Michael Dawthorne

Michael Dawthorne is the Director of Programs & Services Operations at Canadian Hearing Services. Michael has over 15 years of experience working in the social services sector, with a focus on rehabilitation counselling and services for individuals with acquired brain injuries and deafblindness.

Michael began their career as a Rehabilitation Counsellor at Dale Brain Injury Services in 2004, where they provided evidence-based services to clients to help them maximize their strengths and live healthy, meaningful lives. In their role as Team Lead at Independent Living Residences for the DeafBlind in Ontario (now DeafBlind Ontario Services), Michael provided Intervention services to individuals who are deafblind, acting as their eyes and ears to help them communicate effectively with the world around them.

Since joining Canadian Hearing Services in 2006, Michael has held various positions of increasing responsibility, culminating in their current role as Director of Programs & Services Operations. In this role, they are responsible for leading a team of over 60 staff across Ontario who provide support services to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Michael is a strong advocate for social justice and equal access to services for all. Michael is passionate about their work and committed to helping individuals with hearing loss or deafness live full and inclusive lives.

Michael Dawthorne's educational career includes a Bachelor of Arts from Western University, a Board of Governors Certificate and Dean Honours List from Lambton College, a Certificate in Labour Studies from Mohawk College, and a Certificate in Grief and Bereavement from King's University College. Michael also has a Diploma in Police Science (Law Enforcement and Protection) from the International Correspondence School (ICS Canada), as well as a Certification from PADI in Enriched Air (Nitrox) Diver, Digital Underwater Photography, and PADI Rescue Diver. Additionally, they are certified by the Divers Alert Network in Diving Emergency Management Provider, and by Scouts Canada in Woodbadge 1 - Rovers.

They work with Rex Banks - Director, Hearing Health, Quality, Global Partnerships & Infection Control Officer, Raymond D. King - VP, Business Development, and Craig Macisaac - CTO. Michael Dawthorne reports to Julia Dumanian, President & CEO.