The Callier Center for Communication Disorders has selected Dr. Kenneth Pugh, formerly of the University of Hawaii, as the new head of its clinical audiology division.

Audiologists at the nationally recognized UT Dallas Callier Center evaluate, diagnose and help develop treatments for people with hearing problems. They also dispense advanced hearing instruments to help individuals overcome difficulties related to permanent hearing loss.

Pugh formerly worked in the University of Hawaii’s John A. Burns School of Medicine, where he focused primarily on research related to early intervention and cochlear implants. He will lead 13 clinical audiologists at Callier.

“I’m excited about the idea of working with so many talented researchers and clinicians at Callier,” Pugh said. “Callier already has a broad, successful audiology program, but I think we can move it forward and make it even more important to the community.”

Pugh will serve as a clinical associate professor in the UT Dallas School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, which includes the Callier Center. As audiology head, he is responsible for maintaining state-of-the-art clinical services and protocols, contributing to the doctor of audiology program and collaborating on special projects to promote interdisciplinary activities throughout UT Dallas.

Research will continue to be a major focus for Pugh, though his position at Callier will involve extensive administrative and clinical duties. Among his chief areas of research interest are: electrophysiology, cochlear implants, hearing aids, traumatic brain injury, telehealth applications and technology. He also wants to develop strong collaborative research relationships with faculty from the School of Management and other programs around campus.

Pugh said he is particularly interested in education and is eager to increase access to assistive technologies for school-age children. Callier already has made a great deal of progress in raising awareness of emerging tools and resources. But Pugh said he wants to ensure that teachers and parents are up-to-date on what’s available to children with learning difficulties related to hearing deficits.

Dr. Thomas Campbell, executive director of Callier, said Pugh will be a valuable addition to the center because of his clinical experience and his dedication to expanding access to hearing services.

“As division head of audiology, Dr. Pugh is taking on a critical position,” Campbell said. “His extensive experience with clinical education, research and clinical care will be crucial to helping Callier succeed and reach out to greater numbers of individuals.”

After earning his bachelor of science degree and master of science at Colorado State University, he received his PhD in audiology and health services administration from the University of Florida. Pugh also holds the certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Pugh said he and his family are pleased about relocating to Dallas, but his move from the Aloha state has prompted more than a few quips from his new colleagues.

“I think it shows just how much I respect the reputation of the Callier Center,” Pugh said. “Not many offers could remove me from Hawaii.”