Meet David Dean

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to David Dean. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

David , thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
This is a great question and one that is an ongoing topic with the field of speech-language pathology (SLP) and audiology.

Statistics show that the field of speech-language pathology & audiology is 92% Caucasian female, while the other 8% are minorities. Within the minorities, 3.6% are African-Americans, and African-American males are far less around .01%. The likelihood of seeing someone like myself, a black male SLP, is rare or what others call a “unicorn”.

Early into my career I did not understand the value & importance of what I represent in the field of speech-language pathology & audiology. However, as time went on and I began to have different experiences within the field and I quickly realized that I would have to work twice as hard as my other majority counterparts.

In the settings we occupy such as schools, skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, private practice, etc., there are not many individuals that look like me. In order to be effective and successful when you are the only person that looks like you in the room, requires a continuous mindset of optimism and confidence.

I found myself constantly having to prove myself when situations arose where others who do not look like me question my authority as a private practice owner, the decisions made for students when I worked at school districts, or even parents who inquire services and find out that it’s a black male SLP. These can take tole on someone like myself mentally and emotionally.

I had to start networking with other individuals in my field who were minorities and started to build a community. Surrounding yourself with others who look like you and can relate to daily work issues, helps with instilling the mindset of being successful even when the odds are against you. In addition, having the ambition, the will to not quit, and daily affirmations can help with positive outcomes.

I’m so grateful for my tribe that pours love and support into me. They keep me going even when my tank is almost on empty some days.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a first generation SLP in my family and the first male to obtain their Masters Degree. I have been in the field of speech-language pathology & audiology for over 8 years.

Originally from Charleston, South Carolina (born & raised), I had the pleasure of attending two Historically Black Colleges/Universities (HBCU) for my education. My undergraduate degree is from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University (AGGIE PRIDE!!!), while my gradate degree is from South Carolina State University (GO BULLDOGS!!!).

I own and operate a pediatric private practice called Key Communication Speech & Language Services, Inc, located in Ontario, California where it services the Inland Empire area. We are growing & expanding to the LA areas as well as adding on related services for occupational therapy, physical therapy, etc.

The most special thing about my practice is the impact we have on the families we service. We are helping children communicate as well as educating families and providing resources to improve quality of life. I couldn’t be more proud of my amazing team.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. God/Family – Without their support I don’t where I would be.

2. Persistence/Drive – Having the mindset to go all the way and see it through.

3. Always learning from others – You have to let go of ego because you do not know everything.

The advice I would give to those early in their journey is that these things take time to develop. Focus on every step of the journey; the lows, highs, wins, and losses. Those events will shape you into the person you will later become. It will not be easy, but what is success without adversity along the journey.

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was instill my faith. My faith has helped me get through some very tough obstacles and continues to guide me when fear arises. It taught me that even when my back is against the wall, all is not lost. I learned to have my moments of doubt but to not let it take over. I will always be grateful for their love, support, feedback, and discipline.

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