#United States #Oklahoma City #cochlear implant #Audiology #Hearts for Hearing

New Leadership at Hearts for Hearing

In an exciting development for the Oklahoma hearing healthcare community, Molly Smeal, AuD, CCC-A, has taken on the role of Director of Adult Audiology at Hearts for Hearing. This organization is renowned for its commitment to providing exceptional hearing care to both children and adults. Dr. Smeal, who has an extensive background in audiology, previously served in clinical roles focused on adult diagnostics and auditory implantable devices at prominent institutions like the Cleveland Clinic and the University of Miami. Her experience includes completing a pioneering auditory implant fellowship and engaging in clinical research related to implantable hearing devices.



With Dr. Smeal's addition, Hearts for Hearing is set to expand its services and further enhance patient care across Oklahoma. Interim CEO Darcy Stowe expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled to have Molly Smeal join our team as we continue to grow our services to Oklahomans of all ages." This appointment comes shortly after the organization welcomed Dr. René Gifford, a distinguished figure in hearing research, as the Chief of Audiology and Research earlier this year, signaling a strong commitment to quality and innovation in hearing healthcare.

Dr. Smeal's motivation for joining Hearts for Hearing stems from the organization's remarkable dedication to excellent patient care. "I am excited to join Hearts for Hearing because of the extraordinary dedication and passion for excellent patient care in this program," she stated. Her previous leadership roles, which focused on clinical quality and efficiency, along with her publications and presentations at national and international levels, underpin her reputation in the field. Additionally, she is involved with the American Cochlear Implant Alliance, serving on its State Champions and Scientific Program Committee and co-chairing the upcoming 2026 ACIA conference in Chicago, IL.

Dr. Smeal's expertise in cochlear implants positions her as a valuable asset to the Hearts for Hearing team. “We are honored to welcome Dr. Molly Smeal to the Hearts for Hearing family,” remarked Dr. René Gifford. Her proven track record and innovative approach to hearing health are expected to bring tremendous benefits to the Oklahoma community, enhancing the lives of many individuals.

Hearts for Hearing stands out as a unique practice that offers patients comprehensive and high-level hearing healthcare within their community. The organization not only provides services for children and adults but also strives to support patients throughout every stage of their hearing journey. Dr. Smeal emphasized the importance of personalizing care, stating, “Hearts for Hearing is creating a model for hearing healthcare that meets patients where they are with their communication, providing hearing technology options across the continuum. I cannot wait to see what we will achieve!”

Founded in 2003, Hearts for Hearing has evolved from its initial mission of providing funding for first-time hearing aids for children with hearing loss in Oklahoma into one of the leading centers for hearing healthcare nationally. The organization prides itself on collaboratively pairing audiologists with speech-language pathologists to deliver optimal patient outcomes. Its state-of-the-art facilities include a Mobile Care Clinic, extending its outreach to various communities.

As Dr. Smeal steps into her role, she is already contributing to the organization’s mission of providing exceptional hearing healthcare solutions. Her passion, expertise, and commitment to patient care underscore the bright future ahead for Hearts for Hearing and the communities it serves. For more information about Hearts for Hearing, visit their website at www.heartsforhearing.org.