Candela Communication

Professional Conduct and Nondiscrimination Policy

Candela Communication L.L.C. — ASHA Continuing Education Provider

1. Purpose

Candela Communication L.L.C. is committed to providing high-quality continuing education experiences for speech-language pathology and audiology professionals. This policy establishes expectations for professional conduct and affirms our commitment to creating learning environments that are safe, respectful, inclusive, and compliant with the standards of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Continuing Education Board (CEB).

2. Scope

This policy applies to all participants, instructors, staff, volunteers, contractors, and guests involved in ASHA CE courses offered by Candela Communication L.L.C., whether in-person, virtual, hybrid, or asynchronous formats.

3. Standards of Professional Conduct

All participants and representatives of Candela Communication L.L.C. are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that upholds professional and ethical behavior consistent with the values of ASHA, including:

  • Demonstrating respect, courtesy, and professionalism in all interactions.
  • Maintaining a learning environment free from disruptive, hostile, or inappropriate behavior.
  • Communicating in a constructive and respectful manner.
  • Respecting differences of opinion and professional perspectives.
  • Adhering to all course guidelines, schedules, and participation requirements.
  • Ensuring that all comments, questions, and discussions support an educational purpose.

Behavior that conflicts with these standards—including harassment, intimidation, discriminatory remarks, or repeated disruptions—may result in removal from the course without refund, at the discretion of Candela Communication L.L.C. when necessary.

4. Commitment to Nondiscrimination

Candela Communication L.L.C. prohibits discrimination in all its CE programs and activities. In accordance with ASHA’s Continuing Education Board requirements and applicable federal and state laws, no individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under any course or activity based on:

  • Race or ethnicity
  • Color
  • National origin or citizenship
  • Language background
  • Religion or creed
  • Sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression
  • Age
  • Disability
  • Marital or family status
  • Veteran or military status
  • Genetic information
  • Any other characteristic protected by law

We strive to ensure that all CE activities are welcoming, accessible, and inclusive for diverse learners and clinicians and support inclusive practices beyond our course experience.

5. Accessibility and Accommodations

Candela Communication L.L.C. is committed to providing equitable access for individuals with disabilities. Accommodation requests may include—but are not limited to—captioning, assistive listening devices, accessible materials, modified seating, and extended time for learning activities. Additional support and services may be available based on need when provided sufficient notice in advance.

Participants needing accommodations are encouraged to contact info@candelacommunication.com as early as possible, and preferably at least two weeks prior to the activity. All requests will be handled confidentially and in accordance with applicable laws.

6. Instructor Responsibilities

Instructors and presenters representing Candela Communication L.L.C. must:

  • Model professional, respectful communication and conduct.
  • Present information in an unbiased manner, in accordance with ASHA CEB standards.
  • Disclose financial and nonfinancial relationships relevant to course content.
  • Ensure that materials and examples are culturally respectful and aligned with current best practices.
  • Avoid any statements or behaviors that could be interpreted as discriminatory or harassing.

7. Reporting Concerns or Violations

Any participant who experiences, witnesses, or becomes aware of a potential violation of this policy is encouraged to report it promptly. Reports may be made to:

Emily Cunningham, M.A., CCC-SLP, Owner
emily@candelacommunication.com
 +1 (248) 239-7099

Reports will be reviewed objectively and confidentially. Candela Communication L.L.C. prohibits retaliation against any individual who reports a concern in good faith.

8. Corrective Actions

Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, corrective actions may include:

  • Warning or corrective coaching
  • Removal from the course or event
  • Restriction from future CE activities with Candela Communication L.L.C.
  • Notification to ASHA or other regulatory bodies when appropriate
  • Other measures deemed necessary to protect participants and ensure policy compliance

9. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually and updated as needed to remain consistent with ASHA Continuing Education Board requirements, professional standards, and best practices.