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Paige Waddell, Au.D. Xi Delta - Radford University
Field Sales Representative, Starkey Hearing
Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most? Community
Can you share a brief 5-7 sentence biography about yourself, highlight key moments in your career that have shaped who you are today?
Paige has continued to walk truly in the light of the flame since graduating from Radford University in 2013. She fell in love with Delta Zeta’s philanthropy, helping the speech and hearing impaired, and decided to pursue a career serving these patients following her college years with the Xi Delta Chapter. Paige graduated from East Tennessee State University in 2017 with her Doctorate in Audiology. She worked for four years as a clinical audiologist at an Ear, Nose and Throat clinic assessing, diagnosing and treating patients with hearing loss and balance disorders. After working in direct patient care, Paige decided she wanted to have more of an impact on the audiology profession and started working for Starkey as an account executive for the state of Virginia — truly a full circle moment! She has been in this role for the past four years where her main responsibilities are educating hearing healthcare professionals on Starkey’s latest technologies, assisting with challenging hearing loss fittings and follow-ups and supporting professionals overall to help deliver the best hearing healthcare to their patients. Paige utilizes her leadership skills that she developed while serving on the Executive Board and as Chapter President of Xi Delta Chapter by serving as a mentor for new hires at Starkey to help guide them to becoming the best representative and resource they can be for hearing healthcare professionals and patients. She is also currently helping develop a revamped onboarding process for these new hires to ensure their success. Starkey’s values and philanthropic efforts are what drew Paige in from her time at Radford University until today. These include a positive attitude, commitment, integrity and selflessness, which Paige fully believes in and demonstrates herself. Starkey is dedicated to delivering the best hearing experience possible through the innovation of Starkey’s products, and the passion of their people. “Hear Better. Live Better.” is Starkey’s motto and Paige could not be more passionate about helping patients with hearing loss and the professionals who help deliver this gift. Hearing and the ability to communicate can sometimes be taken for granted, but we tend to forget how important hearing or other modes of communication are when it comes to building relationships and fully enjoying life.
Who has been an invaluable mentor for your professional career? What did you learn from this friendship?
My mentor, Ronnie, has been invaluable during my professional career. She took me under her wing as soon as I started at Starkey and our friendship has continued to blossom. Ronnie is always there when I need support, guidance or just someone to share my thoughts. Our friendship has grown past the work setting and I’m very grateful to have her in my life on the personal side as well.
How did you discover your passion and what opportunities have helped shape your curiosity for what you do?
I fell in love with Delta Zeta’s philanthropy and decided to pursue a career serving these patients following my college years with the Xi Delta Chapter. I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare and helping others, but learning more about the speech and hearing impaired community through Delta Zeta opened my eyes to this corner of the healthcare world. I am grateful every day to be able to help people hear their loved ones, feel included and live their lives to the fullest.
Looking ahead in your career, how do you envision continuing to incorporate generosity into your leadership style and professional endeavors?
I envision continuing to incorporate generosity into my future endeavors by prioritizing the growth and well-being of those around me. I plan to focus on supporting, mentoring and providing resources to help others advance in their careers, ensuring they have the tools and support they need to succeed as well as always feel valued. I also plan to continue to help the hearing healthcare providers in my territory stay up to speed on the latest technology. They will be able to provide their patients with the best, most sophisticated hearing technology so that these patients can continue to feel included, socialize and communicate easily with their loved ones. Ultimately, I hope I can create a ripple effect of positive impact.
How has your community helped you professionally? Is there a friend (or Delta Zeta sister) that has been behind you every step of the way on your career journey?
My core group of friends from the Xi Delta Chapter have stuck with me every step of the way throughout my career. They were there to support and encourage me through the challenging days of graduate school as well as when I was deciding to switch from direct patient care into an industry role. These women continue to build me up and are always there to celebrate my successes.
What does empowerment mean to you, and how have you worked to empower others in your career or personal life?
To me, empowerment means giving others the confidence and support to work towards their aspirations in life. I strive to create an environment where people feel capable, supported, loved and encouraged to reach their full potential. Whether this means lending a helping hand, a shoulder to cry on, advice or just having a fun time together and enjoying each other’s company, both in personal and professional relationships. I always want those around me to feel safe to express themselves and live authentically.
What does it mean to you to create an environment of belonging for others, and how do you carry that lesson into your personal and professional life?
To me, creating an environment of belonging means fostering a space where everyone feels seen, valued and respected for who they are, without fear of judgment or exclusion. Everyone should have the opportunity to contribute and thrive while feeling included. I work towards creating this sense of belonging by listening, supporting and celebrating others while also checking in to make sure they are doing okay in case they have not wanted to speak up or if they are struggling with something. By showing empathy and support, I always want to make others feel like they truly matter, and that I am a resource and support system for them.