Sade Falana: Communication Is Crucial for Patients

Sade Falana, M.S., CCC-SLP (’11, CHSOC; ’13, HUGS), is a highly skilled clinician who is trained in working with patients in several intensive care units – medical surgical, cardiovascular, neuroscience and neonatal. She is competent in MBSS (Modified Barium Swallow Studies) and FEES (Fiber Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing), studies speech language pathologists use to assess a patient’s ability to swallow. She also evaluates and treats patients with tracheostomies to implement the use of speaking valves, to promote their ability to communicate verbally and rehabilitate their swallow function.

Falana majored in Communications Sciences and Disorders for her undergraduate and graduate studies, graduating cum laude from the Cathy Hughes School of Communications in 2011 and from Howard University Graduate School in 2013.

Located in Atlanta, Georgia, Falana has pledged to make regular donations to the Cathy Hughes School of Communications. She spoke to Kelvin Childs at Beyond the Yard about her experiences at the University.

• Why did you choose to go to an HBCU? And why was Howard the one you chose?

I chose to attend Howard University for the opportunity to immerse myself in our culture and to develop knowledge and skills that would allow me to succeed in any industry. 

• What does Women’s History Month mean to you?

Women’s History Month is a time to recognize some of the many ways women have positively impacted the world. It is an opportunity to inspire young girls and women to use their power to make a difference in their communities. 

• How are you making history?

I am making history by striving to make a positive difference in every life I touch.

(This article appeared in the March 2023 issue of Beyond the Yard.)