FARMINGTON HILLS, MICHIGAN – Attendees of the International Hearing Society (IHS) 2024 Conference & Expo, held in Louisville, Kentucky, embraced the conference theme of “Take the Lead” in record numbers, with attendance increasing by 20% and sponsor engagement rising by 25% compared to last year. The Kentucky Derby-themed event provided participants the opportunity to earn up to 14.5 continuing education credits, while also enjoying various networking and professional development opportunities at the Omni Louisville Hotel.
The Hearing Aid Association of Kentucky held its annual meeting in conjunction with the IHS event, and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear extended a warm welcome to attendees via video address.
The event opened with a Bluegrass Bash on Thursday evening and concluded with “A Night at the Races” on Saturday, where participants watched several races hosted by the Kentucky Derby Museum. Attendees enjoyed mint juleps, old fashioneds, and a derby-themed dinner while participating in a live auction that raised funds for IHS advocacy efforts. The event also featured a fascinator and derby hat-making session. IHS recognized its All-Star members who reached milestone anniversaries and awarded four outstanding professionals and an IHS chapter for their exemplary contributions to the profession.
A packed crowd gathered for the Industry Leadership Panel, where experts discussed managed care, the forthcoming release of Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 OTC feature, and trends in technology and business. Executives from Amplifon, Beltone, Oticon, Signia, Starkey, Unitron, Widex, and H-5 Group shared insights. The expo floor was vibrant, with 53 exhibitors offering bourbon trail experiences, complimentary headshots, ear mold impressions, and exclusive show specials.
One exhibitor remarked, “This IHS conference is not like other shows. What I mean by that is people are interested, they came to my booth ready with questions. It was a great time and experience.”
During the Annual IHS Membership Meeting, IHS volunteers were recognized for their contributions throughout the year. IHS President Patrick Kochanowski, BS, ACA, BC-HIS, passed the gavel to 2025-26 IHS President Michael Andreozzi, BS, BC-HIS, who will assume office on January 1, 2025. Andreozzi expressed gratitude and optimism for the future of IHS. Additional officers for 2025 were also announced: Leanne Polhill, BA, BC-HIS, as President-Elect; Wayne Morris, BC-HIS, as Treasurer; and Leslie Holden, BC-HIS, as Secretary. Members approved a change to the by-laws concerning inactive membership applications.
The 2025 IHS Conference & Expo is scheduled to take place in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the JW Marriott from September 18-20. Registration will open in 2025.
About the International Hearing Society
The International Hearing Society (IHS) is a global membership association representing hearing healthcare professionals, including hearing aid specialists. IHS members provide services such as hearing assessments, fitting and dispensing of hearing instruments, patient counseling, and aftercare. Established in 1951, IHS advocates for and promotes the interests of hearing healthcare professionals worldwide. For more information, visit www.ihsinfo.org.
Source: IHS
