The UALR-UAMS Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology will commemorate Better Hearing and Speech Month at the sixth annual Jazz and Juleps benefit Thursday, May 28.

The event will take place from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion, 1800 Center St., Little Rock. Patrons will enjoy live music, hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and a live auction with KTHV’s Craig O’Neill.

Tickets are $50 and are available through the UALR Office of Development.

Proceeds from the event support the UALR-UAMS Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology and the Cathy and Jeff Shaneyfelt Student Scholarship fund.

The Shaneyfelts’ close connection to the department began nearly 30 years when their son was treated through the Preschool Language Enrichment Program at the clinic as a 3 year old.

Their perspective has given them the respect and understanding of the need for exemplary professionals to deliver exceptional treatment and care. They have served over the past five years on the Development Council and chaired last year’s Jazz and Juleps event.

Jeff Shaneyfelt is a UALR alumnus and managing partner of Little, Shaneyfelt, Marshall & Co. in Little Rock. Cathy Shaneyfelt also received two years of nursing education at UALR and finished training as a nurse at UAMS.

“Jeff and Cathy understand the value of UALR, the programs offered, and the institution’s impact,” said UALR Vice Chancellor for Advancement Bob Denman.

“A scholarship in their name is a fitting way to mark their continued support while assisting students in the Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology,” he added.

Fellow Development Council member and long-time supporter Beth Eaton stated that honoring the Shaneyfelts gives an opportunity to “recognize a family, who through courage, perseverance and determination, have given a voice to not only their son, but to all individuals with communication challenges.”

Eaton added that “everyone could use a Jeff and Cathy in our lives, and we are privileged they have allowed us to honor them in this way.”

The Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology is a joint program between UALR and UAMS. For tickets or additional information contact Leah Thorvilson at 501.683.7501 or lmthorvilson@ualr.edu.