper accommodations. This decision, rooted in a lack of understanding about my hearing needs, ultimately fueled my determination to achieve academic success later in life. I persevered, learning about self-advocacy and the importance of accommodations. This journey led me to complete my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 2008, a Master of Arts in Strategic Communications in 2013, and a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership & Development from the University of Arizona Global Campus in 2022, with a dissertation titled “Perceptions of College Students’ Work Readiness Preparation.” Achieving these milestones over 30 years is a testament to my unwavering belief in my dreams, supported by faith, prayer, hard work, resilience, and hope.
Professional Accomplishments and Advocacy
I formerly worked as a Research Associate at the National Deaf Center, where my dissertation focused on the educational challenges faced by deaf and hard-of-hearing students. This research highlighted the unique obstacles these students encounter and the strategies that have proven effective and ineffective in overcoming them. My work offers a comprehensive analysis informed directly by the students’ experiences, contributing valuable insights to the field.
In recognition of my efforts, I am honored to be the 2025 Oticon Focus on People Hearing Loss Champion, an accolade that celebrates individuals making a positive impact in the hearing loss community. Additionally, I have been a Deaf Mentor with the Span Parent Advocacy Network and hold leadership roles within the Hearing Loss Association of America New Jersey State Association. Through these roles, I develop programs, provide resources, and advocate for policies that enhance accessibility and opportunities for individuals with hearing loss.
Creative Works and Publications
Beyond my advocacy and research, I am also a self-published author. I have written three books about hearing loss and am currently working on a children’s series aimed at deaf and hard-of-hearing children. My writing endeavors aim to inspire and support young readers by providing stories that reflect their experiences and challenges. I believe that representation is crucial, and through my books, I strive to offer characters and narratives that resonate with and empower the next generation.
Recognition and Impact
Over the years, I have been fortunate to receive several accolades that recognize my contributions to the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. These include the 2017 HearStrong Champion Award and the Buggs Foundation 2014 Amistad Johnnie Lacy Award. Furthermore, I have co-authored a publication for the Journal of African American Women and Girls in Education (JAAWGE), set to be published later this year.
My 34-year tenure as a paralegal at Seton Hall Law School has also been a significant part of my journey. Through my role there, I have honed my skills in legal support and contributed to the law school’s operations, further extending my impact within the educational sphere.
What Sets Me Apart
What sets me apart in this field is not just my personal experience with hearing loss but my holistic approach to advocacy and support. I combine rigorous academic research with practical, real-world applications, ensuring that my work is both evidence-based and deeply empathetic. My dedication to self-advocacy, continuous learning, and resilience reflects in every project I undertake.
Final Thoughts
I am most proud of my resilience and the ability to turn personal challenges into opportunities for advocacy and change. My life’s work is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of supporting and uplifting those facing similar challenges. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my commitment to enhancing the lives of deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals is unwavering. Through my research, advocacy, and creative works, I strive to make a lasting impact, one that empowers individuals to embrace their potential and live fulfilling, connected lives.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
Hearing Loss and My Creative Journey
Hearing loss has profoundly shaped my creative journey, driving me to turn challenges into opportunities for advocacy, self-expression, and empowerment. My own struggles with hearing loss began early in life, but it wasn’t until I was 19 that I received a diagnosis. This late discovery was a turning point, prompting me to understand, accept, and advocate for my needs. Throughout my educational journey, I encountered numerous hurdles due to inadequate support and accommodations. These experiences ignited a passion within me to address the systemic issues that prevent deaf and hard-of-hearing students from succeeding in higher education.
Due to a lack of employment opportunities and the persistent barriers that deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals face in society, I have found solace and purpose in writing and research. These endeavors not only allow me to share my experiences but also to advocate for those who face similar obstacles. Many deaf and hard-of-hearing students enroll in college with high hopes, yet a significant number struggle to complete their studies. The lack of proper accommodations, resources, and understanding from educators and institutions often hinders their progress. This reality drives me to create resources and stories that reflect their experiences, offering solutions and hope.
The scarcity of opportunities in various aspects of society for individuals with hearing loss has fueled my determination to address these gaps through my work. By writing books that feature deaf and hard-of-hearing characters, I aim to highlight their strengths and potential, providing young readers with role models they can relate to. My creative works are not just stories; they are tools for education and empowerment, helping to break down barriers and foster a more inclusive society.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Sharing My Journey on Social Media
Recognizing the power of social media, I began sharing my experiences, stories, and resources online. Social media platforms became my stage to advocate for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, connect with others facing similar challenges, and raise awareness about the importance of accessibility and inclusion. Through consistent storytelling and sharing valuable information, I have been able to build a large and engaged audience. You can’t be afraid to celebrate you, your accomplishments or to position yourself.
Social media has allowed me to:
Connect with a Global Audience: By sharing my journey and insights, I have connected with individuals from around the world who are also navigating life with hearing loss. This global community provides support, shares resources, and advocates for change collectively.
Raise Awareness: My posts about the challenges and triumphs of living with hearing loss have helped raise awareness about the issues faced by the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. This increased visibility is crucial for driving social change and promoting inclusivity.
Provide Resources: Sharing resources, such as information about hearing aids, accessibility tools, and educational accommodations, has been a vital part of my social media presence. These resources empower individuals with hearing loss to advocate for themselves and improve their quality of life.
Inspire and Empower: Through my stories and creative works, I aim to inspire others to embrace their potential despite the challenges they face. My audience includes not only individuals with hearing loss but also educators, employers, and policymakers who can make a difference in their communities.
Building an Engaged Community
Building a large and engaged audience on social media requires authenticity, consistency, and a commitment to providing value. Here are some strategies that have helped me grow my audience:
Authentic Storytelling: Sharing personal stories and experiences in an authentic way resonates with people. My followers appreciate the honesty and vulnerability in my posts, which helps build trust and connection.
Consistent Posting: Regularly posting content keeps the audience engaged and informed. Whether it’s a new blog post, a resource guide, or a personal update, consistency is key to maintaining interest and engagement.
Engagement and Interaction: Responding to comments, messages, and questions from followers fosters a sense of community and encourages more interaction. Engaging with my audience shows that I value their input and experiences.
Providing Value: Offering valuable information, resources, and insights makes my social media presence a go-to source for individuals seeking support and guidance. Providing value builds credibility and encourages followers to share my content with others.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: hearing_gains, portermia829
- Facebook: Latisha Porter-Vaughn
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/latisha-porter-vaughn-ph-d-50a03223/
Image Credits
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